Superb Abbey, peaceful and historic (built in 1273). Can visit the insides of the abbey somewhat thought restrictions do persist owing to the ongoing masonry checks. Hope to revisit once fully open. It is staffed, guidebooks and postcards available to purchase (£3.50 and 60p for non-members, otherwise £2.80 and 48p). Worth a visit in conjunction with New Abbey Corn Mill (5 min walk, 2 min drive). Car park has lots of spaces, yet gets busy as it's a public car park and shared with the Bowls club, New Abbey Corn Mill has 4 spaces.

Unfortunately, due to on going restoration works, the public are not allowed to enter the abbey but you can walk around. Have a read about Lady Devorgilla before going or whilst there. You will find some Commonwealth graves in the grave yard and some very interesting old grave stones. New Abbey is always well worth a visit

A nice look around but was covered in scaffolding and closed off for the majority when I visited. It also states donations welcome, then when we walked on site got collared by someone working there stating it's a donations only, which was a bit misleading (I only wanted a picture to be honest).

Beautiful ruin, from inside the grounds and from inside the graveyard. When we went it was a beautiful day too which really helped the photos pop. I managed to get loads of good images which I'll attach a couple but honestly if your looking for something to do and like old architecture and old overgrown graveyards this is the place I got a few very gothicy pictures. Think I paid £2.50 to get inside the Abbey and didn't pay for the kids. Definitely worth a visit, even with Harris Fencing and Scaffold up inside the Abbey.

Great easy stop. Plenty of parking. Most of the Abbey is behind a fence but the cemetery is very interesting to walk around.

Ruins of an abbey in New Abbey. At the moment it is free to enter, but they are looking at charging in the future. There is a free car park just outside, but there are no other facilities at the site.

Historic Scotland were busy with restoration when we visited, still able to walk around the outside with the dogs, worth a visit if you like ruins

Very interesting museum about the lead mining in the area. It is worth doing the tour as the guides are very knowledgeable . Stuart was very interactive with the tour members. The cafe was exceptional. The food was well cooked and reasonably priced. There are toilets and a gift shop here. The car parking is free to customers, although the part by the museum is small there is an overflow slightly up the hill.

Fantastic and unique experience. Me and my husband had a great time despite the rain. Highly recommend the tour, our guide Stuart was so knowledgeable and entertaining. I've already talked a few colleagues into visiting.

just reading some of the comments and can only assume they went to the wrong place!! £20 for a tour, 1-1 1/2 hours... rent over heads tour guides wages....? hardly a rip off, your supporting something special its more than just a fee, Chris in at the main desk was very friendly chatty and accommodating the guide was Davie, outstanding local knowledge chatty helpful and again accommodating not to mention his poem reading!! the work in digging that mine out and extending the tour in its self is an achievement!! if ever you need a pair of hands to come dig please it would be an absolute pleasure!! yes its a remote location yes its relatively small, but it makes up for it with authenticity character and charm!! and the food at the café is perfect and not over priced! ill be back for sure! Will

Set in some amazing countryside, with a very welcoming atmosphere. I only expected a mine trip, and got a tour of the village with alot of history and a musuem. With an excellent little tea room serving Full Scottish Breakfasts, and some great walks in the area. Really is a good day out

It was an afterthought that we stopped at this place for a tour of the mines, but it should've been our main event. We were so impressed and had a great time! Our guide Steve was very friendly and informative. There is quite a lot to the mines and you will have to wear a helmet (you are likely going to hit your head as you can't quite stand straight through most of it), part of it drips a lot so take a jacket. Following the tour of the mines, we were guided to the cottages and the fascinating library etc. All in, it took an hour and a half, and then there is a little museum in the main building. We were too late to book online but called up and were told there was plenty of space to just turn up. Free parking and toilets.

What an amazing place to visit. First of all the staff were so welcoming. They were not stuffy but really nice people to be around. Stuart, our guide, a qualified geologist, was amazing. He brought the place to life. Without him, it was a hole in the ground. With him, it was an adventure into the past.

Nice atraction for all family with panning experience and travel mine and village. Steward is very lovely and fun tour guide from lead museum. I strongly recommend order tickets before visit because is short parking places arounds.

The road to the castle is a disaster! The gift shop and castle are worthy the visit. Staff very friendly and welcoming. We didn't go into the castle but I did take the dog around the moat as suggested by a staff member. I took lots of pictures. Beautiful views, the only thing that was a slight inconvenience is i didn't wear the right footwear! It's was a little wet around the back of the castle and my feet got soaked. Obviously this is my fault and no fault of the castle grounds. I was wearing trainers, I'd recommend boots or Wellingtons. Beautiful place though.

Absolutely loved this place. Soo unique in design. We visit lots of castles up and down the country and this is one of the most memorable. Beautiful surroundings, loads of history and some very knowledgeable, friendly staff. We will revisit, next time we pass through. Highly recommended

Our favorite castle of the 10 we visited on our 2 week roadtrip. Loved the kind staff and how you feel like you have the place to yourself to explore. It really feels like a fairytale with a moat and original site you can walk to nearby. So pictaresque and worth the drive.

Fabulous little castle, really interesting place with loads of history. Only a short journey from Dumfries. We didn't have to book ahead of time and were able to park easily. They also have a great little shop and small cafe. Lots of places to have a picnic and the area is great for dogs, with some nice paths and walks

Great place to visit, some restoration work being carried out, at present.Good car parking area, gift shop and video area to educate you on the history of the site. You do a small walk to the original castle site. Well worth a visit. Some areas of the castle are not accessible by wheel chair, for obvious reasons.

My favorite Castle of my first 9 days in Scotland. This one has a moat, like a true castle should. The draw bridge was destroyed centuries ago, along with part of the roof, and sections of it have been exposed to the elements for some time. There are sections repaired allowing access to the multiple levels where there is a roof protection that section. The prison was in good condition too. Crazy to know the prisoners were just tossed from 2 stories into the pit. Don’t bother checking out the original castle a short walk away, as it is flattened, and the perimeter blocks are all left near foundation level. Check out my photos.

Very interesting Castle/s. Parts were closed off but there was enough to have a wander around (albeit it's not particularly large for a castle. The staff in the shop/visitor centre were helpful and friendly. Worth a visit if you like castles/historic buildings.

Great to look round where Wordsworth was born and lived. Steps up into the building and out into the garden. But they do have a lift which would get you in to see the ground floor and back down so you can get into the walled garden. Explore the walled garden that has plenty of fruit trees and plants/flowers not massive but has a lot packed in. Toilets and children's area indoors and small shop. Staff very welcoming and informative.

Although I'm not a fan of poetry I found this house and garden really worth a visit. The audio tour guide is well worth it because it brings the house and contents alive in a way pure text can't. The story surrounding Wordsworth and his family is both fascinating and tragic. His parents both died quite young and the hardship they experienced is sobering.

When I planned my visit I mistakenly thought this was the famous Wordsworth house in Grasmere; but quickly realized it’s a different one. While it wasnt the historic literary landmark I had in mind, staffs were very friendly and welcoming. They clearly care about the visitor experience and took the time to answer questions and share interesting details about the house. There are no much restrictions. The back garden was nice with apple trees❤️ Although it didn’t quite match my expectations in terms of literary history, the warm atmosphere and attentive service made it an enjoyable stop. If you’re in the area and looking for a peaceful visit with kind hosts, it’s still worth visiting.

What a fantastic place to visit. I’m not really a poetry fan, and yes we did Wordsworth when I was in school, and I knew something about them. However, this is a fantastic way to find out about him, his poetry, and also his works not only in literature but always saving the Lake District and preserving nature, et cetera.

I have wondered past this place a number of times but whilst working in Cockermouth but only now found time to visit and it was so worth while. Loads to see and a beautiful cottage garden at the back. The house gives a real insight into the Wordsworth family life and it's ups and downs. Definitely worth a second visit soon

Well worth a visit, many full displays and helpful literature readily available, plus the gardens which extend to a view of the river. Forming an image of the young Wordsworth family including William and the role his father played in the area.

Lovely building and understand that the house had other residents over the years so the interior is a representation of what it could of been like when Wordsworth was a child

Beautiful place had a walk in the hillside the views from any of the surrounding Fell are absolutely breathtaking. I would definitely recommend Buttermere for Fell walkers and anybody else for that matter just a very beautiful place.

Buttermere was our first stop on a trip to the Lakes, and it certainly set our expectations high for the trip. We did the 2hr circular walk around the lake, and I think it might be one of the best walks and locations we have ever done. It's a perfect mix of mountain views, forest covered areas and the beauty of the lake itself. It's easy to follow the route round, and accessible for a variety of walkers as it is a mostly flat walk (no major hill climbs) . Would reccomend stopping here wether it be for a walk or even just to appreciate the scenic views.

