7 of the best historical places to visit in the Scottish Borders
How many of these have you visited?
The Borders is naturally steeped in vast historical importance due to its location. It has been the site of many a battle and imprisonment, not to mention the home of huge power. Visitors come from far and wide to see the very place frequented by Royals and other key historical figures, and local residents are just as enthralled by these sites.
Here is a list of our favourite historical attractions in the Borders
Melrose Abbey
Melrose Abbey was just as grand as its name suggests, and the surviving ruins are simply incredible. The Abbey was a highly-prized jewel from its first use in 1136, it suffered from invasion and was re-built in spectacular style. Today, it stands as the most famous ruin in Scotland.
The Abbey building was notable not only for its opulence, but also the unusual sculptures adorning it, including a now-famous pig playing the bagpipes, naturally! Perhaps its most special treasure however, is the remains of the heart of none other than Robert The Bruce. It is believed he chose the Abbey as the burial place for his heart, as he loved this place so much. You can see this in the chapel, marked with a carved stone plaque.
There are many objects found in the Abbey which have been preserved and are displayed in the Commentator's House Museum.
Mary Queen of Scots House
Jedburgh is the home of this incredible treasure trove devoted to Scotland's famous Queen. The house is a fortified 16th century building set in beautiful gardens. It is uncertain how much time Mary spent here, however, since 1987 it has been open as a museum to Queen Mary.
It is full of wonderful finds, rich paintings, textiles, and various objects. Even more intimate however, it is also home to some of Mary's own jewellery and her personal letters. This is a veritable Aladdin's cave, and it is impossible not to be mesmerised by the wealth of history stored here. Far from being merely a collection of artefacts, this house tells a story, a tragic story with a murdered husband, a secretary who was also killed and finally the execution of a Queen.
Abbotsford House
Abbotsford House is synonymous with Sir Walter Scott. The hugely famous author and poet acquired the house in 1811 and transformed the site whilst he simultaneously transformed the landscape of literature. You can now visit the incredible museum devoted to the man who wrote the Waverley novels as well as part of Scotland's history.
There are items housed in the visitor centre which will be particularly mesmerising for fans of literature, including a visitor book with the signatures of none other than Charlotte Brontë, Charles Dickens and Oscar Wilde.
The estate itself is wonderful for a meander with its walled garden and for families there is a play trail to enjoy. Even the café is historical, it is named after Edie Ochiltree; a character in Scott's The Antiquary.
Thirlestane Castle
Thirlestane Castle is a breath-taking site in the Borders and is one of Scotland's oldest inhabited castles. The history of this incredible building put together with its carefully-preserved condition makes this a must-see site in the Borders. It is open throughout the Summer months and is a popular attraction for visitors and locals alike.
The majestic building just outside Lauder, has been a home since the 16th century and is naturally encapsulated in rich history. It began as part of a defence from the South, then was re-developed and extended. Thirlestane Castle has been an integral part of the Maitland family who, themselves are steeped in important history. They came to Scotland in 1066 with William the Conqueror and married into the Thirlestane family, acquiring the wealth this brought. The Maitlands were incredibly powerful in their own right, having held positions such as Secretary to Mary, Queen of Scots and Lord Chancellor of Scotland.
Thirlestane Castle is a rarity; an inhabited castle rich in history and overflowing with beauty.
Floors Castle
Floors Castle is a magnificent seat in the Borders and is simply stunning. This castle has so much to offer and is a great destination for a day out with something for everyone.
Built in 1721, the house and estate has developed and grown over the centuries.
The grounds are packed with sights, including a breath-taking Victorian Walled Garden, glasshouses, and a Millennium Garden. Amble through woodland, or meander along the river and if you have a bike, it makes for a fantastic cycle trail too.
Children will love to explore the grounds and there is a fantastic child-friendly tour of the castle available. If that doesn't entertain them, then there is an adventure playground complete with a flying fox and monkey bars to keep them happy. With benches around the gardens, take a break whenever you fancy, have a seat and simply marvel at the beauty on our doorstep.
Finish off your visit with a snack, with a choice of two cafés then pick up a traditional souvenir of your perfect day in the gift shop.
Neidpath Castle
Just outside Peebles and surveying the River Tweed stands the amazing Neidpath Castle, owned by the Wemyss family. This 14th century tower, high up on the river bank boasts an L-shape design and has a great deal to offer visitors. Guided tours can be arranged throughout the year, by appointment and you can even take tea in the Great Hall.
Marvel at the dungeon or admire the batiks regaling tales of Queen Mary who stayed here.
Jedburgh Castle Jail
Jedburgh Castle Jail is an attraction with a real difference! It is as grand and magnificent as the other incredible sites on this list and steeped in the same extensive history. However, the tales it tells are from the perspective of its imprisoned residents in the 1820s.
You can tour the jail and still see the original cells which tell stories of the prisoners and how they lived here. It is alleged that this was deemed Scotland’s most comfortable jail.
The attraction has more to offer than its criminal history as it also houses an incredible and informative museum. Detailing the history of the Royal Burgh of Jedburgh, the museum is full of information on Jedburgh’s industries, traditions and famous residents. Some of these residents include astronomer James Veitch and Mary Somerville; the mathematician.
Children can enjoy an interactive lesson in history with opportunities for dressing up and enjoying hands-on activities. With so much to see and do, it is a great day out, but watch out; the building is reported to have many ghostly residents too.
Listen to Greatest Hits Radio on the free Rayo app, online or on your DAB digital radio. You can also listen on your smart speaker by saying “Play Greatest Hits Radio”.