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Things to do in the Scottish Borders

The Borders really do have something for everyone, and you are sure to find something to match your interests. Below is a list of some of the most popular recreational activities in the area. If your interest isn't listed below, please check out our links or contact us and we will be only too pleased to help you.

Megget Reservoir

Whilst staying at the Cross Keys Inn why not try your luck at fly fishing on the Megget Reservoir. Day Tickets are available at the Inn from £10 a day fishing from the bank and £30 a day with a boat, life jackets are provided. The Reservoir is well stocked with brown trout and the scenery is breath taking, and it's only 20 minutes from the Inn.

Mountain Biking

If you're into mountain biking why not stay at one of our cottages that can sleep up to 8 people. We also offer secure storage and washing facilities for all of your mountain bike gear. After a hard days riding why not relax in the Restaurant and Inn, where we offer great home cooked food, ales, malts and draught beer in front of an open fire.

Glentress and Innerleithen in the Tweed Valley have a massive reputation for some of the best mountain biking in the UK and it's only 30 minutes drive from the Cross Keys Inn.

Glentress is probably the best biking centre in Britain, with brilliant trails of all grades, a top-notch cafe, a bike shop with bike hire, changing and showering facilities, and a great atmosphere.

Innerleithen, situated just a few miles south east of Glentress, is quite different from its better-known sister - away from the hustle and bustle, it's a venue for the more experienced rider.

Golf in the Borders

The Scottish Borders offer some of the best value golf that you are likely to find anywhere. With the Freedom of the Fairways package and the number of 9 or 18 hole courses you can play, there can be no excuse for not having a golfing break. The Cross Keys Inn is an ideal base for such a break with most courses within a 30 minute drive.

Fishing

The Scottish Borders offer some of the best fresh water fishing in Scotland at prices that will not break the bank. Come and fish for trout or salmon in rivers such as the Yarrow, Ettrick Water, Tweed and Teviot or why not give our many lochs and reservoirs a try. Trout fishing permits are available from the Cross Keys Inn and Salmon permits can be arranged upon request.

Walking, Cycling and Riding

Walking, Cycling and Riding in the Borders is often over-looked by those who think that the only places to walk in Scotland are to the North. They would be in for a pleasant surprise if they stopped in the Borders. There is walking for everybody, from the serious walker to the casual rambler. A small booklet called Brigend Walks is available from the Cross Keys Inn with detailed walks around the village.

Cyclists have the choice of riding around on the country roads visiting the charming villages all around the area and also the spectacular scenery between them. Any serious mountain bikers will doubtlessly have just one thing on their minds Glentress the renowned biking course just a short journey up the road from Ettrickbridge.

Horse Riding

Horse Riding is huge in this area with stabling available nearby this an ideal spot for a rider and horse get-away. With rides varying from a trek down the Ettrick or Yarrow Valley to the famous Buccleuch Rides or the Selkirk common-riding a historic journey around the border of Selkirk (taking place each June).

Historic sites

Traquair House is the oldest inhabited house in Scotland, it has a colourful past and has been visited by over 27 monarchs including Mary Queen of Scots. Bowhill, hidden deep in woodland set in magnificent scenery, has many priceless paintings and a ‘Little Theatre‘, host to many top entertainers. Abbotsford, home to the great novelist Sir Walter Scott is also close by. Melrose Abbey is home to the heart of Robert the Bruce, the great Scottish King. Floors Castle is an extravagant castellated fantasy where you can wander through spectacular staterooms filled with priceless European paintings, tapestries and furnishings.

Edinburgh

Is full of yet more historic sites such as Edinburgh Castle or the National Gallery, and is within a reasonable distance to go on a day trip. A wander along the Royal Mile will provide a venture back into civilisation for a bit of retail therapy.