From City to Storybook

Step into a land of ancient abbeys, storybook castles and peaceful countryside - just a short trip from Edinburgh or Glasgow

“There’s a hush in the Borders that speaks louder than cities—where childhood summers, ancient stones, and stories passed down by the fire still live in the wind.”

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Mad about Scotland? Spread the cheer! Today’s newsletter celebrates the beauty, culture and spirit of Scotland, from its rugged landscapes and ancient castles to its rich traditions and flavours. Know someone who dreams of Scotland too? Spread the magic by forwarding this to a friend - they’ll love discovering a wee bit of Scotland in their inbox!

Abbotsford House near Melrose in the Scottish Borders - Shutterstock

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In today’s email:-

• From City to Storybook

• Discover Amazing Scotland By Rail

• Around the Web: The Heart of a King and the Soul of the Borders; Sir Walter Scott’s Abbotsford; Scotland’s Secret Places and more…

• Everything you need to know about visiting the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: Do you know the story of the Stone of Destiny?

• Scottish Food You Will Love: How to bake the PERFECT scone

• Coo Wee: The dramatic and beautiful Scottish Borders

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From City to Storybook

Just beyond the buzz of Edinburgh and not far from Glasgow lies a region that feels plucked from the pages of a well-worn tale. The Scottish Borders is a place of ivy-draped abbey ruins, turreted castles still echoing with centuries of stories, and gently rolling hills that seem to hum with history. In less than an hour from Edinburgh - or a leisurely two-hour drive from Glasgow - you’ll find yourself trading traffic lights for timeless landscapes and city chatter for birdsong and the whisper of the River Tweed.

This southern stretch of Scotland, resting quietly along the English border, is often overlooked - but it’s rich with the kind of beauty and legend that inspired writers like Sir Walter Scott. The region boasts some of the country’s most atmospheric sites, including the hauntingly romantic Melrose Abbey, the stately Thirlestane Castle, and the story-laden towers of Smailholm. With scenic riverside walks, sleepy market towns, and a pace that invites you to breathe deep and slow down, the Borders is a living storybook - quietly waiting to be read.

Pentland hills, Scottish borders with purple heather covered valley to hills - Shutterstock

Discover Amazing Scotland By Rail

Let’s go on a captivating journey through the heart of Scotland with twelve distinctive train experiences showcasing the country's breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and nostalgic charm. From the iconic West Highland Line, famed for its Harry Potter connections, to the scenic delights of the Far North Line, each railway adventure offers an immersive exploration of Scotland's diverse terrain, including rocky shorelines, Highland villages, and panoramic views of mountains, forests, and lochs.

The Strathspey Steam Railway - Love to Visit Scotland

Around The Web

The Heart of a King and the Soul of the Borders

Melrose Abbey, founded in 1136 by Cistercian monks, is famed as the burial place of Robert the Bruce’s heart. The abbey ruins are among the most beautiful in Scotland, showcasing intricate stonework and medieval charm. It's a key stop on the Borders Abbeys Way.

Sir Walter Scott’s Abbotsford

Abbotsford was the home of Sir Walter Scott, the writer who redefined Scotland’s image through his romantic novels and poems. Located near Melrose, the house is filled with historical artefacts and personal belongings. It remains one of the Borders' most visited attractions.

The Grandeur of the Dukes of Roxburghe

Scotland’s largest inhabited castle, Floors Castle, stands proudly near Kelso. Built in the 18th century, it blends Scottish baronial and Georgian architecture. The castle is still the residence of the Duke of Roxburghe and open to the public for tours and garden strolls.

Where Mary, Queen of Scots Lingered in History

Jedburgh is known for its grand Augustinian abbey and its connection to Mary, Queen of Scots, who stayed here in 1566. Visitors can explore the Mary Queen of Scots House, a museum dedicated to her dramatic life. The town’s rich past is echoed in its historic streets.

Dramatic Cliffs and Seabird Cities

St Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve is a haven for puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, with clifftop views that steal your breath away. Just a short walk from the fishing village of St Abbs, it’s a top spot for wildlife watching and coastal hikes. It’s part of the Berwickshire Coast’s conservation effort.

A Panorama Loved by a Legend

Overlooking the River Tweed and the Eildon Hills, Scott’s View was a favourite of Sir Walter Scott. It’s said his horses paused here on his final journey home out of habit. The view remains one of the most iconic in the Borders, steeped in literary lore and natural beauty.

Scotland’s Secret Places

Scotland is a land full of ancient stories, dramatic landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions. Most people visit places like Edinburgh, Loch Ness, or the Isle of Skye—and don’t get us wrong, they’re brilliant. But what if you could go a wee bit deeper? What if your next adventure led you to places most travellers have never even heard of?

Crovie, Aberdeenshire – A Village Frozen in Time - Love to Visit Scotland

Top Experiences In Scotland Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

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🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

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From Social Media

Do you know the story of the Stone of Destiny?

Scottish Food You Will Love

How to bake the PERFECT scone

Coo Wee

The dramatic and beautiful Scottish Borders

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