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Scottish Borders

A guide to the Scottish Borders

The Scottish Borders is a region of rolling countryside, historic market towns and dramatic landscapes, stretching from the edge of Edinburgh to the border with England. Steeped in history and tradition, the area is renowned for its magnificent castles, literary heritage and fascinating past, shaped by centuries of border conflicts and cultural exchange.

The region encompasses the historic counties of Berwickshire, Peeblesshire, Roxburghshire and Selkirkshire and offers an exceptional variety of properties, from charming cottages and traditional farmhouses to grand country homes and equestrian estates. The Scottish Borders combines peaceful rural living with excellent access to Edinburgh and northern England, making it an increasingly desirable place to call home.

Residents enjoy an exceptional quality of life centred around the outdoors, strong community spirit and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you're looking for beautiful countryside, sporting opportunities or historic towns full of character, the Scottish Borders offers something for everyone.

Local schools

Families relocating to the Scottish Borders have access to a number of highly regarded schools throughout the region. Well-known schools include St Mary's School in Melrose, Kelso High School, Peebles High School and Earlston High School, alongside a range of excellent primary schools serving the area's towns and villages.

Who calls the Scottish Borders home?

The Scottish Borders attracts a diverse mix of residents. Families are drawn to the area's excellent schools, outdoor lifestyle and close-knit communities, while professionals appreciate the opportunity to enjoy countryside living within commuting distance of Edinburgh. The region is also popular with those seeking more space, equestrian properties and a slower pace of life surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Lifestyle

Shopping

The region's historic market towns offer an excellent range of independent retailers, artisan producers and specialist boutiques. Towns such as Melrose, Kelso and Peebles provide a charming shopping experience, where residents can browse everything from fashion and antiques to local produce and handmade crafts.

Eating and drinking

The Scottish Borders is known for its high-quality local produce and warm hospitality. Traditional inns, cosy cafés and award-winning restaurants can be found throughout the region, many showcasing seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and estates. From relaxed lunches to fine dining experiences, there is something to suit every occasion.

Culture and heritage

The Scottish Borders has a rich and fascinating heritage, with stories of Border Reivers, ancient abbeys and historic castles woven into the landscape. The region is also recognised as Scotland's premier textile-producing area, renowned worldwide for its tartan, cashmere, wool and tweed. Visitors can explore this heritage along the Textile Trail and discover the craftsmanship that has shaped the region's identity for centuries.

Things to do

The region offers exceptional opportunities for walking and cycling, from the Berwickshire Coastal Path to the Tweed Cycle Way and the renowned Scottish Borders Walking Festival. The River Tweed is considered one of the world's finest salmon rivers and attracts anglers from across the globe, while the region's strong equestrian heritage is celebrated through horse racing, riding events and the annual Borders Festival of the Horse. Watersports enthusiasts can also enjoy sailing, surfing and kayaking across the region's rivers, lochs and coastline.

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Travel

Trains

The Borders Railway connects Tweedbank with Edinburgh, providing a convenient route for commuters and visitors travelling to and from the capital. Berwick-upon-Tweed also offers direct services to Edinburgh, Newcastle and London.

Roads and other transport

The region enjoys excellent road links via the A1, A68 and A7, providing straightforward connections to Edinburgh, Newcastle and the wider south of Scotland and northern England.

Local bus services connect many of the region's towns and villages, while Edinburgh Airport is within easy reach and offers a range of domestic and international destinations. The area's extensive network of walking, cycling and riding routes also makes it easy to explore the beautiful countryside at a slower pace.

Strutt & Parker in Scotland

Inverness

Perth Suite, Castle House, Fairways Business ParkInverness, IV2 6AA

Opening hours

Mon to Thu: 8.30am to 5.30pm

Friday: 8.30am to 5pm

Saturday: 9.00am to 12 noon

Edinburgh

23 Melville StreetEdinburgh, EH3 7PE

Opening hours

Mon to Thu: 8.30am to 6.00pm

Friday: 8.30am to 5pm

Saturday: 9.00am to 2.00pm

Properties for sale in the Scottish Borders

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