20 Best Things To Do In Peebles Scotland
Peebles is a lovely small town located on the banks of the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders. This post will list the best things to do in Peebles.
The town is only a short drive from Scotland’s enchanting capital – Edinburgh. Peebles is an extremely unique location with spectacular cafes, events and outdoor activities to keep you entertained.
Also, Peebles has also been described as an artsy town, as many notable creatives such as John Buchan, have chosen to make their home in the town. The local motto for Peebles is ‘Peebles for Pleasure’.
The town is a favourite holiday destination for anglers and golfers. Walking along the High Street is an interesting thing to do as you can admire the magnificent architecture of churches and small buildings.
Also, you can admire the tweed bridge that stretches across the Tweed River. Or take a walk along to Hay Lodge Park which is located on the banks of the River Tweed just outside the small town centre.
Nearby Accommodation
Peebles: Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Gold & Spa, Barns Bothy, Coachman’s Cottage, The Hideaway
Dawyck Botanic Garden and Café
Dawyck Botanic Garden is a scenic garden and arboreta, which once belonged to the Balfour family. The house and grounds were given to the nation in 1978.
Now, the pond has been restored, and there is a visitor centre and cafe. The garden is lovely, with great views towards the house and easy walkable paths.
Unfortunately, the old estate house and chapel are privately owned. The modern tearoom is excellent, make sure you stop for a scone.
Tweed Valley Railway Path
This path is a great walk along the River Tweed. Also, the path is popular with cyclists.
The Tweed Valley Railway Path features Neidpath Castle and 600 metres of a disused railway tunnel.
Neidpath Castle
High above the River Tweed, you can find this 14th century Keep. The Keep was last updated in the 1600s.
Inside you can explore the dungeons, well, long-drops and fireplaces that are big enough to roast an ox. Also, there is a set of exquisite 20th century batiks, telling the story of Mary Queen of Scots.
By appointment, you can book a private tour including lunch and tea in the great hall. There is car parking available.
Neidpath Train Tunnel
Neidpath Train Tunnel is an abandoned train tunnel which is nearly half a mile long. William Scott was contracted to build the tunnel as part of the Peebles-Symington extension.
The tunnel was once considered the most impressive part of the rail line as it was built under South Park Wood. The tunnel was used in World War II to transport raw materials for the war effort.
Inside the tunnel, the darkness can be eerie and overwhelming. So, make sure you have a good torch with you.
To get to the tunnel, walk past Neidpath Castle, cross Neidpath Viaduct and walk 100 metres.
Bridge Inn
The Bridge Inn is a bright and roomy pub located right by the main bridge across the river. The pub is fantastic with a great selection of local beer and whisky.
Overall, the pub has a very friendly atmosphere, and it is a good place to spend some time. Also, dogs are welcome.
Coltman’s Kitchen, Deli and Bar
Coltman’s Kitchen is located in one of Peebles’ most historic buildings, which date back as far as 1711.
From the buildings, you can enjoy views of the stunning Peeblesshire countryside and beyond. Also, it is the perfect place to enjoy fresh food. The superfood salad is phenomenal!
The Old Parish Church Peebles
It will be hard to not notice the Old Parish Church standing tall in Peebles. The church is located on the High Street overlooking the Tweed Bridge.
Also, it occupies the site of Peebles mediaeval castle and dominates the town. The church was built between 1885 and 1887.
Cocoa Black Chocolate and Pastry School
Cocoa Black offers a wide range of Chocolate and Pastry Classes which are suitable for all levels of experience.
There is the best equipment, and the very best ingredients are used to make some goodies. Classes can be booked online here.
The John Buchan Story
The John Buchan Story is a small museum which explains the story of John Buchan through fascinating artefacts. John Buchan is one of Scotland’s most famous authors, mostly known for the ‘Thirty Nine Steps’.
Also, he was a prodigious writer of other material as well as becoming the Governor General of Canada.
Tweeddale Museum and Gallery
William Chambers was one of the founders of the famous publishing house and established the Tweeddale Museum and Gallery. All year round, there are lively programmes of exhibitions and events.
The exhibitions display information on the history of Peebles and the surrounding area.
Tweeddale Museum is located in a 16th-century building. On the lower levels of the building, you can find the library. Andrew Carnegie’s famously funded the library.
Moy Mackay Gallery
Moy Mackay graduated from the Glasgow School of Art and has lived in the Scottish Borders as a full-time artist.
The felt painting she creates combines her love of art with traditional felting techniques to create a very personal and innovative approach to visual expression.
At the gallery in Peebles, you can see beautiful, felted pieces of art. Also, you can see some ceramics and paintings which are great gift ideas.
Cross Kirk
Way back in 1241, a cross was found on the site of Cross Kirk. Later on, a stone urn was found on the same site which was thought to be the cremated remains of St Nicholas.
The 13th century church is now ruinous and is where the cremated bones of St Nicholas was thought to be.
Romanesque and Norman’s features are left of the picturesque structure. Also, you may be able to point out the remaining outline of the courtyard and aisle of the church.
1881 Distillery & Gin School
Here, you can learn about the history of Peebles Hydro and the history of gin production. The 1881 Distillery is well known for crafting some flavoursome premium gins including Hydro Gin, Pavilion Gin, Honours Gin, Rafters gin and Tiffin Gin.
