2 days ago
The charming Scottish Borders town near Edinburgh that was named 'most welcoming'
It was singled out for its culture and scenic landscapes.
If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern living for a day or two, Scotland has no shortage of idyllic destinations. When it comes to staycation spots, Scotland's countless scenic towns and villages are perfect for a getaway.
There are many different things to consider when choosing a holiday destination, from the number of restaurants and cafés to access to pretty walks. Another factor that is very important is the friendliness of the locals.
One town that is known for its charm is Peebles in the Scottish Borders. It was even previously named among the "most welcoming" towns in Scotland by WorldAtlas.
Peebles, which is nestled along the River Tweed, can be reached in around one hour from Edinburgh by car. Despite its close proximity to the Scottish capital, the town feels worlds away from the noise of the city.
WorldAtlas praised Peebles as a top destination for art lovers, with the town home to popular galleries such as the Moy Mackay Gallery and Gustaf's Studio And Gallery. It also praised the landscapes surrounding the town as being "plucked straight out of an oil painting".
Peebles offers easy access to many picturesque walking and hiking trails, including the Neidpath Castle and Viaduct Circular and Hay Lodge Park. The former takes in various beauty spots, including the centuries-old Neidpath Castle and the 'eerie' abandoned train tunnel so dark you can't through to the other side.
This week also marks the return of Peebles' annual Beltane Festival, which will take place from June 15 to 21. Every year, the festival brings people from the town and across the Scottish Borders together for a programme of historic traditions and summertime fun.
The town is also in close proximity to many picturesque gardens perfect for a summer outing, with Kailzie Gardens and the Dawyck Botanic Garden being two of the most popular. Kailzie Gardens is home to 20 acres of gardens and woodlands, as well as a popular café, while the Dawyck Botanic Garden is famous for its seasonal displays—with June being the best time to see its colourful Azalea Terrace.
Elsewhere, the peaceful Glentress Forest is just a short distance from Peebles. Known as among the top mountain biking destinations in the UK, there are also various walking trails around the forest that range from quick and easy strolls to more strenuous hikes.
Other attractions in Peebles include the 1881 Distillery and Gin School and the ancient Cross Kirk. Meanwhile, the Eastgate Theatre is a great place to escape the rain for a couple of hours to watch a film or a play.
Peebles also features a wide variety of friendly and charming cafés, pubs, and restaurants. Top spots for a meal around town include Franco's pizzeria and Coltman's Kitchen, Deli and Bar, while the Bridge Inn and The County are among the local-favourite pubs.
WorldAtlas stated: "A popular destination for artists and art lovers, Peebles, Scotland, is a happening little town characterized by its growing art scene and natural landscapes that appear to be plucked straight out of an oil painting. Visitors can spend hours admiring various forms of art in places such as the Moy Mackay Gallery or The Eastgate Theatre.
"Visiting artists looking for real-life inspiration can admire the perfectly maintained (and often endangered) plants at Dawyck Botanic Garden. Or, take an afternoon and explore the nearby Glentress Forest, which features hiking and biking trails, tree-top adventures, and an educational wildlife room.
"The forest trails range from easy beginner-level paths to more strenuous hikes, but all trails branch off of the same Multi-User Trail. Peebles is also known for hosting regular festivals, including the Peebles Beltane Festival–a week-long event consisting of horse riding, disco dancing, fairgrounds, and parades."
For the full list of the "nine most welcoming towns in Scotland", visit the WorldAtlas website.
