Kelso is located in the beautiful Scottish Borders, where the River Tweed and River Teviot meet. Kelso is known for its cobbled streets, large market square and abbey. Burnbrae Holidays is 3 miles north of Kelso. We have 3 self-catering cottages ideally located for exploring the beautiful Borders. For those who wish to minimise journeys, Kelso is only 3 miles away. There are many things to do and visit in Kelso. Here we have just listed a few. If you feel that we have missed out an attraction please feel free to contact us, as we are open to suggestions and updates.
Kelso Abbey
Kelso Abbey dates back to 1128 when David I, King of Scotland moved the monks from Selkirk to Kelso and set up the Abbey. The abbey is located on Bridge street just off the market square.
Shopping in Kelso is a pleasure
Here in Kelso, we are very lucky to have many independent, unique shops, including craft shops, boutiques, and an independent cycle shop. There is also an outdoor Farmers Market held on the 4th Saturday of every month, in the market square, selling mainly locally produced food.
Julian’s Veg shop is located in the carpark to Mayfield garden center near the river Tweed. At Mayfield you will find an amazing array of plants and anything to do with your garden it also has a large cafe with indoor and outdoor seating.
Riverside walks
There are many walks along the River Tweed and River Teviot. From Kelso market square walk along Bridge Street to the Old Bridge which is above Junction Pool, renown worldwide for salmon fishing. At Burnbrae Holidays we can give you instructions to walk a 2 mile circuit around both bridges in Kelso, or for a longer walk out of town along the River Teviot to Roxburgh. The Border Abbeys Way is a long-distance walk between the abbeys in Kelso, Melrose, Jedburgh, and Dryburgh. There is also a cycle route connecting the 4 abbeys. Both trails are a fantastic way to explore the beautiful Borders countryside and both pass through Kelso.
Kelso Races
Kelso Racecourse is known as Britains friendliest racecourse. Why not treat yourself to a special day out while you are staying at Burnbrae Holidays?
Kelso Golf Club
Kelso Golf Club Is an 18 hole , 71 par flat course located next to the racecourse. There is a welcoming club house which serves meals and drinks.
Kelso Swimming Pool
Kelso swimming pool is located about half a mile from the market square on Inch road.
Borders Ice Rink
Borders Ice Rink is open from October 1st until Easter. The rink is found about 3/4 mile from Kelso market square on Golf course road, (next door to the golf course !). It is used mainly for curling, teams from all over the Borders come and use it as their home rink. On Sunday afternoons it is open to the public for ice skating~ all welcome.
Cafes, Pubs and Restaurants
There are many cafes, pubs and restaurants in Kelso town center. Selling delicous food to serve all tastes. See our Places to Eat page
Borders Events Center at Springwood Park
On the edge of Kelso next to the River Tweed is the beautiful Border Union Show ground. There are many events held at Springwood park including the annual Border Union show in July, dog shows, craft fayres, Country & Western weekends, Ram sales, the annual Scooter rally. The Springwood Hall in Springwood Park is the home of the Border Union Agricultural Society.
17th-19th March 2023 Borders Art Fair
Floors Castle
Is the Duke of Roxburgh’s magnificent residence, Floors Castle. There are 2 cafes, walks, a cycle trail and large gardens. Floors castle grounds hosts many events including the annual Massed Pipe Band Day in August and more recently outdoor concerts.
Angraflats cycle trails
On the way into Kelso from Burnbrae is Angraflats mountain biking trails. It includes a 1.5km cross country loop, a pump track, two jump lines and a skills area. Anyone can use it for free.