Attractions and Places To See around Kelso - Top 20

Kelso is rich in history. You can visit Floors Castle, Scotland's largest inhabited castle, known for its opulent interiors and gardens. The impressive ruins of Kelso Abbey, founded in 1128, offer a glimpse into the town's medieval past. Further historical insights can be gained at the Roxburgh Castle Ruins, a 12th-century site overlooking the Tweed and Teviot rivers, and the Waterloo Monument on Peniel Heugh, which commemorates the Battle of Waterloo and offers panoramic views.

Yes, Kelso offers several family-friendly options. Floors Castle and its extensive grounds are suitable for all ages, with plenty of space to explore. The picturesque Yetholm Village is also considered family-friendly, offering a peaceful setting. Additionally, Springwood Park provides open spaces and walking paths perfect for family outings.

Kelso is beautifully situated at the confluence of the River Tweed and River Teviot, offering scenic riverside walks like the Cobby Riverside Walk. You can also visit Springwood Park for open green spaces. A short drive away, The Teviot Smokery and Water Gardens provide a peaceful escape with landscaped gardens. For more adventurous outdoor enthusiasts, the Cheviot Hills to the south offer fantastic hiking and nature experiences.

There are numerous walking opportunities around Kelso. The Borders Abbeys Way is a scenic long-distance route that passes through Kelso, connecting several historic abbeys. For shorter walks, consider the 'Old Railway Line – Roxburgh Viaduct loop from Kelso' or the 'Kelso Bridge – Kelso Abbey loop from Kelso'. You can find more hiking routes, including easy options, on the hiking guide for Kelso.

Absolutely. Kelso is a great base for cycling. There are various routes available, such as the 'Kelso Green Route' for an easier ride, or more challenging options like the 'Border Loop Trail' and the 'Yetholm and Jedburgh loop from Kelso'. For a comprehensive list of routes, refer to the cycling guide for Kelso.

Yetholm Village, composed of Town Yetholm and Kirk Yetholm, is historically significant as the traditional home of the kings and queens of the Scottish gypsies. It also marks the northern end of the Pennine Way, a famous long-distance walking route, making it a popular stop for hikers. The Border Hotel in Kirk Yetholm is a well-known landmark for those completing the trail.

To delve deeper into Kelso's past, visit the Kelso Museum. It houses exhibits that bring local history to life, offering insights into daily life and the unique spirit of the Scottish Borders. For more information on the museum's offerings, you can check wonderfulmuseums.com.

The Roxburgh Viaduct is a massive and imposing former railway bridge over the River Teviot. While it no longer carries trains, it is now open to pedestrians and cyclists, offering gorgeous views of the river in both directions. It's a notable man-made monument and a great spot for a scenic walk.

The best time to visit Kelso is generally from April to September when the weather is milder and attractions like Floors Castle and its gardens are fully open. This period also offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities along the rivers and in the surrounding hills. The town's market square is bustling, and events like the annual Border Union Agricultural Show take place in warmer months.

For breathtaking panoramic views of the Scottish Borders, head to the Waterloo Monument on Peniel Heugh. From its summit, you can see across the rolling landscape. The Roxburgh Viaduct also offers excellent vantage points over the River Teviot.

Many of Kelso's outdoor areas are dog-friendly, including the riverside walks along the Tweed and Teviot, and Springwood Park. While specific indoor attractions may have restrictions, the extensive grounds of places like Floors Castle often welcome well-behaved dogs in designated outdoor areas. Always check specific venue policies before visiting.