A beautiful region of abrupt and rolling hills , sheep pastures, forested valleys and soporific rivers, Southern Scotland is the home of rugby, Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and spectacular castles and abbeys. For centuries this border country was the flashpoint of hostility between Scotland and England, but also a centre of commerce and religion. The monuments of these times represent some of the best medieval and Renaissance architecture in Europe. Still sparsely inhabited, the border towns contest their rugby reputations in winter and, with equal passion, celebrate ancient riding festivals in summer.
For walking routes in the Southern Uplands (see Southern Upland Way)-
Wonderfully eccentric collection of weaponry and historical bric-a-brac, collected by the great novelist Sir Walter Scott and displayed in his dream home.
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Comprising a museum and the writer’s cottage, this place of pilgrimage celebrates the life and genius of Scotland’s national poet.
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This massive triangle of crafted stone, still standing within a filled moat, is exceptional. Its towers and walls are remarkably complete, despite having lain in ruin for 400 years (see Caerlaverock Castle) .
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Modern classy dining room with conservatory and outside tables in summer. Everything from light snacks to haute cuisine.
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A thrilling collection of precious stones, crystals, minerals and fossils in a gem of a village.
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This cliff-edge castle was remodelled into a magnificent home for the Earls of Cassillis in 1777 by Georgian architectural master Robert Adam (see Culzean Castle) .
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This castle of turrets and spiked domes is home to the Duke of Buccleuch. Begun in 1676, it was such a lavish undertaking that it almost ruined the family, but they bounced back and filled it with treasures. Particularly enticing are the silverware and rich oak panelling. Great walks and cycleways in the vicinity.
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Located on a bend in the River Tweed, these are the most beautiful and evocative ruins in Southern Scotland. Founded in 1152, the abbey was destroyed by the English in 1322, 1344 and again in 1385, but each time it rose to magnificence once more, until it was finally consumed by fire in 1544. Despite having lain in ruin for 500 years, it is remarkably complete, and the quality of masonry is unbelievable. See it when shadows fall for the most spectacular views.
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An excellent, informal, award-winning restaurant. Chef Brian Murphy is dedicated to cooking with the best of local ingredients.
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Area of superb loch, forest and hill scenery. Take a picnic to the Bruce’s Stone or have a day out on foot or on bikes.
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Restaurant price categories
For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
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St Andrew's FestivalWhere better to celebrate St Andrew's Day than with the people of the city named after him. St Andrew's Day falls on 30 November each year, and the capital of Fife celebrates for a number of days... Read more
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Glamis CastleThe stunning architecture and beautiful gardens of Glamis Castle make it one of Scotland's leading visitor attractions. Inexplicably tied to the history and myth of the nation, Glamis has been open... Read more
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Flambeaux ProcessionThe Perthshire village of Comrie is ablaze at New Year when hundreds of locals gather in the village square for a ceremony of eight flambeaux (fired torches) which process around the village before... Read more
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Stonehaven Fireball FestivalEvery New Year at midnight, the Hogmanay celebrations in the town of Stonehaven centre around a large, fireball-swinging procession which marches through the town down to the harbour and then throws... Read more
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