Hidden gem 💎 My favourite place in Lake District. You have to drive through some tight roads ut it's worth. If you have a choice then take small car. It will be easier to drive during traffic. Perfect place for family fun. Pack your lunch, dinner, games, kayak, etc and have lot of fun. Try and maintain the peace. It's amazingly quiet here. Parking is free just in front of entrance but you have to park on a roadside and it's very limited.

This has to be one of the most scenic circular walks in the Lake District! Access for us was via Keswick and the Honister Pass which is single track with passing places, and not particularly for the faint hearted. We parked at the farm just prior to Buttermere itself, where day parking is £4.00. From here there is easy access down to the walk which is well signposted. The walk can be done either way around, but we did it so the first part was on the opposite shore to the road that runs parallel with the lake. For the most part the walk is flat on well trodden and well maintained paths. Given the rain in previous weeks, whilst it was a little muddy in places, nowhere was it really bad. The views around the valley are amazing in clear skies and we had fantastic weather so no complaints. The route to the village centre at Buttermere is around 3 miles, with a good cafe in the centre with a decent menu and service at reasonable prices. There is a pub (or two I think) but I can't speak on these. Rejoining the circular path the route runs very close to the lake, although on this side the path is a bit more up and down, and slightly more strenuous with many tree roots and rocks on the path, so good footwear is advisable. We found that the walk was closed around three quarters of the way round due to a rockfall, but no-one seemed to be taking any notice of the signage and warning tape, so the risk is on you as to whether you keep going (as we did) or turn back!! Eventually the path rejoins the road around 500mtr from the farm car park (where during the summer there is an ice cream van stationed (at weekends at least). Care is required on the road as there is practically no verge to walk on. In all the walk is around 5 miles (it does say it is 4.5m in most of the guides, but I think this is a slight underestimate given my step count!! Anyway, it is well worth doing this walk, and if you don't fancy the return back through the Honister Pass, there is an option to drive past Buttermere and Crummock Water, and take the Whinlatter Pass back to Keswick and tne A66.

Absolutely stunning to walk around this beautiful lake. Incredibly still water, many different species of trees and lots of wildlife. Plenty of places to park nearby. Would definitely recommend a visit.

Beautiful hiking place. However, it is not for beginners. You can enjoy hiking until Bleaberry Tarn, but above that, all the best. It is very steep climbing towards Red Pike and getting down from High Stile as it is not an easy route. Due to safety reasons, we didn't take a photo as we were climbing up and down right on the edge of the hill, and it was windy. We only took photos when we felt safe.

I had a great solo hike around Buttermere, the weather wasn’t great but I added to the experience I guess. It has some spectacular views with place to stop and take a dip if you want to. It’s dog friendly with some stretches requiring you to keel your dog under control due to live stock. There is a cafe on the route with a toilet and also a few hotels to choose from should you want to stay over. It’s a family friendly route and it’s pretty much flat all the way round.

Good hill walk for all the family .

One of the few paragliding sites near Glasgow. Eager to visit again.

Tinto hill (Teinnteach in Scottish gaelic, meaning "fiery") at 2,333ft sits alone and prominently off the A73, just 5 miles from Biggar. There is a good sized car park and it's free. Tinto is easily navigatable from the car park with a well defined path the top through a heather peat path and loose stone of red Felsite rock Tinto Cairn marks the highest point at the top. The cairn has a plaque at the top and points to hills and munro tops around Scotland, which helps you to navigate the area. The view is stunning and when it's clear you can see for miles in every direction from the Southern Highlands, across the borders to the Pentland hills, the Southern uplands, the Campsie Fells, Arran’s Goatfell, and even the Ailsa Craig in the Firth of Clyde on clear days and down through the pastoral lands of the Clyde valley. It can get cold at the top of the exposed summit, so bring warm layers. Before turning off on the A73 to the car park, there is also a cafe called Tinto Hill tearoom. I have not been there but reviews are generally excellent and mostly 5 out 5 stars are given. I would highly recommend a trek up Tinto. The panoramas are stunning and expansive.

There are a good few ways to ascend and descend this lovely wee hill, with a bit of research you can completely avoid the huge crowds of the main route, well, until you reach the summit.

Amazing views from the Top all around the Lanarkshire and Scottish Border best spot for light activities, easy start for beginners, ideal for all ages group, steady path all the way to top ideal for all weather. Will be back again soon ⛰🌿🏔👍. If using sat nav search for Tinto tea room instead Tinto hill👍

Fab walk. Good path up wi fab views. Weather at top was blawin a hoolie , the wind chill was crazy..🥶😂 defo worth a donder up

Easy enough climb if preparing for a bigger thing or wanting to spend time with kids and/or dog. 2 hours up and down, a little challenging for some but achievable and feels good.

Visited Hetland Garden Centre and Dino Park with my extended family of young adults. We all ate at the garden centre's cafe which had a well catered menu with options for vegans and intolerances. There was also a good selection of delectable cakes and desserts. A little on the expensive side but the food and service were all very good. The Dino Park was reasonably priced at £6 for adults and cheaper for children. The staff member was extremely friendly and helpful and the Park itself was well laid out with plenty to see and explore.

Absolutely brilliant family day out. We brought our 3yr old son for the first time and he had a great day. He said "best day ever!" Lots to do and see. Not expensive either.

Absolutely rubbish! We paid over £50 to see a bunch of plastic dinosaurs that don't even move...you can walk around it in less than 10 minutes, and they make you pay extra for soft play! The place is an absolute waste of time and money and looking very tired. The restaurant wasn't much better, lots of flies in the cake cabinet and the meals are more like kids party food! Please don't waste your money here! Go to one of the other local amazing farm parks or activities!

The dinosaur trail only takes 10/15m to walk around, but you stop and explore, 'digging' up bones and exploring the area. We stayed for about 2 hours, did three laps and spend an hour in the soft play. Decent hot food, really engaging staff with the kids, and unlike a lot of soft plays not cramped and really well maintained. Absolute must stop with dinosaur obsessed toddlers. A real gem.

Great place to take kids. Really nice garden centre too. Lovely staff. Surprisingly quiet on a Saturday, the soft play even more so but that was definitely not a bad thing.

Loved it. Went close to opening time and it was so lovely and quiet, perfect for my 3 autistic boys. Lots of different dinosaurs to see and they loved digging for fossils. Nice little playground in the middle for a run around. The soft play was good, not too big so easy to keep an eye on the kids. Staff were all very nice and friendly, talked us through the whole thing before we went in. It was just great.

The garden centre is lovely with some really great products, the soft play was brilliant- really great space and very clean. The disappointment was the Dino Park, for the price it was a real let down. Very tired models and not enough activities to be considered a family attraction. Advice to the owners knock the Dino Park on the head and focus on the rest of the business.

Really nice place to visit just into Scotland. The restaurant was tidy and tables cleared quickly. The coffee was very good . Went into the blacksmith museum and enjoyed looking at the history of the place. The food hall very good with a few items of food I haven't seen before.

Got married in there a week ago! Beautiful place filled with character and history. Lots of cool souvenirs in the shop (husband bought the anvil jumper, I bought lots of things like magnets, mini whiskeys, Christmas decorations etc) the museum was very informative and interesting, there was a cute wall to put your story on! Staff very lovely and if you stay at one of their hotels you get 10% off (excluding alcohol) You'll always see someone getting married there. The Thursday we arrived we witnessed 4 during our visit. Then on or day I saw two others. Be warned if you get married here you may have tourists snapping shots of you! (Was a very surreal feeling but I didn't mind, they were all so sweet giving compliments)

Even though I really enjoyed going to Gretna, I felt it had changed so much. It's a beautiful place to visit but it's got very commercialised. That being said it still holds a big place in my heart.

