3 Days Exploring Great Houses and Gorgeous Views by Public Transport

Nestled in the Scottish Borders countryside, Stow’s blend of historic streets, countryside views, and easy public transport connections make it an ideal starting point for exploring the region. See historic buildings like the Auld Kirk and graveyard, the packhorse bridge across Gala Water and find out more about the village’s links with Scotland’s witch hunts.

The picturesque village is also home to the Wedale Bookshop, which specialises in Scottish history, folklore, witchcraft, fiction and children’s books. Explore local stories further, or pick up locally-made gifts and more. Those keen to get active will also find advice on local walking and cycling routes.

Enjoy scenic walks and cycling routes around Stow and across the surrounding moorland towards Lauder. Stow Station House is home to the local e-bike hub: A variety of e-bikes is available for day hire. Alternatively, hop back on the train to continue to the next stop – Galashiels.

The Great Tapestry of Scotland is Europe’s largest tapestry located in Galashiels, the historic textile heartland of the Scottish Borders. The visitor centre has been purpose-built to house The Great Tapestry of Scotland, which was created and hand stitched by 1,000 people from across the country and comprises 160 panels. The Tapestry tells a compelling visual account of Scotland’s history, heritage and culture from its formation to present day.

Discover the story of the River Tweed’s famous salmon and their impact on the people, culture, and economy of the Scottish Borders over the last 8,000 years. The museum highlights the River Tweed’s central role in the history of salmon fishing with rod, line, and fly, tracing how the sport developed over the past 250 years.

Begin in the heart of Kelso Square and wander through Shedden Park out of town. Proceed past the houses before slipping through a gate onto a quiet grassy path, with the Golf Course on one side and the historic Racecourse on the other.

Looping back, the route passes Poynder Park, home of Kelso Rugby Club, and meanders towards the River Tweed. Here the Cobby Riverside Walk offers one of the highlights: wide views of the river, Kelso North Parish Church spire, and traces of the Abbey’s old mill.

The walk finishes back in the Square, giving you a perfect blend of history, green spaces, and riverside charm — all within an easy circuit.

The Junction Pool is where the River Tweed and River Teviot meet, creating a picturesque and historic riverside spot in the heart of the Scottish Borders. Famous for its salmon fishing heritage, the pool has been a centre of angling for centuries and offers scenic walking paths along the river with views of Kelso’s iconic bridges and the surrounding countryside.

Floors Castle is not only a Duke’s family home, but also the heart of the diverse Roxburghe Estates in a beautiful part of the Scottish Borders. Visit the stunning castle and see for yourself the collection of fine art, porcelain, newly restored tapestries, grand rooms and superb views. There are woodland and riverside walks, formal and informal gardens and lots of lovely places to walk the dog, or to sit and watch the world go by. There is also the chance to sample fantastic local produce at the Terrace and Courtyard Cafes.

Experience one of Scotland’s finest stately homes. This outstanding Georgian mansion house is a unique example of Adam design, built in two stages – the two wings in 1725 by Scottish architect William Adam and the large central block completed in 1778 by his more famous son, Robert. Some say this is one of Robert Adam’s finest works, complemented by the fine art, period furniture, china and embroidery collections within.

Its idyllic location does not disappoint, set in acres of parkland and formal gardens with breathtaking views over the lawns and ornamental lake to the Cheviot Hills. Take time to enjoy the lakeside and woodland walks, the unusual Dutch-style thatched cottage nestled within the North Parkland , children’s play area, cafe, picnic spots, wildlife, and outdoor contemporary art exhibition.

A typical Scottish Borders village, Gordon is steeped in history and surrounded by rolling countryside. Just outside the village sits the atmospheric Greenknowe Tower, a 16th-century fortified tower that offers a glimpse into the region’s past. Though the tower bears the date of 1581, it is possible that this was previously the site of Clan Gordon’s first Scottish castle .

Coldstream Museum expands on the history of the region, with permanent displays featuring artefacts on loan from the Coldstream Guards, the Provost’s Robes and Chain of Office. Follow the story of the Coldstream Regiment of Foot Guards at home and away, from the 17th century to the present day.
The museum is located in the centre of Coldstream in the Market Square – the site of General Monck’s headquarters before he marched on London in 1660 to restore the Stuart Monarchy. Coldstream sits on the Border between Scotland and England over the River Tweed and is most famous for being the home of the Coldstream Guards regiment in the British Army. Its location loans the town a rich military history, from Edward I’s invasion of Scotland in 1296 to the Wars of Scottish Independence to the Battle of Flodden.

Start your journey in the centre of Coldstream for a walk along the River Tweed and take the chance to hop over the border to England across Coldstream Bridge. Or start making your way slightly north, to embark on the walking route to the Hirsel Estate.

The parklands of the Hirsel Estate span over 1,000 acres of woodlands and fields. Explore the signposted estate trails, ranging form hard-surfaced paths to sheltered woodland walks. Changing with the seasons, there are recommended routes to view snowdrops, rhododendrons, and autumnal colour, and it is easy to reach the estate from the centre of Coldstream. Keep an eye out for the resident herd of Highland Cattle.

Galashiels sits at the heart of the Scottish Borders with rich history and culture. Before you board the train back north, take some time to explore more of the town. It’s a creative hub with a range of festival, such as the annual Braw Lads’ Gathering, and the history of the town is told at Old Gala House.