The Essential Guide to the Scottish Borders and Southwest
Although not a particularly popular region for travelers, the verdant Scottish Borders and its neighboring districts of Dumfries and Galloway have their own sublime appeal. There’s no shortage of history here, with several stately castles, mansions, and abbeys that date back to the 12th century when Catholicism was the state religion.
Carfraemill, Lauder TD2 6RA, UK
A family-run restaurant nestled into the Lammermuir Hills, the award-winning Carfraemill makes use of the many ingredients from the fertile Scottish Borders. Cheese and ice cream come from local dairies, while meat, haggis, black pudding, and...
Abbotsford House, Melrose TD6 9BQ, UK
The former home of Scottish historical novelist Sir Walter Scott, Abbotsford contains a treasure trove of objects that the great 19th-century author collected during his eventful life. Having popularized tartan, saved the Scottish banknote, and...
Abbey St, Melrose TD6 9LG, UK
The heart of Robert the Bruce, King of the Scots, is buried somewhere here, amid the magnificent ruins of Scotland’s first Cistercian monastery. Scholars believe Melrose Abbey dates back to the 7th century, though most of what remains today...
Market Square, Melrose TD6 9PL, UK
Located in the historic town of Melrose on a picturesque market square, Burts Hotel is a local institution. The 18th-century property has been owned and managed by the same family for nearly four decades, having been restored and extended to...
Caerlaverock, Dumfries DG1 4RU, UK
Unique in its triangular shape, this red-sandstone castle is something of an unknown treasure. First attacked by England’s Edward I in 1300, Caerlaverock (pronounced kah-liver-ick) was repeatedly placed under siege and rebuilt over the...
1 South Cres, Portpatrick, Stranraer DG9 8JR, UK
Located in the charming harbor town of Portpatrick, Campbell’s is the perfect combination of welcoming informality and smart professionalism—with views of pleasure crafts and fishing boats, to boot. The best dishes highlight the fruits...
Port Logan, Nr. Stranraer DG9 9ND, UK
Home to exotic plants from places as far-flung as South and Central America, Africa, and Australasia, Logan Botanic Garden is a beautiful place to wander and relax amid spectacular flora. Located on the southwestern tip of Scotland, the garden...
