Peebles
The town of Peebles is 22 miles south of Edinburgh in the Scottish Borders. Here, you can enjoy long walks along the River Tweed, or visit ancient monuments and sites like the Mercat Cross and the Cross Kirk. Go fishing in the river, hiking or mountain biking in the Glentress Forest, or visit the town’s art galleries and craft studios. The beautiful Dawyck Botanic Garden is also close by, where you can enjoy woodland walks and themed tree trails and discover the story of the Scottish plant explorers.
Things to do in Peebles
For guests staying with us at Parliament House Hotel in Edinburgh, you can visit Peebles by bus. The journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Or, you can reach the town by car in under an hour. Once there, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained on your day trip.
Top attractions within the town include the John Buchan Story, a museum which explores the life of Scottish writer and politician, John Buchan, author of The Thirty-Nine Steps. And the Eastgate Theatre and Arts Centre, an arts venue that hosts a variety of shows, events and performances. Peebles Library, Museum and Gallery shows permanent displays and a programme of exhibitions, on a range of topics from art to local history. Plus, you can visit Cross Kirk, the ruins of a 13th-century monastic church, associated with miracles and the grave of Saint Nicholas.
‘Very impressive site near to everything in Peebles. Well worth going off the high street to find this absolute treasure.’
– Cross Kirk Peebles Tripadvisor Review
Dawyck Botanic Garden
The Dawyck Botanic Garden is around a 15-minute drive from Peebles. There is also a bus service from the town. This spectacular garden is up in the hills and has its own microclimate. This allows species from mountainous regions across the world to thrive there. It has a large tree collection, containing some of Britain’s oldest and tallest trees. Great for woodland walks and seasonal displays.
Glentress Forest
To the east of Peebles, a 15-minute car or taxi ride away, Glentress Forest is one of the best mountain bike trail centres in Scotland. There are also wonderful walking trails and an abundance of wildlife. In addition, there is a Go Ape treetop adventure park, home of Scotland’s highest zip wire!
