Scottish Borders Road Trip Itinerary
The Scottish Borders road trip is a great way to explore the beauty of Scotland. Starting in Edinburgh, this 234-mile route takes you through historic towns, castles, and monuments, with stunning views and plenty of attractions along the way. The best time to take the trip is in the warmer months from April to September, when you can expect good road conditions and plenty of sunshine.
Your first stop is Peebles, a market town in the Scottish Borders region. Here, you can explore the ruins of Neidpath Castle, the banks of the River Tweed, and the shops and cafes of the High Street. The next stop is Hermitage Castle, a 13th-century fortress that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After that, you’ll pass through Berwick upon Tweed, a coastal town with a rich history and beautiful beaches. Finally, you’ll arrive in Dunbar, a harbor town with a stunning harbor and plenty of things to do.
This road trip is suitable for all drivers, but it is important to be aware of the border crossing along the way. The recommended time to complete the trip is three days, but depending on your budget and interests, you may want to spend more or less time.
3
number of days
376 km
route length
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budget
family
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traffic direction
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START
Edinburgh
Distance 377 km
Driving time 6.6 h
Pace: modest
98.1 kWh
Airports
EDI
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Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is an ideal starting point for the road trip named “Scottish Borders”. This historic city is home to many attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, a 12th century fortress which looms over Edinburgh’s Old Town and is the most visited tourist attraction in Scotland; the Royal Mile, the oldest part of the city; and the National Museum of Scotland, which houses artifacts from around the world. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Edinburgh Airport (EDI), which offers car rental services for those looking to explore Scotland’s scenic countryside.
As the start of the “Scottish Borders” road trip, Edinburgh is the perfect place to spend a few days exploring the city’s many attractions. Start off by taking a stroll along Princes Street, the main shopping area in the city, and take in stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the surrounding hills. The Royal Mile is a great place to explore the city’s past, with many museums and galleries to visit. For those looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy such as hiking, cycling, and rock climbing.
Whether it’s a quick stopover or an extended stay, Edinburgh is a great place to begin the “Scottish Borders” road trip. With its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and vibrant people, Edinburgh is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.
1
Edinburgh
- Peebles
Distance 44 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
11.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 27 mile long road trip from Edinburgh to Peebles, Scotland and explore some of the most iconic historical sites along the way. With a driving time of less than an hour, you will be able to take in the beautiful Scottish countryside and visit some of the most interesting places in this region.
Start your journey in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, and visit the world-famous Edinburgh Castle, built in the 12th century. You will also find the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British royal family in Scotland, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old and New Towns of Edinburgh.
Continue your journey to Peebles, a small town situated on the banks of the River Tweed. Visit the Peebles Hydro Hotel, the oldest hotel in Scotland, and take a stroll along the banks of the River Tweed. You will also find the Neidpath Castle, a 14th-century castle that was once the home of the powerful Tweedie family.
This is just one of the stages of your road trip and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready for a memorable road trip experience!
Peebles - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
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2
Peebles
- Melrose
Distance 37 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
9.6 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! The stage from Peebles to Melrose is a 23mi drive that will take you fewer than 1 hours. On your journey, you'll get to explore some of Scotland's most interesting historical sites. Start in Peebles, where you'll see the ruins of Neidpath Castle and the 12th-century St. Andrews Church. Then, make your way to Melrose, where you can explore the ruins of Melrose Abbey, the 12th-century Gothic-style abbey founded by Cistercian monks. Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking views of the Scottish Borders. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Melrose - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Melrose - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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3
Melrose
- Hermitage Castle
Distance 73 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: modest
18.9 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready to explore the stunning landscapes of Scotland as you embark on a journey from Melrose to Hermitage Castle. Enjoy a drive of fewer than 2 hours (45 mi) along the winding roads of the Scottish countryside.
Start your journey in Melrose, a charming village that was once home to the Cistercian monks of Melrose Abbey, who built a magnificent abbey here in the 13th century. Admire the ruins of the abbey and visit the nearby Melrose Town Hall.
Continue your journey to Hermitage Castle and explore the ruins of this 13th century castle. This castle was once home to William Douglas, Lord of Liddesdale, and was the site of many battles during Scotland's Wars of Independence.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and explore the beauty of Scotland!
