Take A Day Trip to the Scottish Borders

Places to visit in the Scottish Borders

There’s so much to see and do in Scotland’s capital city. But sometimes you just want to get out of the city for the day. While you could choose from a whole range of Edinburgh day trip ideas, the Scottish Borders is a popular choice. When it comes to Edinburgh day trips, we’ve got the best places to visit in the Scottish Borders all lined up for you!

Getting there

From our hotel it’s just a short walk to Edinburgh Waverley Station. Then it’s an easy journey on the train line to Tweedbank, near Galashiels in the Scottish Borders. It takes around an hour and you can pick up a return ticket for an affordable price. Or, if you really want to make the most of your day trip, how about taking the car? This way you’ll be able to check out all the best places to visit in the Scottish Borders. And take in the stunning countryside too!

Visit Abbotsford

Abbotsford House and Gardens in the Scottish Borders

The Scottish Borders is heavily linked to the novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott. Start your adventure in the Borders with a trip to Abbotsford, his grand former home near Melrose. This beautiful country house is a prime example of Scots Baronial architecture, with formal Regency gardens and a range of woodland walks nearby to explore. There’s a tea room for refreshments, plus plenty of activities and things to see!

Lunch in Melrose

Ancient ruins of Melrose Abbey in the Scottish Borders

Day trips from Edinburgh always involve a delicious lunch of some description. And where better to stop off than the pretty Borders town of Melrose, close to Abbotsford? You can stroll around the historic Abbey before choosing from a range of cafes, restaurants and hotels where you can enjoy lunch. You’ll find everything on the menu from soup and sandwiches to authentic Scottish dishes. Melrose is also known for its vintage and antique shops, so it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or gifts on your day trip.

Floors Castle

Wide shot of Floors Castle in the Scottish Borders

Culture and history lovers are spoiled for choice in the Scottish Borders. The area is packed with country houses and castles. It can be hard to decide what to see first! One of the best places to visit in the Scottish Borders has to be Floors Castle. Just outside the town of Kelso (itself worth visiting), this 18th century castle is a great day trip option. Did you know it’s the largest inhabited castle in Scotland? With its grand rooms, lavish tapestries and stunning views over the Cheviot Hills, you can’t afford to miss it.

Mary Queen of Scots’ House

Mary Queen Of Scots House in Jedburgh Scottish Borders

If you’re bringing the car on your day trip, head a little further south to Jedburgh and check out Mary Queen of Scot’s House. Entry is free and you can see where Mary, Queen of Scots stayed for a few weeks in 1566. The house has been turned into a museum home to paintings, textiles and letters from Mary’s life.

Locally brewed

Four beers lined up for tasting

Before you head back to Tweedbank for the train back to Edinburgh, why not check out a local brewery? Tempest Brew Co is a stone’s throw from the station and a great place to pick up some authentic beers from the Borders. There are even some unusual beers, like Dios Mio! A Jalapeno-infused IPA. After all, day trips from Edinburgh are thirsty work!

These really are some of the best places to visit in the Scottish Borders, but there are plenty more too! And Edinburgh is the perfect base for a day trip. So, why not take a look at our special offers and start planning your holiday today?