Melrose

The most picturesque of the Borders towns and home of 7-a-side rugby. The Abbey (above), wrecked like the others by Henry VIII, is where Robert the Bruce's heart is said to be buried. The Abbey was further damaged by a local family, the Douglases, who used its stones to build their own house at the end of the Cloisters. Sir Walter Scott, the famous 19th century romantic novelist, superintended the subsequent repair works.

Abbotsford, Scott's home, is 3km from Melrose. If you have the time it is well worth a trip, stuffed as it is with Scottish curios. It is a monument to 19th century Scottish triumphalism - an utter delight (T:+44 (0)1896 752043). Abbotsford is where he composed some of his classics, which include Waverley, Rob Roy, Ivanhoe and The Lady of the Lake.

Sir Walter Scott purchased Cartleyhole farmhouse on the banks of the River Tweed in 1812. Together with his family and servants, he moved into the farm which he renamed Abbotsford.

Scott was a passionate collector of historic relics, including an impressive collection of armour and weapons, Rob Roy's gun and Montrose's sword, and over 9,000 rare volumes in his library.

Visitors will be able to Sir Walter Scott's study, library, drawing room, entrance hall and armouries, and the dining room overlooking the Tweed where Sir Walter died on 21st September, 1832.




Accommodation
George & Abbotsford Hotel, High St, Melrose, TD6 9PD

A former coaching inn with lots of character close to the Abbey and the
Tweed. All rooms are en-suite, food is freshly prepared and local; spacious bar and restaurant in a comfortable and spacious family hotel. Sells locally brewed ales and locally sourced food. Deals possible for those spending more than one night.

Run by: Philip & Janette Titley

Tel:  01896 822308
Fax:  01896 823363
Web:  www.georgeandabbotsford.co.uk
Email:  enquiries@georgeandabbotsford.co.uk

Rooms :   5S, 7D, 13T, 1Triple, 1F
B&B:  £45-£55
Packed lunch:  £6.50
Evening meal:  £8.95 to £17.95
Safe storage, bike washing and drying facilities.  VisitBritain 2-star hotel
 


Fiorlin, Abbey St, Melrose, TD6 9PX

Right in the centre of Melrose. Lovely old house full of character within its own walled grounds. Secure lock up and ideal stop off.

Run by: Kenny Paterson

Telephone  01896 822984
Email  fiorlin@btinternet.com
Web  www.melroseaccommodation.co.uk

Rooms  1D, 1T/Tpl
B&B  £30-£40
Packed lunch  £5
VisitScotland  3 star
 


Fauhope, Melrose, TD6 9LU

An Edwardian country house in 15
acres of grounds overlooking the Tweed and Melrose
Abbey; a stunning location. It is just a few minutes'
walk from the centre of Melrose, over the footbridge

Run by: Mrs Sheila Robson


Tel: 01896 823184
Email: fauhope@bordernet.co.uk

Rooms :   2D, 2T.
B&B:  £23 or £25.
Packed Lunch.  From £5.
Evening meal: by arrangement.
VisitScotland 4-star; AA 5-star  10 minutes from pubs & restaurants.
 




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