Travelling through the South of Scotland by car is the perfect way to explore the region and discover hidden gems off the beaten track.  

Zip along main roads directly to your destination in comfort or follow one of our iconic driving routes during your visit. Whichever you choose, our helpful guide will tell you everything you need to get started. 

Getting here

From the North

If coming from the North-east, head towards Queensferry Crossing before following signs to the Edinburgh Bypass (A720). From there, you can either: 

  • Follow the A68 south, passing through Lauder, Earlston, St Boswells and Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders 
  • Follow the A7 south to towns such as Stow, Galashiels and Selkirk. 
  • Follow the A1 to travel south to the Borders via Scotland’s east coast.  

If heading for Dumfries & Galloway, follow signs to the A70 towards Moffat, then follow local routes to Dumfries.  

Alternatively, those coming from the North-west can follow signs to Glasgow, then join the M74. Follow the motorway south along the River Clyde, through South Lanarkshire. The route continues into Dumfries & Galloway in the South of Scotland as the M74 becomes the A74. To reach Dumfries & Galloway, you can also continue west along the M77, then head south through Ayrshire, travelling along the coast and country roads. 

Mennock Pass, Nithbank Country Estate

From the South

From Newcastle you can follow a few options, depending on your end-destination: 

  • The A1 north will take you directly to the Scottish Borders 
  • For Midlothian, continue along the A1 until you reach the turn-off signposted Edinburgh City Bypass (A720 to Perth, Glasgow, Stirling) 
  • For a more scenic route, travel along the A696, then the A68 through Northumberland National Park and into the Scottish Borders at Carter Bar. 

From Carlisle, simply follow along the M6 to reach the border town of Gretna. You can then explore Dumfries & Galloway further, following the A75 or A74, while the A7 from Carlisle takes you through the Scottish Borders towns of Hawick, Selkirk, and Galashiels. 

Plan your travel

Car parking

Across the South of Scotland, you’ll find a mix of on-street parking, council-run car parks and private facilities available in towns and at popular attractions. 

Parking charges, time limits and payment methods vary by location. Some car parks may only accept payment in coins or require payment via mobile app. Research online ahead of your visit for more information or look out for local signage and parking payment machines when you arrive.  

When visiting smaller villages or rural attractions, please park considerately and follow local signage to help keep roads and access routes clear for residents and emergency services. 

Find out more on the Scottish Borders Council website and the Dumfries and Galloway Council website 

EV Charging

Electric vehicle (EV) charging is available across the South of Scotland, making it easy to explore the region by electric car.  

Charging points can be found in many main towns and villages, including Lauder, Stow, Galashiels, Tweedbank, Kelso, Selkirk, Jedburgh, Hawick and Peebles in the Scottish Borders, and Moffat, Sanquhar, Kirkconnel, Dumfries, Kirkudbright, Gatehouse of Fleet, Newton Stewart and Stranraer in Dumfries & Galloway. 

Please note, where a charging point is located in a Pay and Display car park, a parking ticket must be purchased while you charge your car.  

Visit our map to view all EV Chargers in the South of Scotland. Simply select ‘EV Chargers’ under the Local Services category to filter the map.

Car and campervan hire in the Scottish Borders 

If you’re arriving to the South of Scotland by public transport, car hire can be a convenient way to explore the region at your own pace. Looking to connect with nature during your visit? Campervan hire is a great way to make use of the region’s many scenic campsites. 

Car and campervan hire services are available in nearby cities and large town such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Carlisle and Berwick-upon-Tweed. Car rental is also available in local towns, such as Galashiels in the Scottish Borders, and Dumfries in Dumfries & Galloway.  

Frequently asked questions

Is there accessible parking in the South of Scotland? 

Yes. Accessible (Blue Badge) parking spaces and family parking bays are available across the South of Scotland, including in town centres, council-run car parks and at many visitor attractions. Blue Badge holders may be entitled to free or extended parking in some locations, although rules vary by area. Always check local signage for specific conditions, restrictions and time limits. 

Do I need a car to explore the South of Scotland? 

A car is not essential, as many towns and attractions can be reached by train or bus. However, having a car makes it easier to explore rural areas, scenic routes and lesser-known attractions that are harder to reach by public transport. Travelling by car offers the greatest flexibility, especially if you plan to visit remote locations or explore at your own pace. 

Can I drink and drive in Scotland? 

No, you cannot drink and drive in Scotland. Scotland has a zero-tolerance approach to drink driving, with a lower legal alcohol limit than many other parts of the UK. It is recommended you don’t consume any alcohol at all if you are planning to drive. Penalties for drink driving can include fines, driving bans and imprisonment. 

Are there any driving routes in the South of Scotland?

Yes, there are two long-distance driving routes you can enjoy in the South of Scotland. The South West Coastal 300 is a circular route that provides the perfect way to explore Dumfries & Galloway and Southern Ayrshire. Alternatively, the 90-mile A7 Borders Historic route from Carlisle to Edinburgh is a fabulous way to expore the Scottish Borders, with plenty to do along the route.