Walks
For short walks with local history nearby, try the Lauder Town Trail or the Borders Abbeys Way.
Scott’s View is also worth a visit. This lookout was one of Sir Walter Scott’s favourite places to come and reflect, on account of the stunning view of the River Tweed and Eildon Hills.
Outdoor Activities
Glentress Forest is not far and is perfect for those into mountain biking, offering lots of trails for every ability. It’s also fantastic for adventure seekers here at Go Ape.
Or if you fancy a bit of horse riding during your stay, head to Nenthorn Equestrian Centre in Kelso.
Historical places
There’s also the rose-coloured stone at Melrose Abbey and the home of Sir Walter Scott: Abbotsford house.
You could even visit Scotland’s oldest inhabited house – the Traquair house in Innerleithen. Over 900 years old, this house has hosted 27 kings and queens of times past!
Days on the beach
For marine wildlife encounters head over to the border’s coastal town of Eyemouth. Here, you’ll find beautiful beaches and spot the friendly seals in the harbour. Hop on a boat to sightsee, spot some more wildlife, or go sea fishing. Round the day off with some of Eyemouth’s famous fish and chips on the beach.
Surfers can head to North Berwick sands or catch the rolling waves, as the River Tweed enters the sea at Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Fishing
Image credit: Bird Garden Scotland
Family-friendly
A short five-minute drive is Bird Gardens Scotland Cic where you’ll encounter wallabies, flamingos, parrots, emus and much more! The kids will love walking among free-range birds and playing in the play park.
For rainy-day activities, head to Lauder Leisure Centre where the kids can burn off energy in the soft play area. There’s also the ice rink and swimming pool at Kelso.
Local produce & hospitality
Have a wander down the streets of Lauder and you’ll find lots of small, independent shops – from quirky craft shops to traditional butchers. There’s fresh, locally-sourced fruit and veg, local delis and bakeries, and zero-waste shops for the eco-minded!
There are plenty of places nearby to pop in for lunch or a quick coffee, as well as some beautiful garden centres to check out. Or if you prefer larger, commercial outlets, it’s just a 30-minute drive to Edinburgh.
Sport/Leisure
Golfers are spoilt for choice here. From beginners, looking to swing clubs for the first time, to seasoned golfers, there’s something for everyone!
Lauder Golf Club is very close and presents a challenging but fair course, set in beautiful border woodland. It’s accessible and welcoming to visitors with modest green fees.
A short drive away there are even more courses to choose from, including championship parkland courses. Take your pick from Ashkirk Driving Range, Melville Golf Centre, Schloss Roxburghe or the multitude of courses over on Golf Coast.
You’ll find gym, swimming and tennis facilities just down the road at Lauder too.
Visit our annual Local Events Calendar for what’s on throughout the year.
Nearby towns
Melrose
Melrose is most known for its striking abbey and sevens rugby tournament. Appealing to those who love history and nature – the Trimontium Museum, Priorwood and Harmony Gardens, and Eildon Hills await!
Galashiels
Galashiels is the closest of the three towns and has many shops, including Tesco and Asda. You’ll also find a cinema, swimming pool and The Great Tapestry of Scotland here. There’s a large variety of restaurants and cafes too which will cater to everyone’s taste.
Kelso
Like Melrose, Kelso is known for its abbey which sits opposite the Roxburgh Castle remains. As well as this, there’s the Floors Castle and Mellerstain House & Gardens to visit.