Melrose

The triple peaks of the Eildon Hills are the most distinctive single landmark in the Borders. At their feet in the valley of the River Tweed lies Melrose, 1992 Scottish Tourism Town of the Year and birthplace of the game of rugby sevens.
The ruined abbey is dated from 1136. The recent discovery of a casket believed to contain the heart of Robert the Bruce was marked last year by a re-burial ceremony and commemorative stone tablet. The Abbey is also the starting point for the 4 Abbeys Cycle Route, the 55 mile (88 km) circular route which was launched last April. Adjacent Priorwood Garden specialises in plants suitable for dried flower arranging with an apple orchard walk and picnic area. Nearby Harmony Gardens opened to the public for the first time last year, the walled garden has magnificent views over the abbey and Eildon Hills.
The Trimontium Exhibition gives an insight into the Romans in Scotland, and The Wynd Theatre provides regular live entertainment. Three miles west on the banks of the River Tweed is Sir Walter Scott's romantic mansion of Abbotsford.
On the opposite banks of the Tweed, Gattonside can be reached on foot by a sturdy suspension bridge. To the south lies Lilliesleaf, another charming little village with nearby garden centre.
Four miles south is St Boswells, a village with a spacious tree-lined green. Nearby, Mertoun offers 20 acres of scenic gardens. Dryburgh Abbey lies in a secluded, peaceful setting by the River Tweed and a woodland walk leads to the massive 22 foot high sandstone statue of William Wallace.