The Borders region between England and Scotland is rich in both heritage and beauty. It is a diverse place stretching from Cumbria (the Lake District) in the west to the southern outskirts of Edinburgh in the East. The Cheviot Hills separates the Borders area into East and West.
The Borders are steeped in history based on years of feudal war between the English and Scottish. Sparsely populated, the countryside has more castles than any other part of the United Kingdom. The Lake District in the west is a popular destination for Hikers, Hill Walkers and tourists alike, and the eastern Borders is home to the birthplace of Christianity in the western world.
There are no major hotel chains in this region due to the fact that it lies between cities of Newcastle and Edinburgh in the East and Carlisle in the West. There are however hundreds of Bed and Breakfast Inns and Small family run hotels around.
On Exploring the Scottish Borders, you'll discover a host of friendly, picturesque towns and villages.
There are many breathtaking castles and stately homes to visit, steeped in exciting and bloody history. The town of Kelso, with its lovely cobbled streets, is regarded as one of the most charming towns in the Borders. Other areas of interest include Selkirk, and Peebles, which both host entertaining annual local festivals, definitely worth a visit.
Further areas of interest worth a visit in the Borders include the breathtaking St Mary's Loch, and a host of the picturesque Abbeys and Castles in the Borders area. St Mary's Loch is the largest Natural Loch in the region; a mighty 5km long and 1km wide and according to local legend, has no bottom. Situated just 10 miles North East of Moffat is the 5th highest waterfall in the UK, the spectacular, 200ft Grey Mare's Tail. The Abbey's in Jedburgh, Dryburgh, Kelso and Melrose are remarkable, and all have their own stories to tell.
Alternatively, take a trip to Dumfries & Galloway and visit one of the many places, like Ellisland, that celebrate their historical connections with their adopted son, Robert Burns, and view some of his most famous original writings and possessions.
We feature a wonderful selection of Borders Holiday Cottages. All of them make an excellent base to explore the surrounding countryside.