A charming and historic spot that oozes romance! Famous for runaway weddings since the 1700s, the Blacksmith’s Shop is packed with character and fascinating exhibits. The museum tells the stories of eloping couples beautifully, and the setting feels like stepping back in time. Even if you’re not tying the knot, it’s worth a visit for the history, lovely gift shop, and cosy café. Staff are friendly and happy to share the legends of the place. A must-stop if you’re anywhere near the Scotland–England border. I also recommend bringing a lock to put on the ‘LOVE’ sign! We bought one from the gift shop and wrote our initials on it.

returned to visit after we wed here 21 years ago. all staff we encountered from gift shop to cafe or the museum were helpful and happy. the upgrades to the museum are a nice addition and interactive way to explain the history of the location

We must have hit on a quiet time to visit. Last time we visited the place was very busy. It was more enjoyable being able to amble around the site. I didn't realise couples actually get married here. We saw at least three couples set to get hitched. We visited the cafe which had a very tasty selection of varying foods on offer. My better half praised how tasty the Scotch broth was. We had a look in the souvenir shop and again we were met with an array of varying gifts. The Foodhall likewise, was very well stocked and the Shortbread shop offered many styles of shortbread. We were lucky with the weather as it was sunny. We spent a very pleasant couple of hours on site.

I only came to know this place while returning from Edinburgh. It is one of Scotland’s most famous and romantic destinations, renowned for its rich history of runaway weddings. Located just across the English border, it became legendary in the 18th century when young couples, often under the age of 18; fled here to marry freely. Under Scottish law, they could wed without parental consent, and the English authorities had no power to stop them. The village’s famous Blacksmith’s Shop, where these marriages were performed over the anvil, remains a symbol of love, freedom, and timeless romance- making Gretna Green a must-visit for history and heart alike.

A wonderful day out, lovely paths through well labelled trees and shrubs, quite steep in places and rarely flat. And an excellent cafe for cake and coffee or an extensive choice for lunch. Gluten free options available.

Beautiful Arboretum with an amazing collection of trees. We had a lovely day here, though as someone on a mobility scooter, my ability to get round the gardens was limited. They had a lovely cafe and shop.

What a lovely place to visit, stunning scenery. A good map and nice walk. A bit hilly in parts but has wheelchair accessible paths too. It has a lovely cafe with delicious food(over priced as usual expected) but the food was good.

Lots of lovely trees, lichens etc to enjoy. Cafe was slow to deliver food on our visit; they also ran out of sausages by 1pm and cake not soon after !

Lovely woodland gardens to walk around with lots of interest, even in autumn. There is just the right amount of information boards. Good footpaths on a wet day. The gardens are in a hillside with a stream through the middle. The cafe is airy and has a good selection of food, including all day breakfasts.

Stunning spacious gardens with plenty of walking paths and a really interesting variety of old trees. The cafe in particular is always worth a visit.

Lovely relaxing walking among mature trees, shrubs and wil flowers; the mecanopsis are stunning in May. I am told the cafe was excellent before it changed management, but the current offering did not make me linger.

The Castle is very impressive and the staff were absolutely passionate and knowledgeable. They gave great insights and getting the guide book made it easier to know where you were and find out more about each venue. The added bonus of the war museum showed great history as well. Definitely worth a visit and £15 to get in was not bad.

I had decided to have a bit of a wounder in and around town, the castle, Tullie house then get something to eat before head home. Had an explore around the castle witch was fun or it was rather empty I was expecting more things in the rooms. But saying g that it was still worth the money decided recommend to everyone.

A great place to visit this English Heritage site, full of wonderful border history. There is a military museum there, and a very small cafe that isn't dog friendly but the actual castle and grounds are. The medieval castle is very interesting with a small chapel where King David I died. There is also some excellent medieval graffiti!

Every time we come home, we visit and find something we didn't notice the last time. Staff here are extremely knowledgeable and I recommend doing the tour! Carlisle has some of the most interesting history through all ages in time.

We visited on a Saturday around 12pm and it was not busy, we were able to book tickets online and we were admitted quickly. The site has a lot of history and you can access the military museum as well as a fascinating keep. There are facilities including a cafe and gift shop.

Great. English Heritage. There's a huge carpark alongside the castle, very cheap and ideal for motorhomes - can stay overnight. Lots to see in the castle, including the museum. 'Interesting ' guide !! Didn't quite stick to EH acceptable script I suspect !! Great information boards, toilets, cafe etc. Well worth a visit if in Carlisle.

Very impressive castle, steeped in history. Spent a couple of hours there but could have stayed longer. Well worth a visit

Excellent museum, the dinosaur exibit very well laid out and informative. Plenty of space inside for wheelchairs users. Recommend to buy the annual pass as there is loads to see.

Tullie House has always been my favourite museum in the North West- Rich in local and Border History, Tullie House never fails to impress. Their limited time exhibitions are always presented to a very high standard, and I recently visited the rEvolution Dinosaur exhibit, which was a solid 10/10. The Tullie refurbishment makes the building look fresh and new.

Attractive local museum which has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment. Nice cafe and arts and crafts related talks are sometimes held. Cafe gave a positive impression, did not consume anything there. Only looked at some free displays, some impressive artefacts like a prehistoric gold bangle and a large key to one of the old city gates. Attractive tiled stairway, mosaic floor and bannister with coats of arms

The kids absolutely loved it. It is so changed since I have been there. The exhibitions were great and the Dino exhibit was really interesting.

It’s our second visit to Tullie Gallery this year – and once again, the exhibition left us truly impressed! 🎨😍✨ There’s something about this place that keeps calling us back… always inspiring, always worth it. 💫🖼️ If you’re ever in Carlisle, don’t miss it! 📍👀 #TullieGallery #ArtVibes #CarlisleCulture #GalleryLove 💕🎭

The extra exhibition of dinosaur world is interesting and informational. However, at the lower floor of Roman exhibition was disappointing. For example, my young grandson was spelling out a name,that required a ,"u" after helping to search, no u's , so I spoke to assistant, apparently, no U's. This does not take into consideration, that our children learn phonetically, having a letter missing, is annoying. The rest of our explore was fine.

Recently opened exhibition Dinosaur rEvolution is well worth visiting. Great fun for a family and people of all ages. New discoveries about dinosaurs led to the new way of thinking about how they looked and how they lived. It is bright, it is interactive, it is informational, and it is fun.

A spectacular old cathedral in the northeast corner of England. It is a personal favorite and I would recommend a visit. Begin in 1123 in the Norman style, it was built with local red sandstone. Much of the church was rebuilt in the 13th century in the Gothic style. The ceiling is spectacular. Owen Jones designed and specified the painted star ceiling in Carlisle Cathedral’s choir during its 1856 restoration under architect Ewan Christian. The wooden barrel vault dates to the 14th century, but the medieval scheme was lost, and Jones—a prominent Victorian decorative artist known for his work on the Crystal Palace interiors—created the blue background with gold stars and angels, drawing from historical styles. It was later repainted in 1970 for preservation, maintaining Jones’s original vision. The east window is impressive. It is the largest and most complex such window in England at 51’ by 26’. It depicts events from the life of Christ; some of the panes in the upper portion are original, dating back to 1350. Parking in the area is good. There are several car parks within half a mile.

So nice to be able to wander around with the dog. It’s a beautiful cathedral with some unique points of interest, including the ceiling. Perhaps not the most impressive in the country but it holds its own. The grounds are also very pleasant.

Fabulous. A warm welcome on arrival, no pressure to pay or make a donation (which is high on our reviews of somewhere - happy to make a donation, but to be charged to enter a church !! Totally unacceptable in my view ...). Plenty of volunteers to offer historical information, really friendly. This cathedral 'feels' comfortable, warm and open. Really enjoyed the stories ... well worth a visit (& the donation !).

I visited the cathedral on June 2nd and was warmly welcomed by the kindest staff. Two gentlemen offered me a map, pointed out the must-see spots, and shared a timetable. They also noticed that my friend had stayed outside with his dog and proactively let me know that dogs are allowed inside. That thoughtful gesture really stood out. It was heartwarming to see how genuinely kind and attentive they were. And the cathedral itself? Absolutely stunning. Truly worth a visit!

Very old and interesting. The stain glass windows are in very good shape considering the age. The organ pipes along with the organ itself are really worth the visit. There are lots of buildings on the site which you can look around the library is interesting the entrance to which is through the cafe, the cafe has a large area outside and quite a large area inside the food is good. Would recommend trip here.

Today, accompanied by both my sons and grandmas, we spent a truly memorable two hours at Carlisle Cathedral—an experience that was both calming and profoundly awe-inspiring. The cathedral’s serene atmosphere speaks volumes beyond words, inviting quiet reflection within its historic, hallowed walls. We were fortunate to be greeted by a highly knowledgeable guide who kindly provided us with a detailed map and patiently answered all our questions, enriching our visit immeasurably. Although the organ wasn’t playing this week due to half-term, which was a slight disappointment, it gave us an opportunity to treasure the visual and spiritual grandeur of the space even more deeply. We took the chance to purchase a CD of the cathedral’s magnificent organ music, promising to carry a piece of the experience home with us. Carlisle Cathedral, with its timeless beauty and thoughtful stewardship, is a gem that left us inspired and grateful—a place to revisit time and again with loved ones.

