tweed valley take aways

Take home a little piece of the Tweed Valley with gifts and produce inspired by the local area and created by the people who live here.

 

Tweed Valley locals love their food…and drink! Microbreweries have been a feature around these parts since Traquair Brewery began producing craft beers in the 1700s. Tempest is a more recent addition, and along with distillers including Rule Gin and The Tweed Valley Distilling Co, there’s no shortage of local tipples to enjoy long after your visit. The Hub on the High Street and Villeneuve Wines are wonderful spots to pick up a bottle or two, or if you have the time, you can even try crafting your own bespoke gin at Peebles Hydro Hotel’s 1881 Gin School & Distillery.

For a sweet reminder of your stay, call in at Cocoa Black, home of World Chocolate Master, Ruth Hinks. Along with freshly made cakes and patisserie, this elegant café stocks a tantalising selection of chocolates and sweet treats to take away with you (or share…if you’re feeling generous!). And if you’re looking for a picnic lunch to enjoy on the way home, Forsyth’s pies are legendary across the valley and beyond.

Hiking, biking, running, kayaking… there’s no end to the outdoor adventures on offer to visitors to the valley. And there’s also no reason for the adventures to end when you leave. With the right clothing and equipment, you can take to the hills, forests and rivers elsewhere with ease. Stylish outdoor and active wear are what local clothing brand, Findra, does best. Created by local Scottish fashion designer, Alex Feechan, Findra products are inspired by the cultural heritage of the area, as well as being tried and tested in the Tweed Valley. So you know when you wear them you’ll be ready for adventure, whatever the weather.

Got the biking bug during your stay? There are plenty of local guidebooks, maps and cycling accessories to be snapped up at bike shops across the valley. Vouchers for uplift days, guiding and coaching are a great take away, especially when they guarantee a return visit! Keep an eye out for locally produced Wee Cog saddle bags or explore the bike-themed prints at Robert Smail’s Printing Works and The Framing Gallery – perfect souvenirs from your time spent exploring the area on two wheels.  

And if discovering local artists and crafters is a highlight of your travels, then you’ll be spoilt for choice when choosing a piece of the Tweed Valley to take home. The area is bursting with gorgeous galleries and gift shops! Discover postcards and paintings, photographs, ceramics and prints all inspired by the surrounding landscape and wildlife. Moy Mackay Gallery in Peebles exhibits work from some of Scotland’s finest artists, as well as Moy’s own unique ‘felted paintings’ that capture the colours and essence of the Scottish Borders in all their glory. There are also joys to be had at the likes of Solo Gallery in Innerleithen, plus Tweed Art and The Three Fishes, both in Peebles.

Your own special memories are, of course, the greatest take away from your time in the valley. But if you do find yourself craving this little corner of the world after you’ve left, follow us on Facebook and Instagram for a regular fix of Tweed Valley news…and inspirational pictures.

Further info

Looking for other activities and experiences while here in the Tweed Valley? Take a look at our See & Do section for lots more ideas. 

Images: Ian Linton Photography