Explore the Scottish Borders

Walks lead from the house towards the River Tweed and out into the surrounding countryside. The Borders Abbeys Way and St Cuthbert's Way both cross this part of the Borders, and the Eildon Hills rise close by.

Dryburgh Abbey, Melrose Abbey, Abbotsford — the home Sir Walter Scott built — Floors Castle at Kelso, and Scott's View looking over the Tweed towards the Eildons.

Quiet back roads, river routes and waymarked trails make the Borders excellent cycling country, whether you prefer gentle valley riding or longer hill days.

The Tweed is one of the world's great salmon rivers. Beats, permits and seasons vary — arrangements are made directly with the relevant beat or agency.

There are several courses within the Borders, from parkland to links-style play on the coast a short drive east.

Farm shops, butchers, bakeries and country pubs make self-catering easy. Melrose, St Boswells and Kelso are all good for provisions and a long lunch.

Riverside walks, abbey ruins to explore, castle grounds and wide open space — plenty to fill a few days with children of mixed ages.

Melrose for its abbey and independent shops, Kelso for its cobbled square and Floors Castle, St Boswells on the doorstep, and Jedburgh and Selkirk a little further out.