Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel to Learn 2023 – A Little Place to Learn
Earlier this year, the South of Scotland, an area we are so lucky to call home, was awarded the title of “Best in Travel to Learn 2023” by Lonely Planet. The Scottish Borders holds significant history and beauty being home to stately homes and castles, historical battles and famous writers and poets.
Milne Graden loves to share a few of our favourite things to do in the local area with visitors – holidaymakers and fishermen/women alike. Sharing stories of the Scottish Borders for us began with wee pocket-size note-lets in each cottage, highlighting the very best places we thought were worth a visit, along with our own recommendations on local and seasonal dining experiences. These “Top Tips” evolved over time into the Milne Graden Press as visitors know it today. The newspaper, which is published bi-annually, explores favourite local hidden gems, introduces members of the inhouse A team, and shares seasonal stories from the estate.
This Lonely Planet award reinforces why the Scottish Borders is one of the best places to learn in 2023, and we couldn’t agree more! Join us on a stay in one of our 8 Milne Graden Holiday Cottages and discover some of our favourite places in the Scottish Borders through our newspaper.
Melrose
Melrose is a picturesque town in the heart of the Scottish Borders, which is bursting with history from Melrose Abbey to Abbotsford House, the home of famous Scottish historian and writer Sir Walter Scott. Only a short drive from Melrose is the awe-inspiring Great Tapestry of Scotland – a must-see for Scottish history lovers and art enthusiasts.
Enjoy learning about the history of the town, then a stroll down the charming main street of Melrose and discover the independent antique shops and purveyors of fine foods selling local produce. Pop in for a tasty afternoon treat to one of the many coffee shops – our favourite is Twelve Triangles Bakery and Cafe…an offshoot from Edinburgh.
Kelso
A thriving market town west of Milne Graden and on the junction of the River Tweed and Teviot is Kelso. Saunter along on the cobbled streets that lead to the Lilliputian town square with a visit to the River Tweed Salmon Fishing Museum, or explore the magnificent 300-year-old Floors Castle and gardens which stand on the banks of the Tweed and are only a short drive away. Enjoy a refreshment at the Naked Sourdough café or pick up a sweet treat from the wonderful Dessert Diva to complete your adventures. The Deli Next Door does fabulous lunches and or/a glass of Rose outside, and for something finer, The Contented Vine continues to be an enjoyable experience in Kelso’s old cinema.
Duns
Located just a short drive or gentle bike ride from Milne Graden is the town of Duns. Explore the town with a walk around the grounds of Duns Castle or a visit to the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum. After learning about the life of one of the all-time greatest racing drivers and discovering Duns’ hidden gems, stop by the Jim Clark Bistro for a light lunch or delicious coffee and cake.
Milne Graden is immersed in an abundance of nature and is surrounded by a myriad of wonderful places for visitors to discover – the estate is also a great place if you wish to stay put for the day. From the mighty giant Redwood trees brought back by Admiral Milne from his overseas trips to the salmon fishing heritage, there is no shortage of things to enjoy during a visit. We remain committed to introducing new offers and experiences to our guests through our own experiences and helping visitors discover what makes the South of Scotland ‘The Best Place to Learn in 2023’. Through the Milne Graden Press, we can help you on your journey through the Scottish Borders – but remember, there are always plenty more reasons to come back.
For those who would like to discover the area further, we highly recommend browsing through the abundant suggestions on https://scotlandstartshere.com/.
