Old Melrose Estate
Near Melrose, Scottish Borders
Retreat to Nature on the Old Melrose Estate. Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders just two miles from Melrose on the banks of the River Tweed the historic Old Melrose Estate is a peaceful and secluded riverside retreat teaming with nature and wildlife. Dog friendly cottages, tearooms and woodland walks allow you to connect with nature whilst following in the footsteps of the monks who first settled here in 640AD.
Set in a meander of the River Tweed, just 2 miles from Melrose, the Old Melrose Estate lies in a wooded gorge that keeps it almost completely hidden from the outside world. Stunning trees with spectacular autumn colours and an amazing array of wildlife make this a perfect spot for people wanting to retreat from the pressures of modern life and connect with nature on an Estate focused on nature conservation. Old Melrose Estate is a 300 acre mixed arable and sheep farm set in the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders. Its central location and stunning riverside landscape make it an attractive destination for visitors keen to enjoy its wildlife and natural beauty. Whether casting a fly in pursuit of a salmon, visiting the tearooms for a slice of cake and a cup of tea, or staying in one of Its dog friendly holiday cottages you are guaranteed a memorable visit. A walk through the woodlands or a stroll along the riverside paths will enable you to enjoy a natural landscape unaltered over the last 200 years.
East Tweed
Benefitting from an open plan living area with wood-burning stove and French doors, this lodge lets guests to enjoy spectacular views whilst staying cosy.
West Tweed
One of pair of larch-clad rural retreats with an open plan layout with everything easily to hand and surrounded by glorious scenery to explore.
The Folly
Sitting in an elevated position nestled in woodland above the River Tweed, this is the ultimate fairytale escape with stained glass windows to complete the magic.
River Cottage
A gorgeous, converted coach house that has been lovingly refurbished in a country cottage style and allows guests access to a spectacular walled garden.
Tweed Cottage
This cottage is just a stroll away from the wonderful tearooms and a furniture studio full of beautifully unique treasures.
Activities to Try
Nature Conservation
William & Frankie Younger are the fourth generation to live at Old Melrose since its purchase as a family home and working Estate in 1900. Under their stewardship the Estate now focuses on Nature Conservation and working with nature to build a more sustainable future as well as using education to empower future generations to do the same. They have overseen a diversification of the Estate’s activities which now include new Holiday cottages, Tearooms, Walks and a Woodland Classroom. They live on the Estate with their 3 children, 2 dogs, 3 pigs, 10 chickens and 2 horses.
“We are passionate about nature and the environment and our vision is to ensure that everyone visiting Old Melrose has the opportunity to enjoy our wonderful landscape and wildlife whilst connecting with nature in a manner that inspires them to learn something new about it. Research shows that those people who have a close connection with nature experience improved mental and physical well-being and are more likely to protect it in the future.” William Younger
The Estate is focused on improving its biodiversity and giving the best possible support to its wildlife, trees and plants. This form of Nature Conservation is achieved by constantly monitoring and improving all the different habitats, linking different habitats together through the use of habitat corridors and by making changes to the way the land is farmed so that the Estate’s nature and wildlife benefits from all farming decisions.
Nature At Its Finest
With over 1,500 years of History, the Old Melrose Estate provides you with a nature retreat like no other. A place to relax and recharge your batteries and connect with nature at its best. Its riverside and woodland walks contain a wonderful array of plants, trees and wildlife make it one of the best kept secrets in the Scottish Borders. The Old Melrose Tearooms in a converted farm steading offers a wonderful place to stop off for a light lunch or cup of tea and scone whilst exploring the wider Estate.
The charm of the Old Melrose Estate lies in its stunning riverside landscape and viewpoints interspersed with several miles of riverside and woodland walks. There are few places where you can see Salmon jumping, Ospreys in their nest and Roe deer grazing in the morning dew all on the same day. Add in the resident Otters, Kingfishers and Barn Owls and it really is a nature lover's paradise. The mature woodlands give a staggering show of colours in the Autumn and include trees which were planted over 300 years ago as well as one of the tallest Douglas Fir in the South of Scotland. Come and explore an Estate committed to protecting and enhancing its wonderful nature and wildlife.
Activities in the Local Area
Whilst many visitors never leave the Estate, the Scottish Borders offers a multitude of things to do for those keen to explore. You can easily fill your day walking in the countryside or simply exploring our local towns of Melrose, Kelso, Jedburgh and Peebles which all have lovely tearooms and wonderful visitor attractions. For the history buff there are over fifty Castles, Stately Homes, Follies and other heritage buildings to visit. For those wanting a more strenuous activity there is Fishing, Golf, Mountain Biking, Road Cycling, Hiking, Kayaking, Horse Riding and Wild Swimming. Further afield there are day trips to Edinburgh and the Northumberland Coast followed by evenings spent dining in our local pubs and restaurants. There is always a reason to return at the end of your stay.
Whether you wish to get away and relax in natural seclusion or are looking to explore the many historical sights, Old Melrose Estate provides an idyllic base.
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