| Hirsel Park
The grounds of The Hirsel, home to the Home family, are of interest to all country lovers throughout the year. From the spring bulbs to the rhododendrons in June and on to the autumn colours, the walks are a delight for all. Migrating birds flock to the estate and to the lake in particular.
Please note that the House is NOT open to the public.
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| Kelso Race Course
Branded as ‘Britain’s Friendliest Racecourese’, Kelso is a charming rural Jumps racecourse with a warm atmosphere and popular with a knowledgable local crowd. Not near any major towns, it is worth savouring the true Scottish Borders welcome and feel the atmosphere for yourself. |
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Thirlestane Castle
One of the 7 great houses of Scotland. Originally dating from the 13th century, it became the home of the Maitland family in the 16th century. The nursery has a unique collection of historic toys.
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| Common Ridings
In a series of events unique to the Scottish borderlands, the region's historic towns commemorate their history, legends and traditions with a succession of colourful festivals known as the Common Ridings. |
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Harestanes Countryside Visitor Centre
This centre offers events, exhibitions and countryside walks for all the family. Published programme of events for the whole year. Has the biggest and best children’s play park in the Borders.
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| Floors Castle
The site for the building of Floors Castle is a natural terrace overlooking the River Tweed and facing the Cheviot Hills, the heartland of the family's Estate. It lies on the opposite river bank to Roxburgh Castle, once the strongest fortress along the former march with England. |
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| Abbotsford House
This is the house built and lived in by Sir Walter Scott, novelist and author of timeless classics. The house has a fine collection of historic relics, weapons and armour, and a large library of rare volumes. |
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| Hume Castle
A rare example of a simple courtyard castle of the 13th century, the ruined curtain walls forming the basis of a folly built in 1794 for the last Earl of Marchmont.
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| Teviot Smokery, Coffee Shop
and Water Gardens
This is a 3-level water garden overlooking the River Teviot. 3 river walks and bird hide. Coffee shop and smokery attached. Newly extended shop and coffee shop with garden centre added outside. |
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