The Border Abbeys and Abbotsford House

Visit this often forgotten region which played such an important part in Scotland's history during the Wars of Independence, throughout Medieval times and in the early 19th century made the home of Sir Walter Scot, Scotland's most famous romantic writer.

Leave Edinburgh for the rolling farmland of the Borders area and the ancient ruins of Melrose Abbey. Admire this most stunning of Abbey ruins and stand at the spot where the heart of King Robert The Bruce is buried.

The village of Melrose is a wonderful example of a charming Borders village, with family owned shops, excellent cafes and restaurants and a Book Festival where you would meet many great contemporary Scottish writers.

A visit to the home of Sir Walter Scott, Abbotsford House, is always a delight and the stunning garden is a sanctuary at any time of year.

Travel distance are less in the Borders than other parts of Scotland so we have the choice of visiting Dryburgh Abbey, Jedburgh Abbey or perhaps visit the largest inhabited house in Scotland at Floors Castle. Enjoy exploring 700 years of history where the family still lives in the castle and shares part of it and the wonderful grounds, with the visitors.

The Borders is also home to some of the early connections with Mary Queen of Scots. In Jedburgh you may visit the Mary Queen of Scots Centre, A 16th century towerhouse where the medieval Queen stayed as she journeyed through this region.

On the return to Edinburgh visit famous Rosslyn Chapel or Glenkinchie Distillery for a wee dram of whisky.