Kelso is Bordering on Brilliant! If you are searching for a holiday destination that is rich in natural beauty with a fascinating history, plenty of places to eat and drink, and a wide choice of places to stay then look no further than Kelso. This beautiful town in the Scottish Borders has been welcoming visitors for centuries with today's holidaymakers having an enormous variety of cottages to rent ranging from traditional stone dwellings to architect-designed contemporary timber lodges. Kelso sits on the bank of one of the most famous of all the rivers in Britain, the mighty Tweed, right where it intersects with the Teviot, making it a paradise for nature lovers while offering plenty for visitors who prefer the town to country pursuits. Read more
Delight in the charm of Bread Oven Cottage, a beautifully restored 300-year-old retreat nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders. Perfect for up to four guests, this cosy haven offers modern comforts while preserving its historic character. Ideal for walkers and explorers, it's close to iconic landmarks like Smailholm Tower, Floors Castle, and the Eildon Hills. An hour's drive takes you to Edinburgh, under two hours to Glasgow for an exciting day out. With each bedroom boasting ensuite or private facilities, it’s perfect for families or friends seeking a peaceful getaway. Guests rave about the stunning location, lovely garden, and attentive hosts. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Set in a peaceful corner of an organic farm and only two miles from Kelso, Eden Hideaway is a wonderful holiday chalet for up to four people, with beautiful views of the Eden Valley and the Cheviot Hills. The owner has taken great care to ensure guests can relax and enjoy themselves from the moment they arrive, whether it is by lighting the cosy log burner or heating the wood-fired outdoor spa to sit under the stars and let the warm water soothe tired muscles. There are fantastic footpaths and mountain bike routes nearby, as well as favourite attractions including Roxburgh Castle, Floors Castle and Kelso Abbey.
The Eden Valley is one of the most beautiful parts of the Scottish Borders and this contemporary chalet, just two miles from Kelso, is ideally positioned to enjoy the view. There is space for four people in two bedrooms, and it is as popular with couples who want a romantic escape as it is with active families. The private log-fired outdoor hot tub is a luxurious touch, and the owners have taken care to ensure guests enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay as they explore the beautiful landscape and famous attractions such as Floors Castle.
Plum Tree Cottage is a romantic retreat ideal for couples in a stunning setting with views over rolling farmland. Close to the popular Scottish Border town of Kelso with superb shopping and great places to enjoy a meal out, Plum Tree Cottage is perfect for exploring the Border towns, historic sights and many attractions. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Garden Bank Cottage sits in a pretty tranquil setting on the Scottish Borders near to the popular town of Kelso. Great walking and fishing, superb places for a meal out, plenty of historic sites to visit and wonderful shopping are just some of the reasons to visit (along with the use of a tennis court!). Tourist board rating: 4 Star
With the vibrant Scottish Borders town of Kelso within easy reach, Cockle Kitty holiday cottage affords a peaceful and tranquil setting to return home to at the end of an exciting day browsing the superb shops, visiting the historic sights or walking until your heart is content. Guests have the use of a fantastic tennis court. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
"Silverbirch" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Northumberland. Cornhill-on-Tweed, a charming little village in northern Northumberland not far from Coldstream and Berwick and 15 miles from the coast, sits on the Scottish border. Those who enjoy walking or golfing will love the surrounding countryside, and...
"Flodden" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Northumberland. Just 1.5 miles from Coldstream and 15 miles from Berwick and the coast is the charming tiny community of Cornhill-on-Tweed, which is located on the northernmost edge of Northumberland and the Scottish Border. It is a serene place with stunning...
"Cherry Studio" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Northumberland. Just 1.5 miles from Coldstream and 15 miles from Berwick and the coast is the charming tiny community of Cornhill-on-Tweed, which is located on the northernmost edge of Northumberland and the Scottish Border. It is a serene place with stunning...
"Cheviot View" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Northumberland. Northumberland's northernmost village, Cornhill-on-Tweed, is only 15 miles from Berwick and the coast and only 1.5 miles from Coldstream. Beautiful, open countryside is perfect for strolling or playing a round of golf, and the tranquilly of the...
"The Auld Pigsty at Yeavering House" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Coldstream. Coldstream, a charming town in the Scottish Borders known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. Situated along the River Tweed renowned for its excellent salmon and trout fishing, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural...
"The Coach House" is a 5 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 10 guests in Northumberland. Northumberland's northernmost village, Cornhill-on-Tweed, is situated close to the coastal cities of Coldstream and Berwick-upon-Tweed and the Scottish border. The tranquilly and breath-taking beauty of the surrounding countryside make it a...
"Langton Castle" is a 12 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 26 guests in Duns. Langton Castle is one mile South East of Duns in the eastern Scottish Borders, probably the most accessible part of rural Scotland. The castle stands at the end of a smooth 500 yard private drive in an area of beautifully maintained woodland...
