Stobo Kirk, Peeblesshire

Stobo Kirk is one of the oldest churches in the Scottish Borders. The church is believed to have been founded by St Kentigern (St Mungo). Much of the present day building dates from the 12^th century & stands on the site of the 6^th century church. The church retains much of its 12^th century architecture as it survived the 16^thcentury Reformation intact. The 16^th century also saw the tower being raised above the first floor. 1863 saw restoration carried out by the renowned Scottish architect & artist John Lessels. Further restorations were carried out in 1929 & 1991. The dullness of the exterior is more than compensated by the beauty of the interior.

Jougs are an iron collar fastened by a short chain to the wall of the Parish Church and used for church & civil offences. They were attached around the offender’s neck by padlock; therefore punishing the offender by public humiliation.

Traquair House, Peeblesshire

Traquair House dates back to the 12^th century when it was a hunting lodge for the Kings & Queens of Scotland. In the late 15^th century the Earl of Buchan purchased Traquair House & gave to his second son James Stewart; since then it has remained in the same family. James Stewart became the first Laird of Traquair in 1491; his descendant the seventh Laird was granted the Earldom of Traquair in 1628. The Earldom became extinct following the death of the eighth Earl in 1861; since then the owners reverted to their historical title of Laird of Traquair.

The fifth Earl of Traquair installed the Bear Gates at the top of the avenue in 1738. According to legend the gates were closed following a visit of Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) in 1745. The Earl of Traquair vowed they would never be opened again until a Stuart King sat on the throne again.

 

Interesting Arts & Crafts Links

Hunter Art & Tile Studio, Harestanes Visitors Centre, Ancrum, Jedburgh, TD8 6UQ

www.hunterartandtilestudio.co.uk

Buydesign Gallery, Harestanes Visitors Centre, Ancrum, Jedburgh, TD8 6UQ

www.buydesigngallery.com

Tickety Boo, The Hirsel, Centre for Arts & Crafts, Coldstream, TD12 4LW

www.tickettyboo.co.uk

Abbey Ceramics, The Hirsel, Centre for Arts & Crafts, Coldstream, TD12 4LW

www.abbeyceramics.co.uk

Sunset at Scott's View, Bemersyde

Scott’s View

The viewpoint from Bemersyde Hill towards the Eildons is located between Earlston & St. Boswells in the Scottish Borders. The view was made famous by Sir Walter Scott as it was reputed to be his favourite view of Borders countryside. Sir Walter Scott stopped at this viewpoint so often on his way to his home Abbotsford that his horses halted without command to allow him to enjoy the view. Following his death in 1832 the funeral procession passed this way on its way to Dryburgh Abbey where is buried; tradition has it that his horses halted to allow him to enjoy his favourite view of the Borders countryside.

 

The Four Borders Abbeys

Dryburgh Abbey

Jedburgh Abbey

Kelso Abbey

Melrose Abbey

Dunfermline Guest House, Melrose

If you are looking for a traditional & warm Borders welcome I can recommend Dunfermline Guest House in Melrose. I spent four nights recently in this delightful & comfortable home from home establishment. The hosts, Bryan & Alison Bell, were very friendly & welcoming. My room was exceptionally comfortable with many extra touches that are not normally provided in Guest Houses. The breakfast menu was varied & catered for all tastes & dietary needs. A definite 10/10 from me. I’ll definitely be returning again.

Contact Bryan & Alison at Dunfermline Guest House on 01896 822411 or contact via their website www.dunfermlinehouse.co.uk

Peace & Tranquility

Loch of the Lowes looking toward Riskenhope Farm, Selkirkshire

Ettrick Kirk, Selkirkshire