Places

View the buildings and scenery in and around Kelso then read on to find out more about the town.

The beautiful market town of Kelso is set in the heart of Scotland's Border country where the River Tweed and the River Teviot meet. Buildings in the town date from the 12th Century to the present-day.

Turret House

Kelso Abbey was founded in 1128 after monks moved from Selkirk Abbey at the behest of King David I. Today the abbey lies in ruins and only a glimmer of its past glory remains. The town of Kelso grew up around the abbey and was, at first, little more than a suburb of the town of Roxburgh. Nothing remains of the military and royal medieval stronghold of Roxburgh today having been destroyed by wars and decay.

Things to do

Town pride comes to the fore in Kelso's civic week held in July. This is a week of celebration in Kelso, part of the Borders towns Common Ridings celebrations.  The week culminates in the Kelso Laddie and his supporters ride out to Yetholm and the lead up to this includes fun days, exhibitions, concerts, sporting events and a ball. With 2009 designated as Homecoming year Kelso is celebrating with a programme of 'Kelso Connections' including special exhibitions and talks.

September brings the St James Fair to Kelso. This is a two day event with a history going back to the days of Roxburgh in the 13th Century. The medieval themed fair sees locals and traders donning historical costumes to enjoy entertainment, shopping and exhibitions based around the cobbled Market Square.

Kelso street sign

Other annual events include The Border Union Agricultural show held in Springwood Park at the end of July and The British Motorcycle Federation Rally also held in July.

The 'national asset' that is Floors Castle dates from 1721 and was designed by William Playfair. The fairytale castle has walled gardens and an adventure playground as well as a magnificent collection of paintings and furniture. Archery, falconry and fishing are also available on the estate.

Kelso's historical past can be further expored by taking a walk through the town to admire buildings ranging from Georgian gems such as the town hall and the boyhood home of Sir Walter Scott, Waverley Cottage.

Away from it all

Kelso is famous for its horse racing whether you fancy a small flutter or a more corporate experience. The racecourse was voted as 'Britain's friendliest racecourse'.

Kelso's river location makes it ideal angling territory and Kelso hosts the Tweed angling fair in May. Kelso has two golf courses.

The ice rink in Kelso is available for curling on a members-only basis and re-opens for public ice-skating in October 2009.

Floors Castle

Scenic walks can be taken in and around the town. Admire the town and surrounding landcape from the Millennium viewpoint or cross Kelso Bridge, the blueprint for Waterloo Bridge. If your legs are fit enough for a longer walk then try the Borders Abbey Way with Kelso Abbey as the start and end point for the way. The circular walk clocks in at almost 65 miles and takes in Kelso, Jedburgh, Melrose and Dryburgh Abbeys.

Have we missed anything?