The Royal and Ancient Burgh of Selkirk stands high above the beautiful Ettrick and Yarrow Valleys. The town has many famous historical associations including explorer Mungo Park, James Hogg “The Ettrick Shepherd” and Sir Walter Scott who served as Sheriff here for 33 years, his original courtroom still takes pride of place in the Market Place. The people of Selkirk are known as Souters (meaning cobblers) because of the town’s history as shoe makers and Halliwells House, the town’s oldest dwelling is now a fascinating museum. And be sure to sample some Selkirk Bannock, a delicious spiced fruit loaf available in local bakers shops. Three miles west of Selkirk is Bowhill, a magnificent Georgian House set in extensive grounds famous for its art collection, Little Theatre and woodland walks. The area has some of the most glorious scenery in the Scottish Borders including St Marys Loch, southern Scotland’s largest stretch of water.