Hermitage Castle - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Hermitage Castle
- Kelso
Distance 55 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
16.6 kWh
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If you're looking for a great road trip that takes you through some of Scotland's most interesting historical sites, then the Hermitage Castle to Kelso route is perfect for you! This 34-mile drive will take you less than an hour, and you'll be able to take in the sights of two of Scotland's most impressive castles. Hermitage Castle is an ancient fortress, built in the 13th century and steeped in history. The castle stands on a rocky outcrop, surrounded by a deep ravine and a steep bank, giving you a unique view of the Scottish scenery. Once you've taken in the sights of Hermitage Castle, you can continue your journey to Kelso, home to the impressive Floors Castle. This 17th-century castle is one of Scotland's grandest stately homes, and its gardens are some of the most beautiful in the country. As you drive along, make sure to take in the stunning views of the Scottish Borders. On your journey, you'll pass through some of Scotland's most picturesque towns and villages, and you'll be able to enjoy some of the country's best scenery. So, why not embark on an adventure and explore the beautiful Hermitage Castle to Kelso route? For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, take a look at the Itinerary of this stage.
Kelso - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Kelso - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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5
Kelso
- Berwick upon Tweed
Distance 37 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
9.7 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Kelso, Scotland to Berwick upon Tweed! This 23 mile journey takes less than an hour to complete and will take you across the Scotland-England border.
Start your journey in Kelso, a charming town known for its picturesque cobblestone streets and the ruins of a 12th-century abbey. The town also boasts a beautiful riverside park, where you can take in stunning views of the River Tweed.
Continue your journey to the historic town of Berwick upon Tweed, located on the English border. Here, you can explore the medieval walls and the Elizabethan ramparts, take a stroll along the quayside, and visit the Berwick Barracks, a museum showcasing the town’s history.
For more information, including attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the ‘Itinerary’ of this stage of the road trip.
Berwick upon Tweed - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Berwick upon Tweed
- St Abbs
Distance 21 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
5.4 kWh
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Embark on a 13mi road trip from Berwick upon Tweed in England, to St Abbs in Scotland and take in the beautiful sights of the countryside. This journey will take less than one hour and you'll cross the border between the two countries. As you drive, keep an eye out for historical sites, including Berwick Castle, the ruins of which still stand today. In St Abbs, you'll find the picturesque harbour, a great spot to take in the views of the coastline. You'll also find the St. Abbs Visitor Centre, which offers a great insight into the local history. For a more active experience, take a hike along the St Abbs Head Nature Reserve and marvel at the rugged beauty of the area. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage.
St Abbs - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
St Abbs - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.geograph.org.uk
St Abbs - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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7
St Abbs
- Dunbar
Distance 32 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
9.6 kWh
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Welcome to the amazing road trip stage from St Abbs to Dunbar! This stage of the tour is just 20 miles long and should take you less than an hour to complete.
St Abbs is a beautiful fishing village with a stunning coastline and many interesting places to visit, such as the St Abbs Visitor Centre and the St Abbs Nature Reserve. The Visitor Centre offers great information about the local wildlife and the area's history. The Nature Reserve is a great place to explore, with a variety of birds, plants and animals to discover.
As you continue your journey, you'll arrive in Dunbar. This historic town is home to many attractions, such as the John Muir Birthplace, the Dunbar Harbour and the Museum of Flight. The John Muir Birthplace is a great place to learn about the life and work of the famous naturalist, while the Harbour is a great spot to relax and take in the views of the sea. The Museum of Flight is a great place to explore the history of aviation and the area's role in it.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Dunbar - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Dunbar - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - Geograph
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8
Dunbar
- North Berwick
Distance 18 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
4.8 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey will take you from Dunbar to North Berwick, a distance of 11mi that can be covered in fewer than one hour. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of Scotland's most beautiful and interesting places.
Start your trip in Dunbar, a picturesque coastal town with a rich history. Visit the ruins of Dunbar Castle, the 16th-century harbour, and the John Muir Country Park, where you can take in the stunning views of the North Sea.
Continue your journey to North Berwick, a charming seaside town. Here, you can explore the ruins of Tantallon Castle, stroll along the harbour, and visit the Scottish Seabird Centre. If you're feeling adventurous, take a boat trip to the Bass Rock, a volcanic island and an important wildlife site.
We hope you have an enjoyable and memorable experience in these two beautiful towns. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage.
North Berwick - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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9
North Berwick
- Dirleton
- Edinburgh
Distance 59 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
17.8 kWh
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Welcome to the North Berwick - Dirleton - Edinburgh road trip! Let us take you on an exciting journey of 37 miles (fewer than 1 hour of driving time) through the most beautiful and historical sites of Scotland.