Magnificent, pocket sized, deep-red sandstone cathedral, with a magical painted ceiling that will give you neckache for the time you will want to keep marvelling at it. It’s a small building with a pretty cloister, not really something you’d spend more than half an hour poking around, but if you’re in Carlisle, it’s definitely worth going out of your way to go and see this. Check opening times though, it isn’t always open. And maybe help support the cathedral by having a bite to eat at the cathedral cafe, as in the UK, this really is one of a kind - painted ceilings like this are what you see occasionally in France, but very rare in the UK. I remember being blown away the first time I saw it, I’d never seen anything of the kind before. Quiet, rarely many people, you’ll generally have the place to yourself.

Always a good time at GT. Some trails still closed as a result of storm Arwen, but the primary ones are open and running well, plus a number of off-piste ones as well.

Simply the best mountain bike venue within easy driving distance of Edinburgh. Personal favourites are Spooky Wood (red) and the descent of Falla Brae/ Good Game (blue with red options) but there are trails here for all ages and abilities.

Brilliant and well maintained trails easy maps to understand where to ride. Cafe is great as all food is tasty and reasonably priced. Irritating problem as the cafe stops hot food at 4pm, the time most people finish riding, overall great place though.

Surely one of the best trail centres in the country. If you're in to mountain biking then this should be on your list for sure. While you're there you can try out nearby Innerleithen as well.

Probably the best singletrack mountain biking center I've been to, the red route is exciting, flowing and full of berms and jumps, the climbs are interesting and there are by far and away the best blue routes I've seen. Heartily recommended

Great for families, good range of marked trails for most skill levels and lots of off piste riding if you are willing to explore.

Tired old trails not being maintained. New trails are bike park style if that’s your thing.

It's a fantastic historical chapel steeped in history and made famous (to non Freemasons) by the Dan Brown book, The Davinci Code. There is a large car park a couple of hundred yards down the road from the entrance. When we got there we were informed that they were at capacity (this was a Friday afternoon) but we could get in an hour later. It might be better to book a slot to guarantee getting in at a specific time. We bought our entry tickets and waited. An hour later we got in. The Chapel was very interesting, lots to look at. No photography allowed in the Chapel.

They are really dedicated to this chapel. Your money will not be lost in circulation somewhere.. But the people who work for this jewel are doing a great job. They told us a lot of stories and there was even a brochure about the church in our language. We could understand better everything we see in this magical place.I highly recommend to go here just for the fact that the chapel was part of the film.

Ever since I arrived in the UK, I dreamed of visiting two sacred places for my soul: Stonehenge and Rosslyn Chapel. I felt their calling like points of light on the map of a personal initiation.** A few days ago, I took advantage of a reunion with a dear friend in Edinburgh, and together we set off for Roslin. We visited the famous chapel – a mysterious place, full of symbols – and I took a few photographs... until I noticed a small sign in a shadowy corner: "Photography prohibited." Still, I had the joy of speaking with a volunteer deeply passionate about the history of the place. We exchanged ideas, and I felt a gateway to deeper knowledge quietly opening before us. The energy inside the chapel reminded me of certain Dacian sacred sites, yet here the feeling was denser, heavier – as if many silences had gathered between the stones. The crypt, however, conveyed something entirely different. That’s where I felt the true heart of the place. I believe it was the first structure built, and the most important – not by chance. There are a few objects displayed there that, to those who know how to look, reveal the chapel's role as a space of initiation. What drew me most were the two famous pillars: the **Master's Pillar** and the **Apprentice's Pillar**, both echoing the Legend of Hiram and Solomon's Temple. The carved messages are alive – alive like runes still whispering. I wholeheartedly recommend visiting this place – but not blindly. Go prepared. For if you do not know what you are seeking, you will pass by the mystery as you would a cold, lifeless wall.

Really interesting visit. Easy to find, lots of parking which was free. Lovely surroundings. Extremely helpful staff. The guides in the chapel were very knowledgeable and their presentation during the visit times lot was extremely entertaining. The chapel itself is enchanting and well worth seeing for yourself up close with so many years of mystery built into its fabric.

What a beautiful wee place, full of incredible carvings and murals from long ago. Some secrets and stories here too. One of the best wee sites in the country. Make this a must see. Outstanding.

My second visit to this beautiful and atmospheric medieval chapel, while on a coach holiday in Scotland. Our visit was in a 90 minute timed slot (between 3.30 and 5.00pm), allowing us plenty of time to look around. Adult admission is £11.50, concessions £9.50, and children go free. We entered through a modern visitor centre just a few strides from the free car park. The exterior of the chapel is impressive enough, with its ornate pinnacles, statues and fearsome gargoyles. But the interior is absolutely stunning! The ceiling, arches and columns are all covered with intricate religious and symbolic carvings of saints and demons, plants and animals, angels and green men. Some beautiful stained glass too. Despite the throngs of tourists, this chapel had an air of wonder, mystery and legend. At 4.00pm, a guide gave us all a lively and entertaining 20 minute talk about the chapel's history - and the shocking story of the Apprentice's Pillar! - and we were also given a free map to help us find the most interesting carvings. You need to watch your step because the floor is uneven in places. A long steep staircase (with a rail) leads down into the crypt where some of "The Da Vinci Code" was filmed. No photography is allowed inside the chapel, but outside is fine! It's worth visiting the small museum in the visitor centre to learn more about the history and restoration. There's a lovely gift shop, toilets, and a café where you can get snacks, scones, and hot and cold drinks. An architectural treasure not to be missed!

Rosslyn Chapel – Chapel Loan, Rosslyn, EH25 9PU This is our own experience with this business, and we know different clients will have different experiences — but we always leave reviews based on the service we received when we ordered or visited. First Impressions Rosslyn Chapel is truly breathtaking from the moment you arrive. The building itself is stunning, full of character and history, and the visitor reception area is modern, welcoming, and well thought out. Free parking right outside is a huge bonus, and the electric car charging points are a thoughtful addition. Cleanliness & Safety Concerns The entire site — including the chapel, visitor centre, and tea room — was clean, tidy, and clearly well maintained. Pathways and indoor areas felt safe, and the organisation of the visitor flow made for a smooth and comfortable visit. Food Quality The Coffee shop offers a lovely place to sit and unwind after exploring the chapel. Although we didn’t sample much this time, the selection looked appealing and well presented. We’ll definitely try more on our next visit. Ambience & Surroundings The combination of the chapel’s historic atmosphere and the peaceful surroundings creates a magical experience. Inside the chapel, the intricate carvings and architecture are absolutely mesmerising. The grounds are tranquil and perfect for taking your time to appreciate the site’s beauty. Service & Atmosphere The staff were exceptional. Everyone we encountered was friendly, helpful, and genuinely passionate about Rosslyn Chapel. A special thank you to the lady in the main chapel who took the time to explain so much of the building’s history — her knowledge and enthusiasm added so much depth to the visit, and we truly appreciated her insights. Facilities The visitor reception area includes a well-stocked gift shop and a cosy coffee room. The free parking and electric vehicle charging points are fantastic amenities. Everything is easy to navigate, and the facilities are modern and convenient. We’re already looking forward to returning with our children, who will absolutely love exploring the history and stories behind the chapel. Thank you to all the staff — we hope you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year. I hope this honest review helps others make an informed decision.

Beautiful views of city covering old town, new town, and the sea. Stairs and somewhat less than casual slopes to walk but well worth it for night time views. Nice down hill walk to Edinburgh food market for something to eat after sunset views.

Easy to climb, quite central spot if you are interested in a panoramic view, city side, landscapes and sea. Just dont expect Acropolis feeling!

Calton Hill is absolutely beautiful! The views over Edinburgh are breathtaking! you can see the castle, Arthur’s Seat, and the whole city skyline. The walk up is short and easy, and the view at the top is completely worth it, especially at sunset. It’s one of the best spots in Edinburgh for photos, peaceful moments, and enjoying the city from above. A must visit! 🌄🏰✨

Calton Hill is Edinburgh's most spectacular viewpoint! The short climb rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree panoramas of the city, from the Castle to Arthur's Seat and the Firth of Forth. The striking monuments—like the 'Scottish Parthenon'—add an epic, timeless grandeur to an unforgettable visit.

Breath taking panoramic view of the city. Peaceful place where you can spend hours. Lost from the busy world in the heaven is the feeling ✨️. The national monument n other places of interest on the Calton hill top are touristy places ✨️ which you can't afford to miss out. You could be lucky if you are able to be there at the Sunrise or the Sunset time. I can guarantee that you would definitely not want to leave the place even it is freezing cold. Must visit place in Edinburgh.

