When thinking of the perfect scenic winter escape, your mind may flash to the likes of the 2006 classic The Holiday, where the quaint Rosehill Cottage perches neatly on a country lane, surrounded by stunning woodland.
But if the Surrey village is a little over-done for your tastes, we suggest looking to the Scottish Borders instead, where you’ll find the bustling little market town of Kelso.
Dubbed by the House of Bruar as the most picturesque Scottish town to visit this winter, Kelso has appeared in historical records from as far back as 1128, and has a rich heritage for such a small area.
It boasted 182,000 Instagram hashtags in the research, making it a popular choice for visitors looking to wander charming streets lined with snow and pick up some local market goods.
Just a short ride away from the likes of Edinburgh and Newcastle, Kelso would make the perfect day trip or staycation spot for those looking for a festive getaway.
What to do in Kelso
There’s no shortage of things to explore in Kelso, the first being the local farmer’s market which takes place on the last Saturday of every month (with the next being December 21).
Held in the town square, which is the largest cobbled town square in Scotland, there’s plenty of fresh produce and locally made clothing for you to indulge in.
Just a stone’s throw from the square, you’ll find Kelso Abbey, founded by monks invited by King David I in 1128. While part of it is in ruins today, it still remains a gorgeous site to behold.
The Abbey was also one of the richest in Scotland — and the best part is, it’s free to visit.
Sitting just outside of the town of Kelso is Floors Castle – the largest inhabited castle in Scotland – home to the 11th Duke of Roxburgh.
You won’t be able to tour the castle if you’re visiting after October 1, but the walled garden, the surrounding woodland and riverside paths and the Apple Shed gift shop are open year-round.
If you’re one for cycling, there are plenty of scenic routes to choose from, or you can meander round the grounds with a cup of steaming hot chocolate in hand.
We can’t forget the high street either. In the historic town centre among stunning Georgian and Victorian buildings, there are more than 50 independent shops — from an ice cream parlour to country clothing and a traditional butchers.
Visit Threads of Kelso for handmade rugs and cushions, or the reported ‘best gift shop in the Scottish Borders’ – The Mole House – for a Christmas gift with a difference.
What’s on in Kelso in December?
If you want to know about any festive activities in Kelso for the month of December, look no further.
Attend a Festive Wreath Workshops at Floors Castle from December 5, to December 7 for £65.
Watch a game of Ice Hockey at Border Ice Rink on December 7 for free.
Enjoy the Kelso Races – Scottish Borders National Day – on December 8, for a £15 entry fee.
Lastly, get some retail therapy at a Christmas Shopping Event on December 14 and 15, in Tait Hall, where you’ll find children’s activities, a funfair and live music.
Where to stay in Kelso
If budget isn’t an issue for you, there are some gorgeous stays available in Kelso, but also plenty of affordable options we’ll get to too.
First up is Linen House & The Scott Apartment, which starts at £1,525 for three nights. It’s a sophisticated Grade II listed townhouse apartment on the edge of the town square, boasting five bedrooms and a stunning kitchen diner.
You could also opt for a stay at Head Gardener’s House at Floors Castle, which was lovingly restored by The Duchess of Roxburgh, set in the walled garden. This starts at £811 for three nights.
On the more affordable end of the spectrum are properties like Fairnington East Wing, which sleeps four for £133 per night — although it’s a little drive outside of Kelso.
If you prefer hotels, the Schloss is a great option, with the Historic Manor, where rooms start from £201 per night, the Estate House, starting at £215 or self-catering cottages which start from £290.
The hotel has a well-equipped spa for the days when you just want to relax — including a heated outdoor swimming pool, a championship golf course and activities such as fishing, shooting, archery and croquet.
What do visitors say?
Those who have visited Kelso shared glowing reviews, branding it ‘gorgeous’ and calling it ‘an interesting and beautiful place to visit’.
When it comes to Floors Castle, visitors on Tripadvisor called it a ‘beautiful place’ with ‘lovely walks’ and ‘amazing’ gardens.
How to get to Kelso
If you’re travelling from London, train will be the best bet (unless you fancy the seven-hour drive), with the nearest mainline stations being Berwick-Upon-Tweed and Edinburgh.
From London to Berwick-Upon-Tweed it’ll take you about four hours, and tickets start at £52.
If you opt for Edinburgh it’ll take just over four hours with some tickets (via the budget Lumo operator) priced as low as £24.
You can then get Borders Buses to Kelso — and once you arrive, there are plenty of taxis to ferry you round.
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