Where words come alive... Scotland starts here
We are proud to call Melrose the home of the Borders Book Festival
Four magical days at Harmony Gardens in the shadow of the Eildon Hills and Melrose Abbey provide the perfect introduction to this lovely little town in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Just as the Borders Book Festival has something for everyone, the Scottish Borders promises to keep you entertained, enthralled and enchanted too. With world class activities and attractions on our doorstep, and picturesque Border towns renowned for their fascinating history, common ridings, tweeds, knitwear and rugby waiting to be explored!
Why not start exploring, stay a little longer and come back again…
EXPLORE MELROSE
The town of Melrose sits next to the River Tweed and at the foot of the triple peaks of the Eildon Hills; a distinctive landmark of the Scottish Borders.
Melrose is a great place to explore, with some of the finest independent shops in the country including antique and interiors shops, bookshop, boutiques, crafts and jewellery shops as well as being a foodie’s paradise with a butcher, bakers, deli, wine shop, restaurants, cafes and coffee shops.
TRIMONTIUM MUSEUM
The Romans established a major auxiliary cavalry fort known as Trimontium; 'Place of the Three Hills’. The Three Hills Roman Heritage Centre houses the award winning Trimontium Museum which is dedicated to Roman life in Scotland.
MELROSE ABBEY
Melrose Abbey dates from 1136. Discover a place so beloved by Robert the Bruce, he chose it as the final resting place for his heart. Melrose Abbey is a magnificent ruin on a grand scale, and it was a highly desirable place to be buried. The town grew up around the present site of the Abbey.
MELROSE SEVENS
The town is also the home or rugby sevens and hosts the renowned Melrose Sevens in spring. The first tournament took place in 1883, and the event is famous internationally, attracting teams from all over the world.
Stories start here
Whilst we passionately celebrate modern day storytellers at Borders Book Festival, this area is steeped in rich storytelling tradition. From the Border ballads which were told through oral storytelling to a literary heritage which includes Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, James Hogg and J.M. Barrie, whose stories were inspired by and about the landscapes that surrounded them in the South of Scotland.
Just three miles from Melrose and sitting on the banks of the River Tweed, Abbotsford is the extraordinary home of the 19th century novelist Sir Walter Scott, where he became the biggest-selling author of his day and the fashion for Scots Baronial architecture began. A must-visit attraction, immerse yourself in Scott’s home, explore his beautiful gardens and enjoy riverside and woodland walks.
