Great days out across the Borders

Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum is an attraction that looks like a grand castle but inside is a different story! Visit the cell blocks of this 1820s jail and discover what life was like for prisoners and staff in what was a model prison in its day. The building is also home to Jedburgh’s town museum, exploring the traditions, industries and the lives of famous people of the town. Lots of children’s activities make this a fun family day out.

Nearby you will find Mary Queen of Scots’ Visitor Centre. Set in the centre of historic Jedburgh, this 16th century tower house tells the story of Scotland’s tragic queen. Mary’s month here in Jedburgh in 1566 was a turning point in her life. A fine display of paintings, objects and textiles associated with her explores not only her life and times but the cult that has grown up around her.

A 30-minute drive to Hawick and you will find Hawick Museum, in a park-land location and with fascinating displays that reflect the history of the town and its people. The 18th-century mansion house, which has been redesigned as the town’s museum, is home to objects and fine works of art collected that are not just about Hawick but a window on the world. There is also a lively programme of exhibitions and events for all ages.

At Borders Textile Towerhouse visitors can discover the knitwear and tweed history of the area and how the Borders’ industry reached the height of luxury and fashion. Garments, fabrics, objects, photographs, film and art reveal over 200-years of tradition and innovation in the Borders textile industry.

Selkirk is home to two Live Borders’ attractions that are just off the main street. Sir Walter Scott’s Courtroom is one of our direct links to the great Scottish writer. In this building, Sir Walter Scott sat as Sheriff of Selkirkshire, dispensing justice for nearly 30 years until his death in 1832. Visitors can explore the reconstructed courtroom and discover tales of past crimes. Halliwell’s House Museum, situated in the narrow, cobbled Halliwell’s Close, an unusual 18th century building is part of the oldest surviving row of dwellings in Selkirk, and tells the story of the town and its long history, including associations with William Wallace and the Battle of Flodden.

Set in beautifully landscaped grounds near the centre of Galashiels, Old Gala House is an impressive building dating back to 1583. Once home to the Lairds of Galashiels, the house is now a vibrant museum and gallery which tells the story of the town and its people. Programme of changing exhibitions and events.

Housed in an historic spa, the permanent exhibition at St Ronan’s Wells and Visitor Centre tells the story of Innerleithen and St Ronan’s Wells, describing their connections with the great Scottish writers James Hogg and Sir Walter Scott. Gardens, sculptures, picnic areas and plants for sale.

Tweeddale Museum and Gallery in Peebles wasestablished by William Chambers, one of the founders of the famous publishing house, this striking building is home to a museum and gallery which host a lively programme of exhibitions and events all-year-round with extraordinary plasterwork alongside exhibitions looking at the history of Peebles and the surrounding area.

The Jim Clark Motorsport Museum is a brand new and modern attraction, exploring the life of racing legend Jim Clark and his impact on motorsport, with trophies, memorabilia, photographs, film footage and some of the cars in which he raced. There’s also Duns Exhibition Room which features a seasonal range of exhibitions within the library building, with a variety of art and local history displays.

At Coldstream Museum uncover the story Coldstream Guards and the town of Coldstream, with artefacts such as the Provost’s Robes and Chain of Office. Located in the centre of Coldstream, it was the site of General Monck’s headquarters before he marched on London in 1660 to restore the Stuart Monarchy.