Discover the charming and historic little town situated in the heart of the Scottish Borders that is best explored in autumn
As we enter the autumn months, now is the perfect time to discover the spectacular Scottish scenery. During autumn, when the leaves turn gold and you start to feel a chill in the air, Scotland really comes alive. While summer benefits from warmer temperatures, autumn is arguably the prettier season.
Scots writer Sir Walter Scott described the border town of Kelso as one of the most romantic towns in Scotland” This time, we are Situated at the junction of the rivers Tweed and Teviot, Kelso is a market town that is as interesting as it is scenic. It’s just over an hour’s drive from Edinburgh and it is the perfect rural getaway for an autumn escape. Kelso is centred around a cobbled town square that is the largest in Scotland. Surrounded by stunning Georgian and Victorian architecture, there are plenty of independent shops to peruse, which sell everything from ice cream to fashionable clothes.
The real star of the show, though, is the wealth of beauty spots and historic sites located around and near the town. Amongst the standouts are the lavish Floors Castle and the ancient Kelso Abbey. Check out these stunning snaps of Kelso’s top attractions to visit. For more details, see VisitScotland.
Kelso town square
At the heart of Kelso lies a charming and historic town square, which is the ideal starting point for your visit. The square is surrounded by a plethora of independent shops where you could easily while away the hours. And if you fancy a sweet treat, there’s a popular ice cream parlour in town too.
Best time to visit?
Autumn is a fantastic time to explore Kelso, thanks to its array of parks and walking trails. There’s nothing quite like the crunch of leaves underfoot.
Kelso Abbey
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just appreciate beautiful scenery and architecture, Kelso Abbey is a must-see. This ruined abbey, thought to have been built in the 12th century, was once one of the country’s largest and richest religious centres.
Floors Castle
The grand Floors Castle, dating back to 1721, is Scotland’s largest inhabited house. Its stunning gardens and grounds are perfect for a family stroll, and if the weather takes a turn, you can head inside the castle to admire its opulent interiors.
Smailholm Tower
For those who enjoy a good stroll, the 15th-century Smailholm Tower is an ideal hiking destination. Once beloved by Sir Walter Scott, the four-storey tower that is just outside of Kelso, remains in impressive condition.