A must visit for those who want to capture the whole view of Edinburgh. You can see the old town, new town and Arthur's Seat from there. No hiking needed and easy to access from the town. Go early before 7am to catch the sunrise and to avoid crowds as its really crowded during peaks hours especially noon and evening.

Great spot with amazing scenic views of the city! There is an “easy” way up which is a hill walk around or one set of stairs to the top which is a little bit challenging! Price in to the tower is £7.50 per person which is a little steep for how long you would spend up there as it was very windy & quite small. I would recommend they limit the amount of people allowed up at one time as it got crowded and we wanted to go down earlier due to this, but it does also gives you access to the history museum too which is well worth the read. Stairs are about 1.5minutes walk up and down depending on your ability but definitely not suitable for anyone who suffers from claustrophobia or any other health issues! Calton hill was beautiful from all sides definitely don’t miss it!

I loved being able to walk around at my own pace listening to the audio guide. Loved learning about the history and the kings/queens who lived there. No photos allowed inside. Beautiful gardens also and a café.

Palace of Holyroodhouse is a beautiful and majestic place located at the end of the Royal Mile. It’s one of Edinburgh’s most important historic landmarks, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s royal history. The palace features stunning architecture, elegant rooms, and lovely gardens that add to its charm. However, photography is not allowed in most of the rooms to protect the historic artifacts and furnishings. Despite that, the visit is truly worth it — the atmosphere, details, and royal elegance make it an unforgettable experience.

Have taken so many friends and relatives on tours of Holyroodhouse, and never come away without learning or seeing something new. This is more than a palace or museum, this is a fascinating part of a nation's history, only diminished in its value because rogue political 'leaders' think they know better than the rest of the population! Well worth a visit, again and again.

This was definitely worth a visit. Yes, it does cost to go in but the handset made it worthwhile as they had an interactive app that helped the kids to learn, search and play. Out of all the historic sites we went to, they learnt the most at this site. The palace was beautiful and well maintained. There was one area (tight staircase heading to Mary's room) that would be an issue to get to for those who struggle to walk upstairs. There was no signage to provide another route. Other than that, we had a fabulous time and my 3 kids aged from 7 to 14 all enjoyed it. All in all, a breathtaking

Really cool place to visit! You get to walk through real royal rooms and learn lots of interesting stories (the audio guide is super helpful). The palace feels grand but still very peaceful, and the gardens are beautiful too. A perfect stop if you want a mix of history and chill vibes in Edinburgh.

Lovely place to visit. Lovely to see the rooms and lovely collection of art and wonderful tapestries , Take the audio tour as very interesting can't take photos in the palce but that doesn't distract from the experience. You can always get a brochure.

Interesting castle and history. Recommend taking the after hours guided tour. No one else around. The guide was very knowledgeable and interesting. The tour also includes the gardens and the abbey. And they give you a souvenir book!

Really beautiful view from this spot! I recommend going at sunset, it’s very romantic and peaceful. The hike is manageable for beginners, just make sure to wear appropriate shoes (no heels!). It’s a bit rocky at the top, so be careful, and enjoy the view!

Absolutely worth the hike! We took our whole family, including small children, and everyone made it to the top. It took us a little extra time with the little ones, but the views are incredible and totally worth the effort. Definitely check the weather before you go — the path can get slippery both on the way up and down. Ice cream trucks waiting at the bottom were the perfect treat after the climb! A great family adventure and a must-do when visiting Edinburgh!

It's a trek bit the views are amazing and well worth it. However, at the top it gets very busy and both times I've been up there we've had to queue to get to the marker at the top. Best bit for me was taking the route down off the far side and walking around the surrounding park - very few people and stunning countryside.

We enjoyed checking out Arthur’s seat. It can be a little treacherous, because of the steepness of the climb and the lack of a distinct path. Be ready for some exercise and go when there is plenty of daylight. You do not want to climb on the rocks up the hillside in the dark/at dusk.

The entire hike up and down took around 2 hours including spending time taking photos and a few breaks in between. It's an advanced beginner hike and shoes with a good grip are recommended. I did this in my regular trainers so it's not entirely impossible, just that it gets quite rocky especially at the last stretch to the top. It can also get quite windy too. The view was so worth it, a must for the bucket list!

Great little hike to the top. Accessible for most able-bodied people but not wheelchairs or buggies etc. Swarms of insects at the top and can get quite crowded. Some loose scree etc.to scramble up for a quicker route but a reasonable, less steep footpath also gets you to the top for wonderful views over city, fields and the bay.

This is an amazing place for views, but be prepared to work for it. There are two ways up, so do your research based on your skill level. The last bit is all rocks, so be careful of when you go and know your limits and skills. The views make this all worth it, so this is a must see while in Edinburgh.

🚢 My Visit to The Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia was an unforgettable experience that offered a personal glimpse into the life of the British Royal Family at sea. Moored at Ocean Terminal in Leith, Edinburgh, this magnificent ship served the royal family for over 40 years (1954–1997), sailing over a million nautical miles on royal tours and state visits. Walking through the beautifully preserved State Apartments, Royal Bedrooms, Crew Quarters, and Engine Room, I was amazed by the ship’s elegant design and attention to detail. The audio tour provided fascinating stories about royal voyages and daily life aboard the yacht. Visitor Tips: Book tickets online to avoid queues. Allow around 1.5–2 hours to explore comfortably. Don’t miss the Royal Deck Tea Room for a relaxing break with views over the harbor. How to Reach: Easily accessible by bus or tram from Edinburgh city centre to Ocean Terminal Mall. Parking is also available at the terminal. Overall, the Royal Yacht Britannia is a must-visit — a floating palace that perfectly combines royal history, naval heritage, and timeless elegance.

A fascinating and fun visit! We had such a great time exploring The Royal Yacht Britannia! It’s beautifully preserved and full of interesting stories about the royal family and life at sea. The self-guided tour is super easy to follow and gives you a real sense of what it was like on board from the elegant state rooms to the crew’s quarters below deck. Everything is so well presented, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. The onboard café is also lovely, with great views over the water. Whether you’re into history, ships, or just something unique to do in Edinburgh, this place is definitely worth a visit. We left really impressed and with huge smiles!

We took a day trip out the Royal Yacht Britannia and it was well worth it, It's like going back in time when you see all the furnishings and layouts of the rooms. there is a lot to see but you can just take your time and take it all in. The self guided tour is very good but we just had one between us as there is plenty of signs explaining what things are. We used the onboard restaurant, had to queue for a little while but it is worth it as the food and service was first class. This is one of those trips you have to do if you are in Edinburgh it is well worth it. Steve and Jenny.

This was the highlight of my trip to Edinburgh! The self-guided tour is very interesting & well organized. It felt like a trip into the past. The ship is maintained in great shape & with lots of originals still displayed! Highly Recommend!

Very easy to get to. Free parking at the Ocean Terminal Car Park with very clear signage when you arrive as to how to access the Royal Yacht Britannia Experience. Tickets are worthwhile purchasing online in advance but it is easy enough to also buy on arrival. The exhibitions were very well put together and really display the magnificent Britannia at its best. An extremely interesting and enjoyable visit. Well worthwhile adding to your list of things to see when visiting Scotland!

I visited on Oct 7. As a fan of the Royal Family from across the pond, the Royal Yacht was a must-see on my trip list. The staff were very kind and friendly, and the self-guided tour with a free audioguide was great and easy to follow. The Royal Yacht is incredibly well preserved, and it was like walking through a time capsule; from the Queen’s room, through the Crew’s quarters and the engine room, the history held within these walls is magnificent. My only disappointment was that, due to a false alarm, we couldn't have tea in the Royal Deck Tearoom because it had closed early. But I suppose that's a good excuse to return someday!

Well organized. The self guided audio tour runs smoothly and each part is not too long. We were happy we did it! Nice trip from the city center to spend some time on the water of Leith. Taking the city bus was very easy. The view, food and drinks were amazing at the tea room. Worth the money.

Beautiful hills. Easy for a small walk. It takes around half an hour to get the top depends on your speed. Nice place for a family walk and talk. On the top side you can see the big picture of Edinburgh city.

Ban the cars and add deer. No other natural feature quite defines a UK city like the crags in Holyrood. As a result it has a magnetic effect on all who see it. You can stay low and flat, or trot up to the trig point. The very northern end of the crag affords a most intriguing panorama of the Royal Mile from Holyrood Palace all the way up to Edinburgh Castle.

