Step back in time and discover more about Berwickshire's long and rich past.
Berwickshire is packed with history, dating back to the Iron Age all the way to the modern day. From castles to Roman forts and gorgeous stately homes, there's plenty to help you discover all there is to know about the region and its rich past.
With so much to explore, Berwickshire is a wonderful spot to visit, whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for new places to explore with the family.
As Berwickshire's history spans several centuries, there's no lack of forts, remains and settlements dating back to the Iron Age and Roman era. Whether you're looking to discover more about daily life in a Roman fort, or a walk with history at the end, there's plenty for you to explore in Berwickshire.
The name 'Trimontium' means 'place of three hills' in Latin, and this is where the Romans constructed a fort to be used as a base for the conquest of the surrounding area. The site is the biggest Roman complex in Scotland and, though the walls and structures are no longer standing, you can still see the basic layout, and the museum is a great place to discover more about the Roman and Iron Age communities of Scotland's past.
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It's very easy to pass by the fascinating remains of Bunkle Castle, but there's no doubt the building was once an imposing structure that couldn't be missed. The castle originally belonged to the de Bonkyll family before being passed on to the Stewart family and later to the Douglases. Though not much remains of the castle, there's plenty of history behind it, so it's a fabulous spot for history buffs to explore.
Discover moreFrom the magnificence of Thirlestane Castle to the ruins of Rhymer's Tower, Berwickshire is home to some wonderful spots for history buffs to explore. If you're looking for where to find out more about the region, its past and some of its most notable families, be sure to add these to your itinerary.
This magnificent 16th century castle is set within a remarkable estate, offering plenty for all visitors to explore. A guided tour will take you on a journey through history, where you’ll discover glorious collections and some of the castle’s most fascinating stories dating back to the 12th century. There are also beautiful grounds to wander, offering walking routes, breathtaking views and glimpses of local wildlife.
Renowned for being one of only two Baronial structures by architect James Gillespie Graham, this 19th century castle makes a wonderful day out for history buffs and families alike. With beautiful garden terraces, vast parkland and lush woodland to explore, as well as guided tours of the castle, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Eyemouth Fort was built in 1547 and was one of the first Trance Italienne fortifications in Britain, constructed after the war known as the "Rough Wooing". While there isn't much to see on the site today, you'll be treated to glorious views over the town and Berwickshire coast, and you can stop off at the Eyemouth Museum to see the fort as it was in its glory days through their virtual reality experience.
Dating back to the 14th century, and home of the Hay family since 1696, Duns Castle is a wonderfully unique spot with plenty to offer everyone. From archery and croquet to falconry and clay pigeon shooting, as well as plenty of seasonal events, there's something to give the whole family a great day out.
These ruins can be found at the top of a rocky promontory projecting from the cliffs north-west of St Abbs Head. The first mention of a castle in this spot was in 1333, though it's believed the site was fortified for centuries before, and passed through many owners before falling into disrepair and ruin. The stroll up to the castle is around three quarters of a mile long and offers glorious views. When visiting, make sure to take care as the ground is very uneven and steep.
Once a great 16th century Border peel tower, not much remains of Rhymer's Tower, but the site does bring together recorded history and local folklore. The tower is to be the residence of Thomas the Rhymer, an early Scottish poet who flourished in the 13th century. He was also a reputed seer and, according to the traditional folk tale, had an encounter with the Queen of the Fairies beneath the Eildon Tree near Melrose.
Whether you're looking for a rainy day activity or fancy a relaxing outing, a trip to a stately home is a great way to learn more about Berwickshire and the region's most notable families over the years.
Possibly the only remaining complete building designed by Robert Adam and one of Scotland's finest stately homes dating back to 1725, Mellerstain House is a must-see on your trip to Berwickshire. Inside you'll find a wonderful collection of fine art, period furniture, embroidery and more, and there is also an Italian-style terraced garden.
This magnificent Edwardian stately home was originally built in the 18th century and remodelled by the architect John Kinross in 1905. A unique treasure lies inside, with a marble hall, ballroom and the only silver staircase in the world, as well as 60 acres of gardens to wander, from the beautiful lake to the woodland garden.
This Grade A-listed Palladian mansion was built between 1750-1755 by Hugh Hume-Campbell, and its interior is arguably one of Scotland's finest. The house retains many of its original features, including a George II period plasterwork by Thomas Clayton, and there's so much to explore inside that it makes a fantastic day out.
Alive with history and set in grounds made for exploring, Paxton House makes a great day out for the whole family. The 1758 building houses a fabulous collection of Home family treasures, from Georgian furniture to gorgeous costumes, as well as a beautiful landscape garden to spend hours exploring.
The Berwickshire coast is a truly fascinating place, with plenty of history and wildlife to discover. Whether you fancy learning about the long past of the shores or about the different marine life that call it home, there are some fabulous local spots to visit.
Discover everything about the marine and farming history of Eyemouth with a trip to this fabulous museum. With a range of exhibits on display, including the Eyemouth Tapestry, which depicts the Black Friday Fishing Disaster, there's plenty to discover inside.
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Located between St Abbs and Eyemouth, this charity reserve works to conserve the biodiversity of coastal waters, raise awareness of the marine environment and promote responsible and sustainable recreational use of the waters. Their Marine Education Centre makes a wonderful day out, where you can learn all about the Berwickshire coast, its history and the wildlife that call it home.
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If you fancy getting away to explore Berwickshire's fascinating past, our parks make a wonderful base. We have three parks based in Berwickshire, all close to the coast for a touch of that traditional seaside feeling, and each offering its own unique charms.
Whether you choose the award-winning beachfront location of Pease Bay, the quiet atmosphere of Scoutscroft or Coldingham Bay's countryside surroundings, there's something to suit every type of holiday.
Thurston Manor is located in East Lothian, not far from our Berwickshire parks, and offering you the chance to explore the best of the Borders' countryside and coast. If you're after a stay that's a little different, this is a great option for you.
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