The Borderlands: A tale of two countries
Shrouded in myth, steeped in legend and dotted with many a hilltop fort, ruined abbey, grand stately home and fairytale castle, the Borderlands are wildly beautiful and perfect for a history holiday.
Sitting either side of the mighty River Tweed, stretches of which historically marked the eastern side of the formerly formidable border between England and Scotland, the Borderlands encompass the adjoining regions of Northumberland and the Scottish Borders. Once a landscape of conflict, plundering, and raids, the Borderlands are now characterised by peace and tranquillity and are best known for their breathtaking stretches of unspoilt countryside, pristine coastline, quiet sandy beaches, dark skies, and rolling hills.
However, relics of their storied pasts are not to be overlooked. From imposing castles and mysterious islands to crumbling abbeys, fortified towns, and the Roman remains of Hadrian’s Wall, there’s plenty to explore and a wealth of history to discover whether you base your history holiday on the English or Scottish side of the border. Read on to discover some of our picks of the best places to stay and sites to visit for history lovers this autumn.
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Northumberland
Holy Island
A tiny tidal island with a huge historical significance, The Holy Island of Lindisfarne has played host to medieval monks and Viking raids over the centuries and is now a fascinating place to spend a day delving into its intriguing past and illustrious religious heritage. In the early 8th century, the Lindisfarne Gospels – the most important and breathtakingly beautiful manuscript to come out of Anglo-Saxon England – was created here and is home to a facsimile, the originals being housed at The British Library in London.
STAY AT: Brockmill Farmhouse | Lindisfarne View | Cambridge House
Bamburgh Castle
With battlements which seem to rise mythically from a volcanic outcrop, Bamburgh Castle looks out across the dramatic Northumbrian coastline and is one of the country’s best-preserved historic sites. From its Norman origins in the 11th century to sieges during the Wars of the Roses and its ultimate revival in the Victorian age, this spectacular fortress has maintained a central place in British history. More recently, it has provided the setting for countless films and TV series – the castellated walls reigning over the sandy beach below being a sight quite unlike any other. Gain free entry to the castle with a Historic Houses membership.
STAY AT: The Clock Tower at Bamburgh Castle | Neville Tower at Bamburgh Castle | Wren Cottage
Hadrian’s Wall
Built to defend the wild north-west border of the Roman Empire in AD122, Hadrian’s Wall snakes across the rugged moorland, rolling hills and along historic villages. Follow in the footsteps of the Romans and take a stroll along the impressive barricade, though you needn’t walk the full 84 miles! A hike to Housesteads Roman Fort combines glorious countryside views with fascinating history leading you to extensive Roman remains, or if you’re after a more gentle stroll enjoy an easy 2.5 mile loop from Chester’s Roman Fort through the village of Humshaugh. The impressive Roman Fort Vindolanda shouldn’t be missed if you’re interested in Roman military history and archaeology. There’s an amazing array of everyday items from socks to writing tablets on display at the museum here and live excavations, that take place here every year, continue to uncover remarkable items. Make sure to leave time to visit Corbridge, a historic market town with plenty of history, character and Roman heritage.
STAY AT: Shepherd’s House | The West Wing, Stagshaw House | Old Granary House
Berwick-upon-Tweed
The northernmost town in England, Berwick-upon-Tweed boasts a tumultuous past thanks to centuries of conflict between Scotland and England, with both sides laying claim to this delightful coastal town. As each attack brought new improvements to its defences, Berwick’s fortifications are still impressive to this day, its magnificent Elizabethan walls completely encircling the town. Now firmly on the southern side of the border, Berwick’s more recent history is also captivating; the Berwick Barracks is home to part of the famed Burrell Collection, while The Lowry Trail follows in the footsteps of L.S. Lowry and the artwork he created while on holiday in the town.
STAY AT: Lions House | The Loovre | Whitesand Shiel
Alnwick Castle
Known today for its starring role in numerous films and TV shows, from Harry Potter to Downton Abbey, Alnwick Castle dates back to the 11th century and its iconic silhouette has dominated this corner of Northumberland ever since. Step inside and behind the impressive exterior you’ll discover magnificent, gilded state rooms, lavished in Italian Renaissance style and adorned with an incredible collection of Old Master paintings. Home to the Percy family for over 700 years, the current Duke and Duchess of Northumberland have been instrumental in transforming the castle, which is still their family home, and creating the celebrated Alnwick Gardens as well as the imaginative play and adventure village Lilidorei . Gain free entry to the castle with a Historic Houses membership.