"SCHLOSS Roxburghe, part of Destination by Hyatt" is a 1 bed holiday Hotel sleeping up to 2 guests in Kelso.
"Abbeyside Cottage" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Kelso.
"SCHLOSS Roxburghe, part of Destination by Hyatt" is a 1 bed holiday Hotel sleeping up to 3 guests in Roxburgh.
"SCHLOSS Roxburghe, part of Destination by Hyatt" is a 1 bed holiday Hotel sleeping up to 4 guests in Roxburgh.
"Crailing Coach House" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Jedburgh.
"Bughtrig Cottage" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Coldstream.
"Mill Barn" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Northumberland.
"Attractive cottage in garden grounds" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Jedburgh.
"Church View" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 guests in Kelso.
"Lane Cottage" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 guests in Coldstream.
"Lovely cottage in garden grounds near centre" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 guests in Jedburgh.
"Pirnie Cottage" is a 4 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 8 guests in Kelso.
"Castle Gate Apartment" is a 3 bed holiday Apartment sleeping up to 6 guests in Jedburgh.
"The Old Stable" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Northumberland. The Old Stable is a fantastic family friendly holiday cottage, located in the charming small village of Milfield, on the outskirts of Wooler, which makes an excellent base to discover all that Northumberland has to offer. It’s perfect for those...
"1 Bed Cottage in Morebattle" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Kelso. Additional information and rules - 1 bedroom - double with additional single sofa bed (Sleeps 2+1) - 1 shower room and 1 separate WC - Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer and washing machine - Ample off-road parking -...
"Wood Cottage" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Coldstream.
"Dryburgh Steading Two" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Saint Boswells.
Popular towns in and around Scottish Borders:
Berwick Upon TweedBerwick-upon-TweedBiggarCockburnspathEdinburghEyemouthGrantshouseHawickKelsoLangholmLauderMelroseNewcastletonPeeblesRoxburghshireSelkirkWest LintonSearch within South East Scotland
Town vs Country - There is no reason to compromise when you stay in Kelso. The vibrant town has everything visitors need for a relaxing self-catering holiday including lots of places to shop for supplies as well as an excellent variety of cafes, pubs and restaurants for those who enjoy dining out. Any townie will tell you that an excellent way to build an appetite is not with a lengthy walk through the countryside but with a gentle stroll around Kelso's enormous market square. Once the place to buy cattle and other livestock, it is now lined with independent specialist shops carrying an enticing variety of goods.
If you do fancy stretching your legs through mile after mile of countryside, then you will be impressed with the footpaths and cycling routes leading from the town and through the spectacular scenery for which the Scottish Borders is famed. The Borderloop, Tweed Cycle Route, and the Coast and Castles route are just three of many ways to explore by bicycle. Way-marked footpaths include the Kelso Town Trail, Sprouston Circular, Borders Abbey Way, and the Kelso Tweed Riverside and Abbey walk. Mountain bikers can make good use of the trails at 7Stanes in Innerleithen, and the Northumberland National Park is also close.
Field pursuits such as clay pigeon shooting are readily accessible, as are horse riding and deerstalking. Naturally, being so close to the Tweed and the Teviot Rivers makes fishing a very popular past time, with salmon and wild trout.
History - You don't have to know much about British history to appreciate that the area where Scotland joins England is one with a mixed history. Kelso is rich in architectural interest from the ruins of Kelso Abbey constructed in 1128, an elegant bridge with five graceful arches that acted as a prototype for Waterloo Bridge in London, and the magnificence of Floors Castle with its opulent interiors, world-class art collection, and extensive parkland. There are recognised battle sites at Philiphaugh, Darnick, and on Ancrum Moor, or drive half an hour to Jedburgh to see the Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre and the beautiful abbey ruins.
Days Out - Edinburgh is just over an hour's drive from Kelso so a day in the nation's capital, with its plentiful attractions and distractions, is easy to arrange. Alternatively, head south over the border and explore ancient Hadrian's Wall. If it's sunny and you feel like a day at the seaside, then Bamburgh on the Northumberland Coast is only 35 miles from the centre of Kelso. There is something to appeal to everyone in every season.
Reasons to Visit - Any of the above details are enough to tempt visitors to Kelso. Still, just in case you need further convincing, their calendar of events will have you packing your bags as you book tickets for the Kelso Races, Borders Art Fair or the Kelso Folk Festival. Also in the Borders are the Hawick Reivers Festival, Common Ridings, and the Borders Walking and Book Festivals.
Scotland is a vast nation with a wonderfully diverse landscape, rich heritage and beautiful culture. Kelso encapsulates everything wonderful about Scotland in one very attractive package.