Holyrood Park in Edinburgh is a stunning natural escape right in the heart of the city. Spanning hills, lochs, and rugged cliffs, it offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. The park is home to Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Edinburgh. Whether you're walking around St. Margaret’s Loch, exploring the Salisbury Crags, or just enjoying a peaceful picnic, the park feels refreshingly wild and open. It’s great for hikers, photographers, or anyone needing a break from the city buzz. A must-visit for nature lovers and those wanting to explore Edinburgh’s outdoors.

Such a beautiful visit especially around Christmas time. Audio guide is included with tickets and super informative. An amazing experience as the palace is relevant from Jacobite times to modern times as a working castle and is simply exquisite.

After parking near the pond, we took the side route uphill, which proved to be a steep but quick path to the St. Anthony Chapel. From there, we continued our ascent towards Arthur's Seat, but the climb was challenging due to the slippery pebbles and rocky terrain. It required careful footing to navigate the path safely. Despite the exertion, the breathtaking views from the top made every step worthwhile – the panoramic scenery was truly stunning. For those who do not want to climb all the way up, the pond has lost of seagulls, ducks and pigeon for entertainment!

Unparalleled majesty. I walk here as often as I can, and up to Arthur's Seat. During busy periods, I don't always get out of the city as much as I want to, or need to, to go to my favorite spots around Scotland or the national parks. So I don't know what I'd do without my Holyrood hikes to clear my head and my lungs. It's so rejuvenating, and romantic. I love it here and sometimes take my friend's dog too when I'm looking after her. I've been here now in every weather, in all of the seasons. Never fails to make me feel better. It's photogenic, but the views have to be seen in person to be appreciated fully. The breeze can be biting but as the Norwegians say, there is no bad weather, only bad clothes!

This is a really lovely place to walk around, there’s lots to see and lots to do with some birds around also including herons, pigeons, ducks, and the occasional Raven or other Corvid. You could easily spend a few hours walking around this area.

This is a beautiful house of modest size set in a sublime aspect. It is best viewed after entering from the car park from the first floor balcony of the visitor centre. Happily you can also enjoy a pleasant meal while taking in the view. Taking the path down to the house you pass adjacent to the walled garden. First enter the chapel on the left hand side. A beautifully peaceful place to dwell. Then retrace your steps back outside and enter the house after passing through a stone archway. Friendly volunteers welcome you and offer an audio tour should you wish. Only the ground floor is open to visitors but there is a tremendous amount to take in including the interesting range of artifacts which Scott collected. Once finished in the house then the gardens, which are remarkable well maintained, are worth a gentle stroll. Whrn we visited it was a very hot day so we took advantage of sitting on one of the traditional deckchairs near visitor centre. There is a very reasonable parking charge of £2 per day (August 2025). This is a very worthwhile place to visit.

Fascinating place, very well preserved and so much to look at. Visited here on a Saturday, but early so not too busy. Short walk to the house from the visitor centre and entrance - £15.40 for the day pass for the house and gardens, unfortunately the chapel was closed. Friendly guides at the entrance explained a bit about the house and gave us the audio guides. These were essential really as there was so much in each room to see. There are not actually that many rooms, but the audio guides are really good at explaining the history and function of each, especially if you choose the storytelling guide (as opposed to just the information read out). Great views over the river, and even in November the gardens are good to look around. We also had a walk along the river, there are plenty that start from here.

Lovely visit, guides in the house very welcoming and knowledgeable. Used the recorded information - there were 2 to choose from, one factual and one in the style of Walter Scott himself which I used, it was brilliant. Lovely walk by the river and back through the gardens. Staff in the visitor centre with very welcoming and keen to share where the dogs could go (everywhere except the house). Free entry with Historic Houses membership.

One of the highlights of our trip to Scotland! Abbotsford is so interesting! This home has history, literature, culture and most of all insights into a fascinating life. One of the two audio tours available uses actors and excerpts from Sir Walter Scott’s diary to tell his story. It is beautifully done. The gardens, restaurant and gift shop are also wonderful! Both my husband and I loved it!

We visited late to September 2025 to this particular heritage site and found it fascinating. Not only were we enchanted with the interior of the house but also the the gardens and of course the history. Well recommended and we found it easy to park. A++

Bought an unlimited ticket to experience the whole of Abbotsford as had never visited before & neither had mother in law who's lived in the Borders for over 80yrs! We ranged in ages from teens to 80+ & we all thoroughly enjoyed our visit. The house tour was very interesting & well thought out with 'Sir Walter' taking us round his home. The gardens were lovely & there was plenty of seating dotted around if you got a little weary. The cafe was good accommodating various dietary requirements. There was also a 'snack' area out to the front of the main building with picnic benches. Us younger ones visited Witch's Corner & enjoyed the quiz collecting the trophy bookmarks afterwards! All staff, from the knowledgeable & passionate volunteers to the workers in the main building & cafe were friendly & polite. The facilities were nice & clean too. Plenty of on site parking available at a reasonable price. Would quite happily return & highly recommend a visit if you're in the area.

Walter Scott passed away more than two centuries ago, yet this house still breathes as a living home rather than a mere museum. All the attributes of a museum are present, and still the spirit of Scott’s character and his extraordinary genius lingers in every room. The estate is delightful in every way – from the gardens to the hunting trophies and firearms, and, of course, the warmth of the staff.

The old Abbey in Melrose, Scotland is a fantastic place to visit for not only history but architectural photography. When we visited late September 2025, you couldn't actually walk into the Abbey itself because of the danger of falling masonry. If you don't mind taking photographs and trying to keep the fencing out of view, then it's great for photography. I love zooming into the ancient gargoyles and trying to get glimpses inside the Abbey. Well worth the visit and we found it quite easy to park.

Visited Melrose and its abbey while on holiday in Scotland. The abbey is conveniently just across the road from a pay and display car park (there are also electric charge points). Entrance is through a small gift shop. Paid a reduced admission fee of £3.85, which included a small donation, because you can't actually go inside the abbey due to renovations and danger from falling masonry. But it was well worth taking the free guided tour around the abbey grounds. John was a great guide, very informative, giving us a full account of the abbey's history and adding a couple of humorous anecdotes as he showed us first around the graveyard and then the foundations of the monks' living quarters, kitchen and cloisters. The abbey church, with its soaring Gothic arches and windows, and a wealth of medieval stone carving, was majestic and awe-inspiring in spite of all the scaffolding and safety barriers. Not to be missed were the grave of one of the original masons who worked on the abbey, the burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart, and the famous bagpipe playing pig! There are info boards around the site with artist's impressions that gave me a real sense of how grand this abbey once looked. The shop has themed gifts and some interesting books, and you can also buy ice-cream here. The young man at the ticket desk was so friendly and helpful, even recommending a nearby café where I could get lunch. Despite the renovations and limited access, Melrose Abbey is well worth a visit.

Great for a quick stop or a lingering one. The Abbey grounds include the structure, garden and picnic areas, and a museum. We enjoyed a leisurely tour.

We visited Melrose Abbey in July 2025. It would have been such a beautiful place to visit, were it not for the fact that this abbey is also undergoing major renovations. I don't know what's going on, but it seems that every abbey in the area is currently undergoing renovation work. Perhaps a lot of subsidy money has become available? They are all covered in scaffolding, which makes visiting them less pleasant because of all the scaffolding on the outside and inside.

An excellent example of medieval architecture with English and french influences. Well organised grounds with good information boards and a similar excellent audio guide system to Jedburgh abbey which coupled with the guide map with location points on it allows you to view all the key points with plenty of information. Additional sections on the guide give details of associated events such as the legend of William Wallaces heart. Helpfully staff please ty of benches to sit and take in the views and a three d printed copy of the bagpipe playing pig for you to study. Acces for less abled is pretty good with ramps and mats to help in wet weather though the ground in the cemetery could be challenging.Dont miss the small but excellent museum found by exciting the grounds over the small bridge and through the black gate crossing the road and enteting into the house well worth a visit. Entrance using English heritage membership is free. Only reason for not giving five stars is that conservation work means you can not go into the building.

If you are lucky enough to get a guided this will be an even better experience. After you have done the Abbey and marvelled at the time, energy and skill that must have gone into building it, go to the Museum. Well worth a visit. Parking is possible in the street outside the Abbey Grounds. Priorwood Gardens not really worth visiting. Nor is Harmony Garden. I cannot stress enough how much you will benefit in your appreciation of the ruins if you can get a free guided tour with an enthusiastic, knowledgeable guide

Interesting well preserved site, slightly compromised by current renovations. The Museum well worth a visit as well!

