Walk around the Scottish Borders
We’ve put together our picks of local attractions to peel you off the sofa. So grab your Wonky and get outdoors!
Harestanes Visitor Centre
Harestanes has an array of walks set in the Teviot Valley and is part of St Cuthbert’s Way. Its Alison and Ruaridh Dog’s favourite place to go running together with woodland, fields and the riverbank to explore. You also get a great view from the top of Peniel Heugh where the Waterloo Monument stands tall.
The newly-refurbished play park has over 50 exciting features for kids of all ages. Including a tower inspired by Jedburgh Abbey! There is also play equipment for children with additional needs including a wheelchair swing and a sensory boardwalk.
Warm up afterwards in the Visitor Centre cafe with a hot drink and some home-baked goods – dogs are welcome too! As well as the gift shop, there are studios on the estate. These are home to local crafters making jewellery, glassware and pottery.
Abbotsford House
Located on the banks of the River Tweed is Abbotsford House – the home of Scottish literary figure, Sir Walter Scott. There are over 120 acres of woodland on the estate to explore, as well as walks along the river and walled gardens. There is also a seven metre high wooden fortress for the kids!
Did you know Abbotsford is the newest Wonky stockist?! In the Visitor Centre you’ll find a range of our hats in merino, Shetland wool, and lambswool! The shop is stocked with other local, high quality gifts and some souvenirs sourced from around Scotland – we’re in good company!
Pop into Ochiltree’s cafe and warm up with a bowl of soup while overlooking the walled gardens. The menu is filled with seasonal, local ingredients – with some produce even growing in the estate’s gardens. Talk about fresh!
The Hirsel
Just outside of Coldstream is the Hirsel Estate. Featuring a golf course, a walled gardens and walks along marked routes. The Hirsel lake is home to hundreds of ducks and geese which call it home over the winter months.
The Cottage Tearoom serves up lots of tempting treats including Border cream teas, available all year round! There is also a museum depicting Border life and a gallery space featuring work from local artists. The Courtyard offers studio spaces which run creative workshops all throughout the year.
Keep cosy!
A special thanks to Rose and Julien for these beautiful images from one of their winter walks around Jedburgh.
There are so many wonderful walks on our doorstep, we are very lucky in the Scottish Borders. Wherever you head off to, make sure to wrap up warm. If you’ve got a Wonky on your head, tag us on Facebook and Instagram with #wonkywoolies and we’ll share your fun on our pages too, enjoy!
