Discover the Scottish Borders with your very own expert and qualified Scottish Tourist Guide. This carefully curated private tour delves into the heart of the Borders Abbeys, majestic ruins that whisper tales of faith, power, and architectural brilliance.
This private tour promises to be an unforgettable journey through time, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the architectural marvels and captivating stories of this remarkable region and its monastic past. King David I of Scotland (r. 1113-1124) was responsible for funding these abbeys as economic and social bulwarks against English aggression. But violent invasions between the countries, combined with raids by the gangster-like Border Reivers, ensured that few settlements developed in the Borders area. A quiet, pastoral landscape today, the Borders features pleasant towns to spend time in around the old abbeys. Highlights of this private tour include:
Melrose Abbey: A magnificent Cistercian monastery founded in the 12th century. Your knowledgeable guide will enthrall you with stories of the abbey’s turbulent past, from its periods of prosperity to its destruction during the border wars. Marvel at the intricate stonework and stand in the very spot where the heart of Robert the Bruce is said to be buried.
Dryburgh Abbey: A short drive away lies the romantic ruins of Dryburgh Abbey, a final resting place for many prominent figures in Scottish history. Explore the atmospheric grounds, where weathered headstones and crumbling walls whisper tales of times gone by. Your guide will share stories about the notable individuals buried here, including Sir Walter Scott.
Jedburgh Abbey: Jedburgh Abbey is testament to the power of the Church in medieval Scotland. This Augustinian abbey boasts impressive architecture, including a magnificent eight-pointed chapter house and a beautiful octagonal tower. Your guide will explain the abbey’s role in the region’s history and the impact of the Scottish Reformation.
Kelso Abbey: Kelso Abbey, another magnificent example of Border Romanesque architecture. Explore the expansive ruins, imagining the bustling abbey life that once thrived within these walls. Your guide will highlight the unique architectural features of Kelso Abbey, including its impressive tower and the beautiful red sandstone used in its construction.
The Scottish Borders also boast great castles of the nobility, some open to the public. Floors Castle is the majestic seat of the Duke of Roxburghe where you can admire stunning, historic interiors and extensive gardens. Your guide will share stories about the history of the castle and the prominent families who have called it home. Other splendid castles, country houses and gardens to visit in the Borders include Manderston, Mellerstain, Paxton House, Thirlestane and Traquair.
Come prepared to be captivated by the grandeur of the Scottish Borders Abbeys & Castles, their rich history, and the breathtaking landscapes that surround them. This is a two-day tour which can be tailored to your needs. Just speak with your guide who can design a tour just for you.