Brilliant day out. We thought 2 hours would be enough but we ended up spending 4.5 hours there. Loads of interesting things to see and do. Our whole family from aged 12 to 75 was entertained. The fantastic flight area where you go in a simulator, make paper aeroplanes and eject them was loads of fun. Staff were really passionate and helpful. Definitely recommend. Great family day out.

One of the remaining Concordes is located here. You can even take a walk inside of it! Though it’s a bit of a short ceiling so taller people could find it a little difficult to walk through. Highly recommend this museum. It also features a Vulcan, a Hawk(the Red Arrows version) and and even engines of the Concorde! A lot of information inside this museum, but for people looking for more I would recommend going to the RAF museum in London.

Fantastic day out! Lots to see and do across the various buildings at the site that to see everything, you will need the best part of the whole day. Obvious main attraction is Concorde which is well presented and has loads and loads of interesting information to digest if you like to read all the info boards (me!) I was particularly impressed with the video presentations and the hands on interactive elements which are well designed and appealing to both kids and adults alike. I wanted to visit for quite a while but never got around to it until now. So glad we spontaneously decided to jump across and visit when we did as it really is a great day out with so much to see and do. Highly recommended for a visit.

This place really surprised me. So, so much more than a museum. Spread over a full airfield in many different aircraft hangars, there are more aircraft here than you can imagine. Get up close, see inside and imagine. Main attraction, Concorde is here. Stand below, touch the wheels, walk through the cabin, look inside the cockpit (scary that this could do over 1400 mph). All the history and details of all the aircraft are all here. We also loved the additional very informative talk on the restoration projects team. (Well worth adding) That hanger had everything...a random landrover, a girocopter, huge propeller aircraft engines to the engines off a nuclear bomb 😵...Very informative talk live on site explaining everything. I cannot recomend enough...100% recomend a visit. Don't go too late in the day though, you wont manage round it all before close. We were there at least 4-5 hrs and it went by in a flash. Loved it.

Fantastic place to visit. The website really doesn't do it justice! Walk on board a Concorde and other big planes. The military hanger has a spitfire, harrier, tornado, jaguar and others. Lots of interactive displays throughout. Nice little cafe. Definitely worth a trip.

Amazing experience with a large variety of planes from every era and purpose. The concorde is an absolute rarity and precious piece of the aviation's history. Very worthy!! Shout out to the staff for their dedication and passion.

One of the best Aviation Museums to visit in the UK. I cam here using local buses in the Summer of 2019- I don't recommend doing that, use a car to get here! Amazing collection of civilian and military aircraft including Concorde, Avro Vulcan, Boeing 707 nose-section, BAC 1-11, DeHavilland Comet 4 and various others! I do recommend buying a ticket in advance.

Just had a fab trip on a R.I.B..[Rigid Inflatable Boat!] On the "Three Islands Seabird Seafari!" Would highly recommend it. The guide on the boat was very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly and willing to answer your questions. The boat was alot more comfortable than I thought. Took plenty of photos. Got lucky with the weather. Which is at the hands of mother nature. Would definitely recommend it as youre also supporting a good cause...in terms of the conservation of birds.

They have boat tours for different places like Isle of May (options of landing trips as well), Bass Rock trips (options for landings as well). Well managed and very friendly with great enthusiasm to show the nature and birds on island. I took Bass rock trip, it was super awesome. Charges for boat trip is very competitive. Staff is very courteous and knowledgeable.

We did one of the boat tours - 1 hour around two islands- and it was fun. My 3 kids liked it. Watch for bird poop! Crazy amount of birds in early July

Went there to experience the RIB boat 3 safari island tour. What an experience! Very interesting and a thrilling ride when the RIB went fast.

On Thursday, 24th July 2025, we booked a birdwatching experience with the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick. As we were visiting my son Kiro at St Andrews University, we took public transport to the centre and boarded one of their boats. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable. We saw the islands of Craigleith and Bass Rock, where we were amazed to see thousands of birds nesting together in large colonies. The sight was truly impressive, and learning about the lighthouse's history added an extra layer of fascination. What struck most was how close we were able to get to the birds, it felt almost magical. To our delight, we even spotted a puffin, which was such a highlight. A truly mesmerising experience. If you are visiting this part of Scotland, we highly recommend booking one of these trips, it is unforgettable.

DId not get time to go on a tour, but explored the point and the gift shop! Nice selection of keepsakes for adults and children alike.

Went on Isle of May trip 11/4/25 and it was a wonderful experience We booked months ago and got lucky with the weather as it can sometimes be cancelled A small rib of 12 people and our guide Kevin. The island was beautiful, interesting and filled with of history but the main draw is the amount of seabirds We were surrounded by Puffins all the time Kevin our guide was excellent He was friendly and organised and worked hard to make sure everyone had the best time He also offered a guided tour of the island and was extremely knowledgeable about its history and the nature Wear sensible footwear and wrap up for the boat as seats are either outside or partially covered HIGHLY recommended

A fabulous day out with grand kids, We visited the wall garden, which is absolutely stunning, wonderful variety of flowers and veg, the millennium gardens are truly amazing, filled with so many apple trees, the kids loved the park and we had a picnic whilst there, we visited the shop and bought gorgeous marmalade and chutney, the cafe was reasonable and the coffee food. We didn't pay to go in the castle opting for the river walk which to be honest wasn't that well sign posted, could have done with a few more posts to follow, but we happily walked across the field ! The castle is spectacular to look at. A great day out worth a visit

This is one spectacular castle, we didn't manage to get inside but the gardens are absolutely glorious, without doubt one of the best we've ever visited. Lots of inspiration to take home. Beautiful grounds with woodland walks and plenty of space to tire out the little ones.

A lovely place to visit. And walk around the gardens throw the woods. And visit the castle as well. Don't forget to go in the cafe as well for food or drinks. Disabled access and parking. There is also a children's play area as well. A really nice day out. You can also walk down by the river tweed as well

Great grounds to explore. We visited twice in a week but wasn't enough time in explore in a day so purchased an annual pass so we can visit more often. House tour very interesting. Gardens were fab with staff working away in the gardens when visited who were very friendly and enthusiastic when we asked them about the work they were doing. Gift shop very good with excellent customer care but didn't get the chance to sample the cafe on these visits Will be back.

Large and impressive stately home. If I am to be completely honest the £22 entrance charge is a little bit on the high side and you don't actually see that much compared to many other country houses I have visited. That said the gardens are included in the ticket price. Parking is included. Cafe/tearoom and restaurant are both very good. Good toilet facilities. Friendly & staff.

The exterior of the castle is impressive. Everything is very well maintained – the façade, the interior chambers, and of course, the garden. Unfortunately, it was a rainy day, and we couldn’t walk around for long. The luxurious rooms on the first floor are not particularly unique. There are a few interesting artifacts.

A fabulous evening! We went to Floors Castle to see Faithless, as part of the venue's live events. Parking was easy, it probably took less than ten minutes to walk from the car to the stage. Faithless, as expected, were awesome! We're definitely going back to both Floors Castle and Kelso in the near future.

Easy to miss the tiny road to the parking area. Parking is free. The castle is beautiful. My favourite area of the castle was the prison where you can see the original medieval toilet. 🤷 There's no coffee shop in the area of the reception, so if you plan to eat there be prepared with sandwiches.

Perched on the cliffs east of North Berwick, Tantallon Castle is one of Scotland’s most spectacular coastal fortresses. Its towering red sandstone walls stand defiantly against the North Sea, offering sweeping views across the water to Bass Rock — often shrouded in mist and dotted with seabirds. Exploring the ruins feels like stepping straight into history. You can climb narrow stairways to the ramparts, peer through arrow slits, and imagine the castle as it once was — a mighty stronghold of the Douglas family in the 14th century. Even in ruin, it commands awe. The combination of wild sea air, crashing waves below, and the vast sky overhead makes Tantallon Castle unforgettable.

Wonderful walk through the history of the castle and area. Amazing views and loads of information, and great insight into the different stages of build through the life of the castle. Well worth a visit.

Dramatic castle ruins on the edge of the North Sea. Built by William Douglas @1350 besieged by James IV, James V and then finally Oliver Cromwell. The curtain wall is incredible and climbing to the top looking out on the Bass Rock makes this one of Scotlands Top 20 castles to visit. Part of Historic Scotlands spectacular attractions. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Really nice ruined castle. Very good for maybe 90 mins to two hours to potter around and enjoy the views. Lots of tight stairs to get up on the battlements though, so maybe avoid if you have mobility problems. No cafe, but there are toilets. Stop by Drift nearby if you need a caffeine and cake fix. Some parking close to the entrance, but if it's busy there's another bigger car park nearer the main road.

