Melrose
Abbey, scenic walks, independent cafés and a great base for exploring the Scottish Borders.
Things to Do in the Scottish Borders
Discover walks, food and drink, heritage sites, golf, fishing and day trips near our holiday cottages in Melrose, Gattonside, Kelso and Peebles. This guide helps guests plan their stay and find the best places to visit across the Scottish Borders.
Planning a stay with us?
Browse our holiday cottages in the Scottish Borders, check availability, or use this guide to plan food, walks and days out near your accommodation.
Things to do by town
Gattonside
Quiet village across the Chain Bridge from Melrose, ideal for riverside walks and relaxed exploring.
Kelso
Market town, rivers, historic sites and excellent places to eat in the heart of the Borders.
Peebles
Riverside town with great shops, cafés, walks and nearby forests for a full day out.
Things to do by category
Most asked
Food & Drink
Restaurants, cafés, pubs, takeaways, plus practical notes like booking and parking, grouped by town.
MelroseKelsoPeebles
Outdoors
Walks
Short strolls, family-friendly routes and longer hikes, with ideas for scenic walks across the Borders.
EasyScenicDog friendly
History
Heritage
Abbeys, castles, museums and historic towns, ideal for a half-day or full-day itinerary.
Melrose AbbeyFloors Castle
Explore
Day trips
Great days out within an easy drive, including coastal towns, Edinburgh access and countryside highlights.
30–60 mins1–2 hours
Leisure
Golf & Fishing
Courses, permits, local waters and tips for planning, including what to book in advance.
GolfRiver fishing
Essentials near your stay
Quick answers guests often need
We’re building these pages so you can plan ahead without phone calls. Over time we’ll add: nearest supermarkets, pharmacies, EV charging, fuel, dog-friendly spots, rainy-day ideas, and seasonal opening tips.
Tip for guests
Many popular restaurants in Melrose and Kelso book up at weekends and during school holidays. Where we recommend bookings, we’ll say so on the Food & Drink page.