STAY AT: Stable Cottage, Glanton Pyke | The Old School | The Craftsman’s Cottage
Scottish Borders
Floors Castle
Just outside Kelso is the unapologetically grand Floors Castle, the seat of the Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe and the largest inhabited house in Scotland. This palatial house overlooking the River Tweed was constructed in the 18th century, with additions made a hundred years later by William Henry Playfair, giving Floors Castle its distinctive fairytale turrets. Today, the state rooms are home to marvellous tapestries, artwork and period furniture, while outside the incredible gardens are a delight to explore. During autumn and winter the castle and some of the gardens are closed, but it is well worth a visit just to wander round the spectacular four-acre walled garden – you even have the option to stay inside the gardens themselves at the exquisite Head Gardener’s House. Gain free entry to the castle with a Historic Houses membership
STAY AT: Greenhead Cottage | Head Gardener’s House at Floors Castle | The Old School, Hume
Traquair House
Dating back over 900 years, Traquair House is Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited castle. Originally a hunting lodge for Scottish royalty, the house has been visited by 27 Scottish Kings and Queens, was a place of refuge for Catholic priests in times of terror and has been the home to the Stuart family since 1491. The family were staunch supporters of Mary Queen of Scots and the Jacobite cause, discover the turnpike staircase that priests used to escape inside the house, along with historic collections that span needlework, glass and an extensive dolls collection, while outside there are extensive gardens as well as a maze. Another highlight is the Traquair House Brewery, located directly underneath the chapel it dates back to the early 1700s. Gain free entry to the castle with a Historic Houses membership.
STAY AT: Stables Cottage, Kailzie | Dalgety | The Scullery
Abbotsford
Striking yet whimsical, the truly unique Abbotsford was the beloved home of Sir Walter Scott. His own creation, the house was built in the 19th century with no end plan and the final result is certainly one-of-a-kind, inspiring the movement of Scottish Baronial architecture which followed. After immersing yourself in the bright colours and heady scents of the formal Regency garden, which contains a glass house designed by Scott himself, step inside to discover the extensive library, Sir Walter Scott’s study and his eclectic collection of arms and armour. Gain free entry to the castle with a Historic Houses membership
STAY AT: The Sheep Fold | The Railway Carriage | The Potting Shed
The Four Abbeys
Dotted across the Scottish Borders are the crumbling ruins of four impressive medieval abbeys – Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh – where you can find some of the best examples of Norman architecture in Scotland. Dating back to the 12th century, each of the abbeys has its own unique history and style, but all bear the mark of hundreds of years of conflict between Scotland and England, thanks to their close proximity to the much fought-over border. Base your history holiday here and follow the Four Abbeys cycle route to admire and soak up the stories of each of these incredible structures (which currently offer varying levels of access due to important ongoing conservation work due to complete in 2026) and their towns, and enjoy a scenic tour of the Borders.
STAY AT: Cloister House | Monteviot Stables West | Linen House
Thirlestane Castle
Tucked away in the hills of the Borders, stunning Thirlestane Castle is one of the oldest inhabited castles in Scotland. Originally constructed in the late 16th century, this magnificent castle has been home to the Maitland family ever since. Behind the rich sandstone exterior, the exquisite state rooms boast sublime 17th century plasterwork ceilings, stunning artworks and a vast collection of family portraits, as well as a rich history, hosting both Bonnie Prince Charlie and James VI of Scotland. Make sure to take a look in the School Room which has been turned into a Toy Museum showcasing a fascinating exhibition of Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian toys. Throughout the autumn and winter, you can explore the beautiful castle with a fascinating private tour, which must be booked in advance by enquiring through the Thirlestane Castle directly. Gain free entry to the castle with a Historic Houses membership.
STAY AT: The Earl and Countess | The Lauderdale | Glenburnie, all at Thirlestane Castle.
Mellerstain House
Set amidst 100 acres of landscaped parkland, formal gardens and lakeside walks, Mellerstain House is a splendid example of Georgian architecture, designed by Robert Adam. Marvel at fine art including paintings by Van Dyck and Gainsborough, period furniture, china and embroidery collections, taking time to admire the renowned library ceiling which has been preserved in the original colours. Be sure to keep an eye on the events page, musical performances from the Borders Music and Arts society are held from time to time in the elegant music room, while in the garden you can find the Borders Sculpture Park, an innovative venue showcasing contemporary outdoor sculptures by British artists. Gain free entry to the castle with a Historic Houses membership.
STAY AT: Tweedswood | Mill Dowrie | The Old Manse
Visiting over October half term?
If you’re travelling to the Borderlands over the school holidays with little ones in tow, we know how important it is to keep the fun flowing. From Halloween at Traquair House where you can meet and greet creepy crawlies, snakes, hear ghost stories in the woods, read Tarot cards, dress up and much more to pumpkin picking, spooky crafts and a cinema screening at Bowhill House and poison garden tours at The Alnwick Gardens, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained this October, on both sides of the border. Discover our fantastic family-friendly holiday homes over on our October half term availability page.
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