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ScotlandShop's Headquarters are in the bustling town of Duns in the Scottish Borders, a fantastic part of Scotland we highly recommend visiting. A hidden gem, there is so much to see and do, and beautiful places to stay. Read on for our suggestions! Visit us and peruse the tartans at our Showroom on Station Road, hire a Kilt for your wedding and read on for our suggestions on other fun things to do in the area!
Explore Things To Do & See
Where do we even start?! As well as being steeped in clan history there is so much to see and do in Duns itself and the wider Scottish Borders, we are spoilt for choice. Definitely a place to return to again and again...and again!
Jim Clark Rally and Motorsport Museum
A very popular event in the Scottish Borders is the annual Jim Clark Rally! Over a weekend in May the town of Duns and surrounding areas are buzzing with rally cars. It attracts people from all over the world.
If you're a motorsport fan you'll probably know about Jim Clark. A local legend, he moved to Chirnside just outside Duns when he was six and spent his youth racing around the Borders. There is also the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum, Jim Clark Café Bistro and Jim Clark Trail - a fun day out to learn all about Jim Clark, see some classic cars he raced in and have an adventure driving the Jim Clark Trail around the Borders to see where he grew up and learnt to drive. Visit the Jim Clark Museum to discover the incredible story of Jim Clark’s life and racing career with an exciting interactive museum experience. Jim Clark is widely regarded as one of the greatest racing drivers of all time, admired for his remarkable achievements and famous for his humility. He dominated world motor racing like no one before or since in all genres of motorsport, winning the Formula 1 World Championship in 1963 & 1965 and Indianapolis 500, but sadly died in a tragic crash aged 32. Read more about Jim Clark here.
Borders Book Festival
The Borders Book Festival is held in Harmony Garden, Melrose, over four days in June every year. The festival always seems to catch some great summer weather and the town of Melrose itself is a joy to visit, full of small independent shops, coffee shops and of course home to the historic Melrose Abbey.
The Festival was started by Alistair Moffat and Paula Ogilvie as a small gathering and it has now grown into a festival visited by more than 34,000 people. It's not only a literary festival there is also a festival village in The Orchard with storytelling events, a bar, vintage vehicles, food vans and much more. Books can be bought from the Festival Bookshop along with book signings by visiting authors.
Some of the incredible authors and guests from previous year's line ups are David Nicholls, author of One Day, and Val McDermid, a prolific crime writer, as well as children's events, yoga and meditation, and crafting for gentle activism. It is always a great event!
For the current programme of events click here!
Coldingham Bay & St Abbs
Coldingham Bay is part of the St Abbs and Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve, and has a sandy beach - a popular spot for holidaymakers, and a favourite destination for the ScotlandShop team for a swim or a day out.
It's also very close to St Abbs and St Abbs Head nature reserve, a great place to go walking and birdwatching, especially in the summer, when the sea birds return to nest. The cliffs are full of fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemots and razorbills. A sight and sound to behold!
You may even spot pods of dolphins in the sea - I have seen them there before! It's also a popular area for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Fans of the Marvel movies will be thrilled to know that St Abbs is the home of New Asgard! In case you didn't see the movie, St Abbs was used as a filming location in Avengers: Endgame to represent a village called New Asgard.
Nearby Eyemouth is great for fish and chips, or as we say in Scotland, a fish supper! Finished off with what has to be the best locally made ice cream in the world from Giacopazzi's, while you watch the seals in the harbour.
Discover Places to Stay
There is no shortage of accommodation in the Scottish Borders! We were delighted to interview the lovely people who run some of the beautiful places to stay.
Wigwam Holidays Sunnybank
We spoke to Pamela and Barry from Wigwam Holidays Sunnybank to find out more about the accommodation they offer, why they think the Scottish Borders are special and what their favourite tartan is!
How long have you been running Wigwam Holidays Sunnybank in Auchencrow and what kind of accommodation do you offer?
Sunnybank has been open since July 2023. We are a small site with 2 fully equipped luxury cabins that can sleep up to six people with a separate double bedroom, en-suite facilities and your own private decking area with an electric heated jacuzzi style hot tub.
