Rural Escapes in the South of Scotland

Experience the essence of rural life with a farm stay in the South of Scotland. Immerse yourself in the daily rhythms of a working farm or simply revel in the tranquility of the countryside. You can find a hands-on farm experience or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of a charming countryside getaway. Interact with farm animals or join outdoor pursuits such as walking and horse riding. Whatever it is you’re looking for, lambs leaping across fields, fresh produce straight to your table or perhaps a gentle stroll along fields and meadows, you will find it here! Have a look at our pick of some of the best rural and farm escapes in the South of Scotland. 

Airhouses

Where: Lauder

Enjoy the country air with a decidedly luxurious twist. Winner of the 2023 Scottish Thistle Awards for Best Luxury Experience, Airhouses delivers on many fronts. From stunning views to hot tubs, you won’t want for anything when you stay at these award-winning self-catering lodges on the outskirts of Lauder. Even better, a merry band of farm animals is waiting to greet you. Meet the resident Shetland Ponies, pet pigs Snuffle and Truffle and many others. And with over 600 acres of farmland, rich in wildlife and walks, you’ll feel miles away from the hustle and bustle in no time.

Bengairn Country Lodges

Where: Castle Douglas

Set on the banks of the beautiful Bengairn Loch, Bengairn Country Lodges consist of three luxury cottages with gorgeous views of wildlife and farm life all around. Guests are welcome to visit the farm where there are seasonal activities such as pet lamb feeding or even sheep shearing. Call ahead and a sheepdog demonstration could be organised too! The cottages have all the mod-cons inside and out – there’s a hot tub, outdoor dining area, gas barbecue and fire pit. Dogs are welcome in two of the cottages, cyclists are catered for with secure bike storage for cyclists and there is an electric car charging point.

Bairnkine Cottages

Where: Jedburgh

Just south of Jedburgh, and with magnificent views of the Cheviots, you will find Wild Rose and Owl Cottage. Bairnkine Farm’s two cottages offer a cosy getaway to a working sheep farm, nestled in the rolling Borders countryside. Spot local wildlife including deer, buzzards and badgers or head off to explore the hills. 

Grobdale of Girthon

Where: Castle Douglas

Choose one of three sumptious country cottages on this small upland farm and you’ll see a happy relaxed farm with outdoor reared livestock which include, Herdwick sheep, Tamworth pigs and a variety of ducks, hens and horses. After a day of exploring and perhaps an evening of star gazing on the edge of the Dark Sky Park you can sink into a comfy bed confident of a good night’s sleep. Grobdale of Girthon‘s cottages offer everything you should expect in modern self-catering cottages – well-equipped kitchens and luxurious bath rooms with log burning stoves inside and firepits and outdoor seating with amazing views.

Eden Holiday Hideaways

Where: Kelso

Take time out and relax at Eden Holidays Hideaways near Kelso. The contemporary chalets, fully equipped with wood-fired hot tubs, enjoy stunning, panoramic views across the Borders countryside and to the Cheviot Hills. It’s the perfect location for those looking to simply relish the peace and quiet of the surrounding fields and woodlands.

Ross Bay Retreat

Where: Kirkcudbright

A stay at Ross Bay Retreat offers a peak into life on a working farm but also glorious coastal views and walks. Ideally situated near Kirkcudbright this is the perfect blend of get away from it all while being close to local ammenities and activities. With the seafront literally a stone’s throw away, you can set off for a beachcomb any time and enjoy the sunset views over the Solway Coast as your day of exploring comes to a close. It’s possible to meet the animals and see how life runs on a farm, or you can watch from a distance as you relax in yoru comfy cottage.

Hendersyde

Where: Kelso

A traditional terrace of farm cottages in a peaceful spot, at the end of their own lane. Surrounded by trails, wildlife & beautiful views over The Tweed Valley, you can relax in the peace & quiet of the countryside. A walk across the Hendersyde farm might bring a glimpse of an otter by the waterside or a deer wandering between the woods. Venture down to the River Tweed and you might catch the glistening flash of a salmon. Nest boxes are popular homes for barn owls which you can expect to see hunting at dawn and dusk.

Kirkwood – Real Farm Holidays

Where: Lockerbie

If you want your rural retreat to be all about reconnecting with nature and the land, this is the stay for you! Guests have the option to feed lambs, sheep, cattle, pigs, or chickens, collect eggs, drive tractors and quad bikes and even Shear-a-Sheep. The cottages are set within the estate which consists of lush pastures and 100 acres of mature oak woods. This makes for idyllic walking (yes, dogs are welcome) as well as some super wildlife spotting and, if the season is right, some foraging!