Attractions and Places To See around Bowden Village - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Bowden Village, located in the Scottish Borders, encompass a range of historical landmarks and natural features. The village is situated near the iconic Eildon Hills, which offer hiking terrain and panoramic views. Historical sites like Bowden Kirk and the 1531 Market Cross reflect the area's heritage. This region provides a diverse landscape for exploration, blending cultural significance with natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Bowden Village
- The most popular attractions…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Melrose Abbey
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Eildon Hill North
Highlight • Summit
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Eildon Mid Hill Summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Leaderfoot Viaduct
Highlight • Bridge
Opened in October 1865, this bridge for trains has 19 arches, each with a span of 13 meters.
As a building material served bricks, which have blocks …
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Temple of the Muses
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From a distance, the roof of the building, which stands on a small hill, and the striking red columns shimmer through the trees. The architecture could indicate a small round temple or a pavilion. As you get closer, you can see people inside - no, there are statues placed there! "THE MUSE OF NATURE" is the title of the work of art.
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If you are visiting the Scottish Borders, you might want to check out the Temple of the Muses, a charming rotunda that overlooks the River Tweed near Dryburgh Abbey. It was built in 1817 by the 11th Earl of Buchan, a passionate admirer of the poet James Thomson, who wrote The Four Seasons and Rule Britannia. The temple has nine columns, each inscribed with the name of one of the nine muses of Greek mythology, and a bust of Thomson on top. You can reach the temple by following the signs from the William Wallace Statue or crossing the Chain Bridge from Dryburgh Village
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Eildon Hill North is an historic, photogenic and widely visible landmark in the Scottish Borders. At 1325 feet (404 m) this peak is the second highest of the three Eildon (pronounced ‘Eeldon’) Hills located just south of Melrose. The significance of Eildon Hill North was recognised by Bronze Age and Iron Age peoples and by the Romans. This peak was the site of the largest Iron Age hill fort in Scotland. Up to 2000 people are thought to have lived here at the same time. Today the pockmarks from hundreds of roundhouse platforms and nearly 1-mile of defences are still visible. When the Romans came in about 80 AD they built their mighty garrison fort called ‘Trimontium’ (named after the three Eildon peaks) immediately below Eildon Hill North and also placed a signal station on this summit. Trimontium was the largest Roman settlement north of Hadrian’s Wall. The short but steep climb up Eildon Hill North is well worth the effort! On a clear day you will be rewarded with stunning views. The popular St Cuthbert’s Way that runs from Melrose Abbey to Holy Island in Northumberland climbs over the col in the Eildon Hills and provides a pleasant way up Eildon Hill North.
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Nice gardens in the town, honesty box for purchase of fruit and veg. Apples are good
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This beautiful circular temple was built in 1817 by the Earl of Buchan (probably not with own hands, I gather?...) as a tribute to poet James Thomson. A beautiful place to stop at.
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Behold the awe-inspiring sight of the weathered ruins of Melrose Abbey. This impressive structure, founded by David I in 1136 for the esteemed Cistercian Order, stands as a testament to the early mastery of masonry. Sadly, in 1385, Richard II's army ravaged much of the abbey, but its remnants remain a captivating sight to behold. The abbey is open daily between 9:30am-5:30pm and charges a fee of £6.
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Famous old abbey that can be visited for a fee. However, the building is also beautiful to view from the street.
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The central and highest of the Eildon Hills Eildon Mid Hill stands at 422m and offers the best views. Look northeast to the Iron Age hill fort ramparts on the north hill, south over the smaller Wester Hill and north over Melrose. The three hills are a great run from Melrose, steep and punchy but not actually that high or far so perfect for a half day or pre/post work run. Great views and some good vert for the distance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Bowden Village?
Bowden Village itself is rich in history. You can visit the medieval Bowden Kirk, which features three bells and beautiful stained glass windows, along with an old kirkyard. The Market Cross, dating back to 1531, marks the village's historical significance as Scotland's first non-burghal market. The Bowden Village Well (1861) and numerous other listed buildings also contribute to its historic charm.
What natural features and viewpoints are prominent around Bowden Village?
The most prominent natural features are the iconic Eildon Hills. You can hike up Eildon Hill North, which offers stunning panoramic views and was once the site of Scotland's largest Iron Age hill fort. For the highest vantage point, ascend Eildon Mid Hill Summit, providing expansive views of the surrounding countryside and the geological formations of the hills.
Are there any significant historical monuments near Bowden Village?
Absolutely. Just a short distance away, you can visit the impressive, crumbling ruins of Melrose Abbey, founded in 1136 and believed to be the resting place of Robert the Bruce's heart. Another notable monument is the Waterloo Monument on Peniel Heugh, constructed between 1817 and 1824 to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo, offering beautiful panoramic views.
What engineering marvels can be seen in the area?
The Leaderfoot Viaduct is a remarkable sight. Opened in 1865, this railway bridge features 19 arches made of bricks with red sandstone foundations. Thanks to extensive renovations, it remains in very good condition and can be admired from nearby vantage points like the Drygrange Bridge.
What kind of hiking trails are available near Bowden Village?
The area around Bowden Village offers a variety of hiking trails, particularly in the Eildon Hills. You can find easy hikes that lead to Eildon Mid Hill Summit and Eildon Hill North. The popular St Cuthbert's Way also traverses the Eildon Hills, providing a pleasant path up Eildon Hill North. For more options, explore the easy hikes guide around Bowden Village.
Are there cycling routes around Bowden Village?
Yes, Bowden Village is a great base for cycling. There are various routes for both road cycling and touring bicycles. You can find routes that take you past landmarks like Melrose Abbey and Leaderfoot Viaduct. Discover more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Bowden Village and Cycling around Bowden Village guides.
What is the best time of year to visit the Eildon Hills?
The Eildon Hills offer beautiful scenery year-round. However, visiting in August is particularly rewarding as the heather is in bloom, adding vibrant colours to the landscape. Clear days provide the best panoramic views from the summits.
Are there family-friendly activities or walks near Bowden Village?
Many of the walks around the Eildon Hills can be enjoyed by families, with options for varying difficulty levels. The historical sites within Bowden Village itself, such as Bowden Kirk and the Market Cross, offer interesting educational opportunities for all ages. The short, steep climb up Eildon Hill North is well worth the effort for families seeking rewarding views.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Bowden Village?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views from the Eildon Hills, especially from Eildon Hill North and Eildon Mid Hill Summit. The historical significance of sites like Melrose Abbey and the unique architecture of the Leaderfoot Viaduct are also highly appreciated. The blend of natural beauty and rich history makes the area a popular destination.
Is there evidence of ancient settlements near Bowden Village?
Yes, the area has significant archaeological importance. Eildon Hill North was the site of the largest Iron Age hill fort in Scotland, with remnants of hundreds of roundhouse platforms still visible. Excavations have also found evidence of Bronze Age occupation. Additionally, the largest Roman settlement north of Hadrian's Wall, Trimontium, was located nearby.
Where can I find parking for attractions in Bowden Village and the Eildon Hills?
For Melrose Abbey, there is paid parking directly opposite the abbey, with free parking available a short distance away. For the Eildon Hills, visitors typically park in Melrose or Bowden Village itself, with various starting points for trails. Specific car park locations for trails can often be found in detailed route guides.
Most popular attractions around Bowden Village
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