Close Attractions
Explore one of four great abbeys established in the Scottish Borders in the 1100s. Built over more than 70 years, Jedburgh is striking for its unusual mix of Romanesque and early Gothic architecture.
See the remains of ancillary buildings where the brethren ate and slept, and the vast kitchen and cellar ranges. Then walk in the recreated cloister garden to reflect on life in the medieval abbey.
Some exceptional early Christian artefacts, which pre-date the abbey by several centuries, are on display in the visitor centre.
Mary Queen of Scots' Visitor Centre
Set in the centre of historic Jedburgh, this 16th century towerhouse is a four star visitor attraction and tells the story of Scotland’s tragic queen. Mary’s month here in Jedburgh in 1566 was a turning point in her life. A fine display of paintings, objects and textiles associated with her explores not only her life and times, but the cult that has grown up around her.
The period feel inside the house has been preserved with thoughtful design, which allows the story of Mary’s life to be told in an engaging way. The Rogues Gallery introduces the individuals in the drama of Mary’s life, while the Last Letter Room reveals her final thoughts before her execution. Also find out about her ill-fated ride to Hermitage Castle to meet her adviser and future husband, the Earl of Bothwell, which resulted in her falling gravely ill. She would later lament ‘Would that I had died in Jedburgh.’
The house sits in attractive gardens, home to some of Jedburgh’s famous pear trees, descendants of the original pear trees planted around Jedburgh Abbey in the early 1800s.
Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum
Jedburgh Jail looks like a grand castle, but inside it’s a different story! The museum is a 4 star visitor attraction and gives visitors a taste of what life was like in a 1820s prison. You can walk through the original cell blocks, see some of inmates and their conditions and follow their stories. Find out why some people thought it was the most comfortable jail in Scotland. The building has also gained a reputation for ghostly sightings!
The Jailer’s house is home to the town museum, telling the story of the Royal Burgh of Jedburgh from ancient times, with exhibitions focusing on traditions, industries and the town’s rich history. Displays trace the stories of some of the town’s famous people – Mary Somerville the mathematician, David Brewster the inventor of the kaleidoscope and James Veitch the astronomer.
Built on the site of old Jedburgh Castle, the building was designed in a castellated style by locally born architect Archibald Elliot – famous for designing Calton Jail in Edinburgh. The Jail also has a ghostly reputation, with paranormal investigations and overnight visits available.
Floors Castle & Gardens
Floors Castle, the largest inhabited castle in Scotland and family home of the 11th Duke of Roxburghe. Built for the 1st Duke of Roxburghe in 1721, what you see is an evolving story of a house and gardens with impressions left by succeeding generations. We welcome visitors from near and far to come and enjoy this inspiring Castle and its surroundings. From our spectacular Victorian Walled Garden with glasshouses, herbaceous borders and a formal Millennium Garden, to woodland and riverside walks and a delightful cycle trail, there is so much to discover. Families are always welcome and we actively encourage children to explore and have fun during their visit.
Abbotsford The Home Of Sir Walter Scott
Abbotsford is the extraordinary home of the 19th century novelist and ‘Great Scott’ who popularised tartan, saved the Scottish banknote and rediscovered his country’s Crown Jewels.
Discover a treasure trove of intriguing objects which inspired his greatest poems and novels. Learn about Scott’s life, browse the gift shop, enjoy seasonal food in our café or simply relax in the beautiful formal gardens and tranquil woodlands.
Created almost 200 years ago by the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders, Abbotsford is now just a short train ride from Edinburgh.
Scott's View
Leaderfoot Viaduct