Absolutely love Tantallon Castle! Been here a few times and never get tired of it. The history, the views, and that stunning sight o Bass Rock — pure magic. A must-see spot on the Scottish coast!

There is a comfortable parking spot not far away from the entrance. The ruins are well maintained and a vast historical site can still be viewed and trespassed. Fair price, good place to bring the kids.

The Abbey is currently closed but still worth a look from the outside, the town itself is really nice for a few hours, plenty of independent shops.

Beautiful just had to look from the outside as it is closed but very nice

Took a star away cos it is currently closed. But wow!!!! Definitely worth a look even if you can't actually walk in the grounds

I would say such a lovely day but it was raining quite heavily, but it seem to stop as we got closer and at Kelso, so when we got out to explore the places & the abbey it was dry. Everyone was so very friendly, that's the one thing I really like about anyway in Scotland. Lovely place to visit.

Lovely ruined abbey, walking distance from the town centre and its amenities. As other reviewers have stated the abbey has been fenced off for a long time with few signs of any refurbishment or repair work. However it is still an impressive monument and worth visiting. There are information boards about its history which are worth a read. The abbey is also the starting point for the river walk which was lovely.

What an impressive Abbey this one is. Only let down by the fencing around while work is being carried out. Kelso Abbey is perfect for a quick 10 minute pass through on a long drive.

Beautiful pictures I would love to visit from America maybe see if i have family members here still or if all of the Kelso clan members came to America or why my branch of the kelso family came over here

Beautiful place to go for a walk with the highest point being Cheviot at 815m height. The path is well defined and easy accessible from the road which is pretty narrow and bendy as a regular countryside road. I arrived on Thursday, beginning of September and haven't net a single person up there. I must say, in 3 hours I experienced 3 different seasons but all of this just made me enjoy the hiking even more. The views are stunning

The Cheviot Hills are a wild and rolling landscape straddling the border between England and Scotland, offering some of the most rewarding walking country in Northumberland. Their character is defined by broad, sweeping ridges and open moorland, where the views stretch endlessly in all directions – from the patchwork farmland of the valleys to the rugged uplands of the Scottish Borders. The highest point, The Cheviot itself, rises to 815 metres and, though often boggy underfoot, gives a tremendous sense of remoteness and height.

My pack and I love walking in the Cheviots, along the Pennine Way and along the Anglo-Scottish border. There are plenty of routes to choose from and many well signposted. A lot of the area has livestock on so my collie brother has to be on a lead but there is so much to sniff and the views are great. Sometimes areas can be a bit hardgoing under-paw but nothing that will stop you from bounding up the tracks.

We had a short 2.3miles walk of moderate intensity from Hethpool car park towards St Cuthbert’s way. This walk is also called wild goat walk 😜 because if you are lucky you might get to see some wild cheviot goats. We didn’t see any though we views of the waterfall on the College burn. Day was cloudy and cold would have enjoyed more if the weather was good.

A beautiful area for a hike. A tough climb but well worth the effort for the breathtaking scenery. The walk we did was from Barrow burn to Windy Gyle and back in a circular route.

Beautiful scenery and very quiet and peaceful. You can also park up and go on one of many walks. Lots of wildlife to be seen. Such as grouse,pheasants,lapwings and sometimes wild geese. I'd reccomend a visit

An amazing place steeped deep in history, the keepers and farmers look after this place amazingly. There are walks for any kind of walker, from straight up Cheviot to hedgehope hill. So pretty, but please don't tell any one else, we want it to ourselves!

Only visited as a day visitor. Caravan park is set in a beautiful relaxing location near the beach which is popular with surfers. Nice picnic area and children's park. Good social club on site offering live music and tribute band nights.

Lovely staff in shop, bar, reception and grounds folk. Very clean, tidy.Good recycling. Beach just awesome. Very windy and some rain but stunning. Dunbar and Evesham short drive for supermarket. On site store emergencies only. Very expensive. Food good in restaraunt. Little arcade. 2p machines and lots of claw machines. Little else for kids apart from mummy area and beach. No entertainment whilst there but do have a running programme. We were out of luck really. Will go back. Such a great place and easy commute for other things of interest.

We stayed in static holiday home. No services- due to self catering. but facilities on sight. Lovely bay to sit out under the stars. On site restaurant lovely. Wifi-great bonus. Dog friendly

We popped down for the day to have a dip in the sea and had an amazing time here. The staff we're very friendly and helpful . The place is kept very clean & tidy a lovely play area for children which looks out into the sea . The beach is stunning & there's ample parking we had a meal whilst there which was delicious . Looking forward to ending our summer dipping season here again on Saturday.

Immaculately kept caravan park with a nearly new van and descent bar/restaurant, on a beautiful isolated beach. Meal for 4 adults & 2 kids (with drinks) was excellent for £120 and the bairns magic show was brilliant.

Love pease bay 2nd visit - Lovely friendly staff, beautiful clean accommodation so relaxing Gorgeous views/doggy friendly beach Highly recommend and will definitely return worth the 3.5 hr car journey

Great stay at this peaceful holiday park special mention to Sharon at reception for her help and great customer service.

Free parking and entrance. Dog friendly. Ample space for a quiet picnic amongst the ruins of the castle. Very atmospheric, you can feel the history and the beauty of the area. Worth a visit

Etal Castle is a pleasant stop if you are passing by. Plenty of free parking when we visited. Both the gatehouse and tower buildings are shells of their former glory, but drawings fill in the missing details. The wall is still substantial. The site has a large enclosed lawn with a picnic table or two near the historic buildings. Visited in late May 2025

It's a small English Heritage site, but ruins like this have their own charm. We used the car park on site, but the previous time we caught the Heatherslaw Railway for a short but pleasant ride that takes you right by the castle ruins. There are some information boards and a few benches/picnic tables and a large grassy area for children to play in. It's a very short distance to the Black Bull pub and the Lavender Tearooms and I would suggest crossing the road to have a look at the small chapel.

Charming castle ruins nestled on grounds that are on the edge of a quaint village. There is no charge to visit and the parking is free as well. A miniature rail runs from behind the castle to Heatherslaw and is quite fun for something different to do. Certainly worth a stop if you are in the area.

It's not really Castle, but some parts left over the centuries. There are amazing structures that showing brief of how great construction it was. Beautiful place for a relaxing walk or picnic with family or friends. Acsses is free so no tickets needed.

Great place to visit. The castle is a ruin but there's a lovely shop selling cider and wine. There's also a wonderful café nearby selling food, drinks and lovely chocolates. Enjoy a trip on the train too!

Nice historic place to visit. Basic info boards. Easy to access and free parking. Picnic benches. Cider/winery on site. Access to the Heatherslaw steam railway. Shops and restaurants in nearby Etal village.

Was told of this place by a colleague. We absolutely loved this place. Ford and Etal are very picturesque. Lovely for walking, independant shops like jewellery, plants and other little shops. Totally Recommended. We will definitely be coming back.

This was a fun adventure while visiting Etal. We were able to watch the small engine turn around for the return journey to Heatherslaw. We stayed on the train, but the other passengers got out in Heatherslaw to shop around before making the return trip to Etal. The scenery is lovely and there is a glass panel in the open cars should it rain. (although that does make it difficult for taking photos.) There are also closed cars if the weather warrants it. We took the closed car to Heatherslaw, but came back in the canopy covered open car with side panel. It was pouring when we left Heatherslaw but had stopped completely by the time we reached Etal. Perfect timing!

It's a tourist mostly steam miniature railway, not busy even in July. It's not a long run, around a mile by road, and it takes the train around 20 minutes each way. It's not historic, it was built purely for tourist reasons. There's a cafe at each end, a mill at the Heatherslaw end, a castle and cidery at the Etal end. Don't expect this to be a full day out, but if you time it to include lunch it will kill a little while.

A great little train, fun way to connect between Heatherslaw and Etal. Loved the Mill ( restocked my bread flour) including the cakes and coffee in the tea rooms, loved the art and jewellery and loved the tearooms in Etal for lunch.

Nice little journey to Etal Castle. Friendly staff. Etal village itself is a lovely place to walk around.

A charming little railway set in a fantastic area. £30 for a family ticket which i feel is worth it as it helps keep these lively little locomotives running.

What a great way to spend a few hours, cute steam train, castle ,lavender tea rooms were good, All the staff were delightful Also did the river walk... A good day Thank you 😊