Places to Visit
The best bit abut going somewhere new is the chance to explore. We've pulled together some suggestions of what's right on our doorstep, and be sure to ask our reception team for their recommendations too.
Prices quoted on our website were correct at time of checking, but please check the visitor attraction's website for their published prices to be sure.
Hiking Routes
Tinto Hill: The highest point in the surrounding hills, this popular route offers spectacular views across the countryside. The trailhead is located at the parking area off the A73, about 4 miles southeast of Symington. Postcode: ML12 6HQ.
Culter Fell: A challenging hike offering stunning views across the southern uplands. The trailhead is located at the small parking area on the A701, about 1 mile south of the village of Elvanfoot. Postcode: ML12 6SX.
Falls of Clyde: A picturesque walk along the river, taking in a series of stunning waterfalls along the way. The trailhead is located at New Lanark Visitor Centre, about 6 miles from Tinto Hotel. Postcode: ML11 9DB.
Coulter Reservoir: A peaceful and scenic walk around the tranquil Coulter Reservoir, perfect for a relaxing stroll in the countryside with your dog. The trailhead is located at the parking area off the A702, about 5 miles southeast of Biggar. Postcode: ML12 6HN.
Hartfell: A challenging hike taking in the summit of Hartfell and the stunning Hartfell Linn waterfall. The trailhead is located at the small parking area at the end of the public road from Broughton to Tweedsmuir. Postcode: ML12 6JF.
Tips: Be prepared for changes in weather and terrain, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and pack plenty of water and snacks. Always follow the countryside code and take care not to disturb wildlife. Enjoy exploring the beautiful Scottish countryside, and take your dog for a walk while you're at it!
The Kelpies
A majestic site that has to be seen in the flesh to be truly appreciated, The Kelpies have become a national treasure in the short time since they were created next to the M9 motorway at Falkirk. The mystical 30 metre high structures are built at the eastern entrance to the Forth and Clyde canals and represent Scotland’s long history of horse powered industry, particularly in the area the Kelpies stand proudly. 8 years in the making by Scottish architect Andy Scott, the Kelpies are part of The Helix land transformation project which aims to improve the links between communities in the area.
The Kelpies are always accessible to visit, but tours only run at certain times. The tours allow you to hear about the equine creatures and see the structures from the inside.
The Kelpies Tours run from month to month. Times vary between 10am and 5pm. There’s a chance that a reduced service for The Kelpies Tours will run during the winter months (October – March).
Prices: Adults £4.95, child under 5 free, child over 5 £3, concessions £3.95, family group (2 adults, 2 children) £15, carer/teacher free
Group ticket prices are also available online
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The Real Mary Kings Close
Deep beneath the streets of Scotland’ capital, lies another world of underground streets, spaces and vaults. The hidden closes of Old Town Edinburgh from the 1600s are full of ancient myths and tales of ghosts and murder. Take a tour of The Real Mary Kings Close to see the underground town for yourself.
Opening times: times vary from the summer to winter. For November 1st 2014 – March 20th 2015, opening times are Monday – Sunday 10am-5pm.
Prices: Adult £13.25, senior (60+) £11.75, student (with valid student ID) £11.75, child (5-15 years) £7.75.
Please note that this attraction is not suitable for children under 5, therefore they will not be admitted.
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Kailzie Gardens
Open throughout the year, see a variety of different flowers through the different seasons including daffodils, bluebells and an array of plants in their walled garden. Other attractions include a live viewing of the Tweed Valley Ospreys from Easter through the summer to August as well as a restaurant, a gift shop and more.
Kailzie also have a private 2-mile stretch of the River Tweed for fly fishing. For further information on this call 01721 720009.
Opening times:
Summer - End of March to end of October, Walled and Wild Gardens, Woodland Walks, 11a.m. - 5.30p.m.
Winter - End of October to March, Wild Garden and Woodland Walks during daylight hours. Please note that although the Woodland and Wild Garden are open for walks the Walled garden is closed during the winter months.
Prices: Adult £4.50, concession £3.50, child (5-12 years) £1.00, child (under 5 years) free
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Stewart Brewing
Established in 2004, Stewart Brewing is an independent craft brewery based on the outskirts of Edinburgh. Producing premium beers, these golden flavours are found in pubs in the Edinburgh area and north east of England. The brewery are always happy to welcome beer lovers for a tour of the brewery to learn all about crafting your own tasty ales.
Tours take place every Thursday and Friday at 7pm until 9.30pm and can be booked in advance.
Prices: Adult £15, £12 concessions. Prices include drinks, snacks and a beer glass to keep as a memento of your visit
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Velvet Hall Alpacas
To find out about attending workshops, contact Linda Lewin on 01721 760229.
Based in the heart of the beautiful Tweed Valley, venture into the world of Alpacas. You can simply visit to meet their beautiful Alpacas or go on a trek.
Opening times:
Monday – Friday 10am – 8pm
Saturday and Sunday 10am – 9pm
Prices: Contact details for pricing on website.
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Dawyck Botanic Garden
Visit one of the world’s most beautiful botanic gardens, home to many exotic seasonal plants and flowers all year round. There’s also an award-winning visitor centre.
Opening times:
Open daily from February 1st – November 30th from 10am – 4pm/5pm/6pm
Prices: Adults £6, concessions £5, child free, members free
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Moy Mackay Gallery
A visual feast for art lovers and for those who like to admire colours and beautiful landscapes, local artist Moy Mackay’s paintings are exhibited alongside a range of other artists local to the Borders and further afield. Moy’s paintings are inspired by her surroundings in hills and valleys of the Scottish Borders.
Opening times: Mon – Sat 10am-5pm
Entry free (TBC)
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Robert Smail’s Printing Works
Ever wondered how newspapers used to be printed a hundred years ago? Discover the history right here at a printing museum that still lives and breathes these traditional methods of bringing typography to life. Enjoy hands-on demonstrations by becoming a printer’s apprentice when you visit.
Opening times vary though out the year. Specific dates and times can be verified online
Prices: NTS members free, adult £6.50, concession £5, family pass £16.50
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