What can you tell us a bit about how and why Wigwam Holidays Sunnybank started?
We moved down to Auchencrow around 7 years ago and fell in love with the peaceful calmness, dark starry skies and wealth of places to visit in the surrounding area. This is why we set up Wigwam Holidays Sunnybank, so others could enjoy what we live with every day.
What makes the Scottish Borders so special?
Its stunning landscapes, rich history and cultural heritage. Additionally, it offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing and cycling. The Borders also has a unique cultural heritage like Border Ballads and Common Ridings, which celebrate the area’s history and folklore. Overall, it’s a special place due to its combination of natural beauty, heritage, and vibrant local culture.
What’s your favourite place in the Borders to recommend to your guests (if you can narrow it down!)?
Coldingham Bay, which is situated within the St. Abbs and Eyemouth Marine Reserve, which in itself is part of the Berwickshire and North Northumberland Coast Special Area of Conservation. The beach is popular with surfers and bodyboarders and a lifeguard attends the beach during busy periods in the summer. There are around 55 beach huts, some of which are around 100 years old.
Are your guests mostly from the UK on a staycation or do some come from abroad?
So far most are from various parts of the UK.
Are you and your husband Barry originally from the Borders?
Both of us were brought up in East Lothian. Both of Barry’s parents were born near Chirnside. Finding out also that his granny and her siblings lived and attended the village school in Auchencrow, we now class this as our true home.
We must ask of course, what is your favourite tartan?
One favourite is the Scottish Rugby Union tartan, and of course my husband would go for his Clan Knox family tartan.
Find out more about Wigwam Holidays Sunnybank on their website and Facebook page.
Braeview Glamping
We spoke to Morag from Braeview Glamping about why she set up her glamping pods for adults only, what makes the Scottish Borders special and what she did with her father's kilt!
What made you set up Braeview Glamping, how long have you been running it and what kind of accommodation do you offer?
Braeview Glamping was inspired by what we choose to do at a weekend when we were living in Greater Manchester. We spent all week thinking about getting away to the space and tranquillity of the countryside. The places we were able to relax and unwind the best were accommodation providers that were exclusively for adults. It was a big decision to make, but we truly believe that it’s easier to unwind and relax with absolute peace and quiet.
We opened in May 2021 after building our site from scratch. Our gorgeous pods are all en-suite with under-floor heating, a well equipped kitchen, super free Wi-Fi, Smart TV and outdoor space with seating and a fire pit. Two of our most secluded pods have private hot tubs. Being able to provide a place where we can help guests improve their wellbeing and mental health by connecting with nature (without a loss of home comforts) and truly switching off, is our number one goal. We have lots of repeat visitors, so it appears that we are getting that right.
What makes the Scottish Borders so special?
The Scottish Borders are so special because, despite its incredible coastline, seaside villages, and historic heritage, it’s like a well-kept secret. We have so many guests who have stayed with us because they chose to come Glamping, but then come back again and again as they have discovered that it is a great area to explore. The Berwickshire Coast is so special and, in my opinion, totally underrated as a destination.
If you’ve never been to the area before, try Coldingham Bay for an invigorating dip in the North Sea (or watch everyone else!), followed by some local seafood in one of the quirky independent cafes, and a visit to the beautiful Coldingham Priory to whet your historical appetite - and that’s just for starters.
What’s your favourite place in the Borders to recommend to your guests (if you can narrow it down!)?
If I had to narrow it down, St Abbs is one of my favourite places. The coastal views are second to none. It’s a quaint little village where you can explore the coastline by land walking the Berwickshire Coastal Path or by sea if you take a trip on Riptide – St Abbs Rib Trips. It’s our number 1 thing to do in the area and we do it every year. Our guests can walk to St Abbs via Coldingham and Coldingham Bay – it’s a very popular option.
Are your guests from the UK on a staycation or do most visit from abroad?
Most of our guests are from the UK, although we are seeing a growing number of European guests, mainly Dutch and German. Last year we also hosted a few American guests.
Are you from the Borders originally and/or are you connected to a clan?
