Further Afield – Things to do
With the Scottish Borders covering approximately 1800 square miles there’s so much to explore whilst you’re here. Alternatively, head west to discover Dumfries & Galloway or cross the border into England to discover the beautiful surroundings of the Lake District & Northumberland.
Lake Windermere
Alnwick Castle
Hadrians Wall
The Scottish Borders is set within some stunning scenery including beautiful valleys & forests. Here’s a few ideas to help you plan your day:
- Berwickshire coastal path: enjoy 28 miles of this coastal path running from Cockburnspath in Scotland down to the English Border at Berwick Upon Tweed, passing through nature reserves & pretty coastal villages such as St. Abbs & Eyemouth.
- Traquair House: just outside Peebles is Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest inhabited house dating back to 1107.
- Dawyck Botanic Garden: for garden enthusiasts why not take a trip out to this world-class arboretum with an award winning visitor centre.
Dumfries & Galloway has provided inspiration to many artists & writers, & has a variety of museums, galleries & outdoor activities.
Here’s a few ideas to help you plan your day:
- Drumlanrig Castle: home to the Duke & Duchess of Buccleuch, Drumlanrig Castle is set within a 90,000 acre estate with activities to interest the whole family.
- Logan Botanic Garden: garden lovers can enjoy southern hemisphere plants thriving at this botanical garden.
- Wigtown: Scotlands National Book Town holds an annual book fair packed with programmes for adults & children alike, whilst the town itself is brimming with ‘all things book-related’ all year round.
The Lake District is the most visited National Park in the UK & has many lakes, fells, valleys, towns & villages to explore.
Here’s a few ideas to help you plan your day:
- Beatrix Potter: explore Hill Top Farm which inspired Beatrix to write some of her most popular books, you’re sure to recognise areas of the garden from her illustrations.
- William Wordsworth: visit Grasmere, the resting place of William Wordsworth & home to Dove Cottage where you can see that little has changed since his residence there (don’t leave without some of the famous Gingerbread!)
- Lake Windermere: why not take a relaxing cruise across the lake & enjoy in the wonderful views.
A largely rural county, about a quarter of Northumberland is protected as National Park. Home to Holy Island, a tidal island rich in medieval religious history there’s lots to see & do.
Here’s a few ideas to help you plan your day:
- Bamburgh Castle: this castle has kept watch over the coastline for hundreds of years & holds a rich history of rebellion & battles ready for you to discover.
- Alnwick Castle: visit the amazing state rooms, collections & archives of this fine castle that has appeared in many tv & film productions such as Harry Potter & Downton Abbey.
- Ford & Etal Estates: a great day out for families & outdoor types with over 20 attractions across one destination.
Links to websites giving you more ideas on things to see & do further afield: