Millennium Viewpoint, Kelso
Description: This viewpoint was, as its name suggests, constructed to commemorate the Millennium, and by its construction an extra tourist attraction was added to enable visitors and locals alike to enjoy the views over the town of Kelso. From an initial suggestion by two members of the Kelso Laddies� Association, Tom Weatherston and Gordon Little, the idea was brought, through Denys Mitchell�s ...
Type: Scenic
Edie Ochiltree's Grave, Roxburgh
Description: This is the grave of Andrew Gemmels, the blue-coat gaberlunzie, who died at the age of 106, and upon whom Sir Walter Scott based his character, Edie Ochiltree in "The Antiquary". On the gravestone are the words: "Behold the end o' it � The body of the gentleman beggar ANDREW GEMMELS alias EDIE OCHILTREE was interred here who died at Roxburgh Newtown in 1793 aged 10...
Type: Visitor-Attractions
Kelso Bridge
Description: This bridge which crosses the Tweed, was designed by John Rennie of Haddington. His design is unusual in that it has a level road over semi-elliptical arches. Opened in 1803, the bridge has its Toll House on the town side. This demand for tolls led to the reading of the Riot Act in 1854, when the townspeople, tired of paying for the bridge, whose cost they reckoned had long since ...
Type: Scenic
Kelso Pottery
Description: Kelso Pottery was set up in 1970 by Ian and Elizabeth Hird. Ian produces a range of domestic ware which includes mugs, jugs, bowls, plates, vases and baking dishes which are intended for everyday use. They are smooth of surface, extremely hard-wearing and richly decorated. Ian has also produced his unique 'time-tablets' whose images combine to stimulate awareness of the ...
Type: Crafts
The Gypsy Palace, Kirk Yetholm
Description: The traditional home of the King of the Gypsies, the Palace is probably the last of a line of previous Palaces. There was certainly an "Old Palace" across the Kirk Yetholm Green from the last one. It has been modernised almost beyond recognition and has for some time been a self-catering holiday home. Ownership: Now a private property, not open to the public. Situati...
Type: Visitor-Attractions
The Gypsy Memorial, Kirk Yetholm
Description: Unveiled in 2003, this piece of stone from Blinkbonny Quarry, stands as a memorial to the Gypsies of Kirk Yetholm, and at the same time to Tom Tokely, a renowned local historian with a special interest in and knowledge of the Kirk Yetholm Gypsies. Situation � OS ref: NT 828282 How to get there: By car: In the village of Kirk Yetholm some 8 miles south of Kelso. The memorial...
Type: Visitor-Attractions
The Junction Pool, Kelso
Description: One of the finest salmon beats on the River Tweed is where the River Tweed and the River Teviot meet. This is the Junction Pool. In the year 2001, a very attractive, and comfortable seat, was placed on the bank above the pool, for those interested in watching the boatmen and their clients pitting their wits against those of the salmon. Within easy walking distance of the town, th...
Type: Scenic
Kelso Abbey
Description: Ruins of the west end of the great abbey church built in 1128 by the Tironesian monks from France. Only fragmentary remains after its repeated destruction by the English, but still an impressive structure. Ownership: In the care of Historic Scotland. Situation: OS ref: NT 728338 How to get there: By car: Within the town of Kelso. By public transport: Kelso is we...
Type: Abbeys
Walking in Kelso
Three short walks, all starting from the Square, which will take you to all the places of interest, old and new. You will cross Rennie's Bridge, see the beautiful view of the Junction Pool and beyond to Floors Castle and have the opportunity to head out of town, either to the ruins of Roxburgh Castle or up to the Millennium Viewpoint and beyond. Visit the Kelso Walks website Places to ...
Type: Walking
Lempitlaw Old Parish Churchyard
Description: The site of the former 13th century parish church can still be made out as a turf-covered two cell structure close to the centre of the churchyard. The smaller of the two cells represents the former chancel, where the priest officiated, and inside is a well preserved hogback tombstone. Scandinavian settlers developed this rare form of burial monument in the 10th � 12th century. Al...
Type: Archaeological-Sites
Mellerstain House
Description: Superb Georgian House by William and Robert Adam with exquisite plaster ceilings, beautiful period furniture, and a marvellous art collection. It is the home of the Earl and Countess of Haddington. Ownership: Private - The Mellerstain Trust Situation � OS ref: NT 647390 How to get there: By car: Turn left off the A6089 Kelso to Gordon road, 6 miles north west of Kelso. ...
Type: Historical-Buildings
Roxburgh Castle
Description: The ruins of the famous castle of Roxburgh, favourite of Scottish kings, seated on its massive grassy mound between the Rivers Tweed and Teviot. Ownership: On Roxburghe Estates land. Situation: On the banks of the River Teviot, about one mile out of Kelso. OS ref: NT 712337 How to get there: By car: Drive over Kelso Bridge going South, turn immediately along the A699...
Type: Archaeological-Sites
Smailholm Church
Description: Founded by David de Olifard in the 12th century and subsequently granted to the Benedictine monks of Coldingham priory. The exterior still shows much of the original stonework, particularly in the east end which still has three Norman windows. Ownership: Church of Scotland Situation � OS ref: NT 649364 How to get there: By car: In the village of Smailholm, on the B639...
Type: Archaeological-Sites
Smailholm Pottery
Trading as KINSMAN BLAKE CERAMICS, SMAILHOLM Description: Pottery producing hand thrown items which are individually painted. Also paintings and woodcuts. Group demonstrations by arrangement. Ownership: Private Situation: OS ref: NT648364 How to get there: By car: In Smailholm Village. Park at roadside. By public transport: Regular, if infrequent, bus service, Kelso to Ea...
Type: Crafts
Smailholm Tower
Description: This is a well preserved and well restored border tower house dating from the 15th century. Situated on Sandyknowe Farm, it is visible for miles around. Formerly the home of the Pringles of Smailholm and later that of the Scotts of Harden, it was well known to Sir Walter Scott who came to Sandyknowe regularly to visit his grandfather. The tower was surrounded by a barmkin wall, wh...
Type: Historical-Buildings
Teviot Smokery, Coffee Shop and Water Gardens
Description: This is a 3-level water garden overlooking the River Teviot. 3 river walks and bird hide. Coffee shop and smokery attached. Newly extended shop and coffee shop with garden centre added outside. Ownership: Private Situation: OS ref: NT 708273 How to get there: By car: Situated on the A698, Kelso to Jedburgh road, some two miles beyond Heiton. Signposted. By public tr...
Type: Gardens
Floors Castle and Gardens
Description: Floors is the largest inhabited castle in Scotland and the home of the Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe and their family. Ownership: Private Situation: In the town of Kelso. OS ref: NT 711346 How to get there: By car: Up Roxburgh Street from Kelso Square. Gates are facing you. By public transport: Kelso has excellent bus services linking to Edinburgh, Berwick upon Tw...
Type: Historical-Buildings