My Dad and Mum bought the farm where Braeview is based in 1964. I was brought up here and left in my teens to head off to College. After 25 years, I realised that there was no place like home. The Borders are unique and unspoilt. I can’t imagine being anywhere else now.
My mum's family originates from Brechin in Angus. My mum remembers wearing Lindsay tartan pleated skirts paired with a brown cardigan that she did not like! I think it’s a gorgeous tartan and something that I would definitely wear – but without the brown cardigan!
Over the past 60 years there have been many changes to move with the times and try new things. Although Braeview Glamping is the most recent change, we are also proud to be able to say that the farm and the pods are powered by a wind turbine making the business truly sustainable.
We must ask of course, what is your favourite tartan?
My Dad wore the Ancient Colquhoun and my brother wears the modern version. The Colquhoun tartan has to be my favourite tartan as it reminds me of home, ceilidhs and good times.
Any other good stories you’d like to add?
My Dad had 3 kilts during his life and even after all the wear (he wore a kilt to school) the fabric was still in great condition, so I had them made into cushions for his granddaughters. They are such a precious keepsake as they have the original labels and buckles attached.
When I returned home to Berwickshire I realised how much I had missed contact with animals. A pet wasn’t really an option so instead, I bought 5 little sheep. They are Bowmont Merinos – a cross between a Shetland Sheep (hardy for the Scottish Winter) and a Merino (incredible fleece). My quirky little sheep live next to the glamping pods and give all our guests a warm welcome. After the wool has been processed into yarn at The Border Mill in Duns we sell it in our honesty shop. The yarn is truly authentic to Berwickshire.
Find out more about Braeview Glamping on their website, Instagram and Facebook page.
airhouses
We spoke to Elisabeth from airhouses about the history of airhouses and the site it is on, her favourite places to recommend to guests and the antics of her goat, Fred!
How long have you been running airhouses and what kind of accommodation do you offer?
My parents have been running airhouses for 17 years now, and my husband and I came on board about 5 years ago. We offer high quality, 5 star, award winning luxury self-catering accommodation in 4 Norwegian wooden lodges, one large purpose-built house and two glamping pods. We have recently been awarded the Best Luxury Experience in Scotland Thistle Award by Visit Scotland.
Please tell us a bit about the history of the site you are on?
There is so much history at airhouses! We know people have lived here as far back as the bronze age, and perhaps earlier. Flint arrow and axe heads have been found here, and can now be seen at the National Museum of Scotland. It is believed a weapons maker once lived here. We are very close to the Roman road Deere street, and opposite two hill fort remains, so it would have been a good place to have a business!
More recently the land has been farmed, initially as part of Thirlestane Estate and more recently as a private farm. Our family have owned Airhouse for nearly 40 years and mainly run it as an organic beef farm. We have recently also reintroduced some sheep, as it was traditionally a sheep hill farm. We are exploring using the fleeces of these sheep in traditional ways such as peg looming, spinning and felt rug making. We are hoping to share these ancient crafts with guests soon.
What makes the Scottish Borders so special?
The Scottish borders are special for so many reasons, many people would cite the beauty of the landscape, the wilderness that can still be found but also the proximity to the capital. For me personally it is the history. It has always been caught up in the big events, and has a fascinating history.
What’s your favourite place in the Borders to recommend to your guests (if you can narrow it down!)?
Apart from ScotlandShop?! We love Abbotsford for the history, walks and café! Likewise the market towns of Kelso and Melrose. I am also a huge fan of Dryburgh Abbey and surrounding walks. It feels like a special spiritual place full of history.
With the increase in interest in ancestry over the last few years, have you noticed any of your guests wanting to explore their clan or Scottish heritage while they are staying at airhouses?
Yes absolutely, and this is an area we are starting to really think about. We are exploring how we can facilitate this more easily for guests. There is a great genealogy hub at Hawick for example, and we are starting work with a local tour guide who does ancestry specific tours.
Are your guests mostly from the UK on a staycation or do some come from abroad?
