Scottish Borders

Introducing Scottish Borders

The history of Scotland has been played out along the Borders, from grisly territorial skirmishes to serene monastic monuments, all put to page by local hero Sir Walter Scott. The troubled relationship with the south stretches back to the Romans, with impressive castles and keeps evolving to stave off raiders. But it wasn't all warmongering: small burghs supported monastic communities in abbeys that served as centres of religion and scholarship from the 12th century. As borders lapped back and forth, abbeys and castles were destroyed by waves of raids, only to be rebuilt during peace.

Some of the most visited sites today are the ruins that have emerged from this turbulent history. Walkers and cyclists combine health and history to take in ruins on several trails, in between enjoying historic inns and coaching houses. The scenic River Tweed slices through the Borders creating some beautiful vistas, and there's also world-class fishing.

Day-trippers from Edinburgh and England's north know the Border's charms, but it's often overlooked by international visitors, so midweek travellers could have serene abbeys or eerie castles all to themselves.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009