Area

Local Activities:
• 18 Hole Golf Course (Off Site 15 km)
• Cycling Facilities
• Cycling (Off Site 15 km)
• Mountain Biking (Off Site 15 km)
• Equestrian Facilities
• Pony Trekking (Off Site 15 km)
• Equestrian Centre (Off Site 15 km)

• Aikwood Tower (30 km) - Owned by Borders MP, Sir David Steel. It was restored in 1990 as a family home.

Restored in 1992 by Lord Steel of Aikwood, Aikwood Tower (also Oakwood Tower) sits 4 miles (6 km) south west of Selkirk by the hamlet of Oakwood in Ettrickdale. Built in 1535 for the Scott family on land granted by James V, it passed to the Murrays, then back to the Scotts, before being sold to Lord Steel to become his home.

By the late 18th century, the tower was no longer inhabited and it continued as an out-building for the adjoining farm. Lord Steel's prize-winning restoration was able to begin shortly after he acquired the property from the Duke of Buccleuch in 1989. The tower is four storeys high with an attic and corner cap-houses, the adjoining byre is used for exhibitions. These include a permanent exhibition describing the life of author and poet, James Hogg, the 'Ettrick Shepherd' (1770 - 1835).

• Dawyck Botanic Gardens, Stobo (25 km) - Open daily from mid-October. Shop and light refreshments sold.

• Kalzie Gardens, Peebles (25 km) - 15 acres of grounds open 7 days/week throughout the year. Art gallery, gift shop, restaurant, trout pond.

• Mellerstain Castle (30 km) - This castle holds a collection of paintings and stands in beautiful parkland. Unusual thatched cottage, gift shop and tea room.