We have a mix of guests. The majority are from within the UK but we have a growing base of repeat customers from the Netherlands, Germany, US, Israel and the UAE.
How long have you lived with your family in the Borders and are you from Scotland originally and/or linked to a particular clan?
We have lived here since 1989. My mother grew up in Glasgow and we have been tracing her ancestry – we are Ramsay along this line, blacksmiths from Fife, East Lothian and then settled in the Newcastle area. We have named our lodges after Scottish family names in our ancestry: The Buchanan, The Lamont and The Ramsay.
We must ask of course, what is your favourite tartan?
It would have to be the Ramsay tartan! I like the Ancient Blue very much.
Any good stories you’d like to share?
We have so many good stories from so many wonderful guests. I think one of my favourite is probably when Fred our goat was a baby and had worked out a way to escape his field. He kept visiting people in their lodges, even tried to get in a hot tub. One day he knocked on the front door to ask if he could play with a guests' two dogs!
Find out more about airhouses on their website, Facebook page, Instagram and Tiktok.
The Allanton Inn
In the small conservation village of Allanton, a ten minute drive from Berwick-upon-Tweed / A1 and just six miles from the border is the award-winning Allanton Inn, run by William and Katrina Reynolds.
The beautiful coaching inn dates back to the 18th century and is located in the centre of the village. Providing not only rooms, but also a bar and restaurant, The Allanton Inn was awarded VisitScotland's Scottish Thistle Award for the Best Eating Experience in the South of Scotland in October 2023 and won the 2023 South East Scotland CAMRA for Real Ale. William and Katrina are passionate about food, both having grown up surrounded by good food and drink, so it's no surprise they have won awards!
Sourcing local produce, The Allanton Inn offers an informal dining experience and also features an enclosed private beer garden with views of the Borders countryside. There are seven bedrooms that feel homely and have modern facilities. Its location is the perfect place for a stop over on your way to exploring Scotland, or to use as a base to discover why the Scottish Borders are a hidden gem.
Which brings me to Borderland Tours - Tours with Tastes & Tales, a new unique tour for people who love food, drink and exploring as much as William and Katrina! They will take you through North Northumberland and Eastern Scottish Borders for a journey into discovering what the Borderlands have to offer. We are delighted we have been able to supply Borderland Tours with their tartan Borderland Scottish waistcoats and caps!
Find out more on The Allanton Inn website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter/X.
Visit Borderland Tours on their website here.
Cringletie House Hotel
Crossing to the other side of the Borders and equi-distant between our Duns Showroom and Edinburgh shop, the little village of Eddleston outside Peebles is where you will find another hidden gem. Cringletie House dates right back to 1666 when Sir Alexander Murray of Black Barony obtained a Crown charter of the land and had a house built for his second son. It is said that the word Cringletie derives from the name Crelenge, a landowner who lived in the area in the 13th century, or perhaps reflects a certain naval knot. The Murray name continued even after the house fell into disrepair and Brigadier General James Wolfe Murray took on the challenge of replacing it 2 centuries later. The male members of the Murray family consisted mainly of army officers and during one of the battles at Quebec (1759) Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Murray and General James Wolfe fought together. Wolfe was Godfather to Murray’s son, christened James Wolfe Murray, and from that time onwards the name Wolfe Murray has been in existence.
Indulging our love of the clans, cue the Sutherlands, who came on the scene in 1904 when Elizabeth, one of the Brigadier's daughters married Sir George Henry Sutherland and if you visit Cringletie you can still see the incredible ceiling which was commissioned to commemorate the wedding. The house was then transformed from a Victorian family home to a grand country house when James Wolfe Murray's grandson leased Cringletie to his brother-in-law, Sir George Sutherland. Another thing that remains today are the beautiful trees and thousands of daffodils that were planted by Sir George and his son.
The Sutherlands left Cringletie in 1962 following the death of Lt-Col Arthur Sutherland and the estate was broken up and sold. The house, woodland, Walled Garden and back field, 28 acres in all – were acquired by Dr George Morris of Edinburgh in 1963 for use as a nursing home. It wasn't until the Maguire family took over in 1971 that Cringletie was transformed into a highly acclaimed country house hotel. Mrs Maguire was head chef and famous for her Sunday lunches. The Maguire’s head gardener, Nick Cross, developed the Walled Garden into a spectacular vegetable and herbaceous paradise, well known throughout the Borders.
