Bell tent camping near Kelso

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders, just a stone’s throw from the Scotland-England border, Kelso is a vibrant town set picturesquely at the meeting of the Tweed and Teviot Rivers. As is typical of border towns, Kelso is steeped in dramatic history, much of it centred around the now-ruined, though once powerful, Roxburgh Castle where James II met his fate. Today, the grand, and still inhabited, Floors Castle is the main attraction and is worth a visit to explore the fine art collection and wander the grounds’ woodland, riverside trail and Victorian walled garden or let the children play in the enclosed adventure playground. 

A 20-minute drive southwest of Kelso, Jebdurgh is another historic border town that’s worth a visit for its picturesque town centre and association with Mary Queen of Scots. Just outside of the town, the small Jedburgh Camping and Caravanning Club Site has pitches for tents, caravans and campervans.

The Scottish Borders is a great region to visit all year-round: unlike better-known destinations, such as Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye, it rarely suffers from crowds in the summer months. It also doesn’t experience as harsh climates as more northerly parts of the country. July and August are ideal for enjoying long days and (hopefully) sunny weather. This is also the time of the Common Ridings, which take place in several border towns. 

• If you choose to wild camp, be sure to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Note that while wild camping is permitted in Scotland, it is illegal just over the border in England.
• While you can get around by using public buses, having your own transport offers more flexibility. The closest train station is Tweedbank, which is a 45-minute bus journey away.
• There are a few small supermarkets in Kelso where you will find the essentials. For bigger purchases, head for Tweedbank.