The gin school is the largest residential gin school in the UK, offering a range of gin distillery and distiller experiences. Also, you can explore the gardens of Peebles Hydro.
Overall, the school is stunning, and it is great fun to create your own recipe. 1881 Distillery is one of the best gin distilleries in Scotland.
Peebles Art Festival
For the last 30 years, there has been an arts festival in Peebles. The festival has entertained visitors from far and wide with performances from all the arts.
Local performers, photographers and visual artists are all present at the festival. Moreover, you will find authors, theatre and film performances and craft fairs.
Kailzie Gardens
Kailzie Gardens features roses and fountains in beautiful 19th-century walled gardens. Also, there is an osprey viewing centre and burnside walks.
Plus, there is a well-preserved stable block including original cast iron dividers and feeding stations.
Make sure to stop and relax at the Kailzie Courtyard Cafe.
Horsburgh Castle
Horsburgh Castle is a small castle ruin which is located between Peebles and Cardrona.
To get to the castle you have to take a small detour. The detour is worth it on a clear day as you will get nice panoramic views.
Go Ape Glentress Forest
The Go Ape at Glentress Forest is the home of the highest zip wire in Scotland. The site is perfect in the dramatic Glentress Forest and woodland.
You will zoom over mountain bike trails and open water. The high ropes course allows you to explore the beautiful Scottish forests in a unique way.
7stanes – Glentress
Glentress is one of the famous 7stanes mountain biking trail centres. The award-winning trails attract bikers from all over the UK and beyond.
There is a wide range of trails to choose from to suit everyone from complete beginners to experienced riders. Also, there is a skills area to practise your technique.
The centre has over 150 mountain bikes that are available to hire. Alternatively, there are plenty of walking paths to follow at Glentress with views over the famous River Tweed.
Once all the exercise is completed, you can relax at the café which is built from timber.
Traquair House
Traquair House is Scotland’s oldest inhabited house. Dating back to 1107, 27 Scottish kings and queens have visited the house.
Since 1491, the house has been occupied by the Stuart family. At the estate you can wander around the grounds, visit the maze, craft workshops and garden cafe.
Also, you can visit the world famous Traquair House Brewery situated in the wings of the house and you can sample the ales at the brewery shop and museum.
On the weekends, the house is open for general admission, along with the grounds, cafe, shops and brewery. The house is available for a visit during the weekdays.
However, you will need to book onto a tour. There is plenty of car parking. Booking a tour of the castle will cost £9.
Borders Railway
The Borders Railway is a scenic railway which showcases the best landscapes from Edinburgh to the Scottish Borders. Borders Railway is not exactly located in Peebles.
However, it is an excellent way to see the Scottish Borders. The line is over 140 miles long and passes through 140 bridges and tunnels, including the Lothianbridge Viaduct and Redbridge Viaduct.
Great Polish Map
The Great Polish Map is a concrete map of Scotland which was created to say thank you to a Polish soldier.
At first you will not see the map and assume it is an area of low-lying boulders covered in lichen and moss. However, it is in fact a small model of Scotland.
A Polish Sergeant who was named Jan Tomasik was stationed nearby in World War II to defend Scotland from the Germans.
After World War II, Jan Tomasik remained in Scotland, then bought nearby Barony Castle and renovated it into a hotel.
As Tomasik was interested in Topography, he began the construction of the map in 1974. In 1979, the map was completed, and it measured over 160 feet by over 130 feet.
Tomasik hoped that more attention, including royalty would come to the castle to see the map, however, that did not happen.
What is Peebles famous for?
Back in 1387, Peebles gained royal burgh status and grew up in the shelter of the royal castle. The royal castle was a famous residence for Scottish Kings when they hunted in nearby Ettrick Forest.
Peebles is known for salmon fishing. Also, the scenic river side town has attracted many artists over the years.
Most notably, John Buchan, is one of the most famous Scottish authors of modern times. Another author who settled in Peebles is William Chambers.
Is Peebles worth visiting?
Peebles is a pretty town which is nestled into the west corner of the Scottish Borders. There is a whole list of things to do including a high ropes course, mountain biking trails, beautiful riverside walks and historic museums.
Is Peebles Scotland in the Highlands?
No, Peebles is located an hour drive south of Edinburgh. Or, one hour and twenty-minute drive from Glasgow.
Peebles is perfectly located on the River Tweed in the lowlands of Scotland. Peebles is a central hub for exploring the Scottish Borders.
How to get to Peebles?
Peebles is an easy hour drive from Edinburgh. Also, Peebles is an hour and a half drive from Glasgow.
Alternatively, you can use public transport to get to Peebles.
Catching the First Bus from Edinburgh city centre to Peebles, takes an hour and it is a beautiful scenic drive.
How to get around Peebles?
Peebles is a fairly small town, and everything is within walking distance. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas you can use public transport.
Final Note
Peebles is one of the most charming small towns in Scotland. Also, the town is easy to visit from the main cities including Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Some other great small town to visit is Dunfermline, Oban and Pitlochry. Moreover, Peebles is a perfect place for solo or group travellers.
Overall, this is a great town to base yourself during a trip to the Scottish Borders. There are many nice towns and villages in the Scottish Borders to explore or you can complete the Borders Historic Route.