After they retired and a few years later, Jacob and Johanna van Houdt moved in with a plan to refurbish the property to create a luxury hotel. Improvements to the grounds were part of the project, including tree planting, the creation of woodland walks and the restoration of the historic Walled Garden which dates back to the estate’s original establishment in 1666. To honor the history of the house and its inhabitants, the van Houdts commissioned the design of a Cringletie tartan. A mixture of the Murray and Sutherland tartans, the Cringletie tartan has been used in the design of carpet in the hall and main staircase and uniforms for some estate personnel. The check is taken from the Murray tartan, the red line made a little softer and the blues and greens are derived from the Sutherland tartan.
The tartan remains proudly in place and Cringletie is now owned by Cross Hotels who took up the reins in February 2019 and have continued the development of this beautiful hotel and grounds to this day. This is a hotel but still feels like a country house with shared areas for guests making you feel like you are at home, just a very nice home with highly attentive staff on hand to look after your every need. Luxury!
Wedding Venues in the Scottish Borders
Wedderburn Castle
If you are contemplating a wedding or special event, just a mile or so from ScotlandShop HQ in Duns is Wedderburn Castle, where you can have the whole venue to yourselves complete with ballroom and a fabulous sweeping stone staircase so you can really make an entrance. With accommodation for your guests in the castle and on the estate in picturesque cottages the Wedderburn events manager can help you arrange all the special details. Designed and constructed 1771-5 by the famous Scottish architect brothers Robert and James Adam, our favourite fact about Wedderburn Castle is that it has 365 windows, one for every day of the year.
Duns Castle
Owned by the Hay Family since 1696, Duns Castle has been standing proud since the 14th Century, set within 1200 acres of stunning scenic woodland and gardens, and providing a truly unique and private location for a very Scottish wedding. The Castle offers exclusive use for weddings and events, with a stunning dining room overlooking the lawns and famous "Hen Poo" lake. Wedding ceremonies can take place in the Great Hall or the larger Main Drawing Room which is full of period features and home to an impressive fireplace. If you are lucky enough to be staying in the Castle you can enjoy fabulous internal vistas and Gothic plasterwork. If an outdoor wedding is in your dreams, the front lawn provides the perfect spot with the stunning Castle as your backdrop. If you need any confirmation of the impressive credentials of Duns Castle, then you will be reassured that it was also the filming location of Mrs Brown where it doubled as the both Balmoral and Windsor Castles.
Tours & Tour Guides
Tweed Valley Blogger
Tweed Valley Blogger is run by Stewart Wilson who is a tour guide and blogger based in the Scottish Borders.
Stewart is passionate about being from the Borders and shares our love for this hidden gem, and is equally enthusiastic in telling the world about it. He started on social media, sharing his photos and words inspired by his childhood in the Borders. As his interest in Scottish history, culture and geography grew, he realised he needed a new platform to showcase his content. That was the start of Tweed Valley Blogger in 2022!
Stewart left his corporate job in 2023 to set up TVB Tours to offer bespoke, tailored private tours of Scotland (and not just the Scottish Borders). He has showcased the Borders on BBC One's Escape to the Country and Radio 4's Ramblings with Clare Balding! You'll be in great hands with Stewart, he knows the Borders inside out.
For more info and to connect with Stewart visit his website here. For Stewart's feature on our Clan Wilson stories blog recently, click here!
Let us know if you visit the area and if you enjoyed any of our suggestions! We would love for you to drop in to ScotlandShop HQ to chat all things tartan, ancestry and clans, too. You can book your appointment online or just drop in.
Image Sources:
Lotus Formula 1 car, Jim Clark Museum Duns cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Jim Barton - geograph.org.uk/p/6231053
Borders Book Festival bookshop - Lloyd Smith Photography
Borders Book Festival Harmony House - Lloyd Smith Photography