Start your journey in North Berwick, where you can visit the North Berwick Law, a volcanic plug and the ruins of a 12th century castle. Continue your journey to Dirleton, where you will find the Dirleton Castle, a 12th century fortification and the beautiful gardens of the castle. Finally, you will arrive in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland and the home of the world-famous Edinburgh Castle.
Along the route, you will find some UNESCO World Heritage sites that you should not miss. Make sure to pay attention to the historical sites, as they will make your journey even more interesting.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Edinburgh - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.publicdomainpictures.net
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Edinburgh
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Edinburgh is the final destination of the road trip named "Scottish Borders". It is the capital of Scotland and one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Located on the east coast of the country, it is a vibrant city with a great cultural and historical heritage.
The city offers many places to explore such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, the National Museum of Scotland, and Holyrood Palace. There are also many beautiful parks, gardens and monuments to discover, as well as a vibrant nightlife and a wide range of restaurants and cafes.
For those who plan to travel to Edinburgh by car, the city is easily accessible from the M8 motorway, which runs from Glasgow and Edinburgh to the south. It is also possible to reach Edinburgh by train from many cities in Scotland and the UK. The closest international airport is Edinburgh Airport (EDI) which is located about 10 miles from the city center.
Edinburgh is the perfect destination for a road trip. With its rich culture, history, and stunning views, it is sure to be a memorable experience for all travelers. From the fascinating museums and monuments to the lively nightlife and delicious restaurants, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. So why not end your Scottish Borders road trip in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.publicdomainpictures.net
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Scottish Borders Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Edinburgh
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End:
Edinburgh
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Distance:
376 km
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Stay:
3 days
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Getting there:
Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the heart of southern Scotland with the Scottish Borders Road Trip. This scenic 234-mile route, starting from Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, unfolds a tapestry of rolling hills, serene river valleys, and a historic landscape peppered with ancient ruins, stately homes, and charming market towns. As you traverse this storied region, you'll connect with Scotland's rich cultural legacy and experience the rugged beauty that has inspired artists, writers, and travelers for centuries.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Peebles: Explore the 14th-century Neidpath Castle and take in the tranquility of the River Tweed. The High Street in Peebles offers delightful local shopping and cozy cafes, set against a backdrop of Victorian and Georgian architecture.
- Hermitage Castle: Delve into the dramatic history of this imposing 13th-century stronghold, once a formidable border fortress. It stands as a stark reminder of the turbulent past between Scotland and England. Though not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its historical significance is undeniable.
- Berwick upon Tweed: Wander through this walled town's narrow streets, steeped in centuries of military history, and enjoy the serene beaches with views of the North Sea. Berwick upon Tweed has changed hands between Scotland and England over a dozen times.
- Dunbar: Known as the birthplace of the influential conservationist, John Muir, Dunbar offers visitors a charming harbor, maritime heritage, and opportunities for outdoor activities like golfing and birdwatching.
Best Time to Go:
The most favorable time for the Scottish Borders Road Trip is from April to September. During these months, you're more likely to experience milder weather, longer daylight hours, and the full bloom of Scotland's natural landscapes, enhancing the visual splendor of your journey.
Potential Risks:
Drivers should be aware of the local driving laws and customs, such as the single-track Roads prevalent in rural areas, which require careful navigation and courtesy to other Road users. Additionally, be prepared for quick changes in weather and carry appropriate gear for any unexpected shifts in conditions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Scottish Borders is renowned for its textile heritage, with the towns of Hawick and Galashiels being famous for their cashmere and woolen mills.
- The region is dotted with impressive abbeys, such as Melrose Abbey, where the heart of Robert the Bruce is believed to be buried.
- The Borders are also home to the Common Ridings, an annual tradition where locals on horseback ride the boundaries of their town, a custom dating back to the 13th century.
- Wild camping in Scotland is permitted under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, but always adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code to ensure environmental respect and sustainability.
A good choice for:
The Scottish Borders Road Trip is a spellbinding experience that caters to a diverse array of interests, from history and heritage to nature and relaxation. To fully immerse yourself in the spirit of the Borders, consider taking at least three days for the journey, allowing for spontaneous explorations and detours into the lesser-known corners of this enchanting region. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, this Road Trip can be tailored to create an unforgettable Scottish adventure.
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