Clifftop Castles, Hidden Harbours, and a Seabird Hike

Your 3-day road trip through the Scottish Borders starts in the historic city of Edinburgh, so why not spend a few days here first and check out the famous sights.

Begin your explorations with a bit of time travel at the dramatically perched Tantallon Castle over on the coast near North Berwick. 14th-century Tantallon is one of Scotland’s last remaining medieval castles, and it enjoys a commanding position up on the steep sandstone cliffs. Home to the Red Douglas dynasty, the castle saw plenty of turmoil through the centuries, before being besieged and abandoned during the English Civil War.
Check out the official website for prices and more information. Castle access is sometimes restricted due to conservation work, so do check ahead of your visit. You will still be able to explore the grounds, even if the building itself is closed.
Tantallon Castle Open Hours: April – September: 09:30 – 17:00 October – March: 10:00 – 16:00

Next up on the agenda is a hidden beach that’s so secret even some of the locals don’t know about it! Cove Harbour is a historic fishing harbour that was first used back in the 17th century and was once an thriving herring port. It’s a photogenic spot, with some quaint cottages and a pretty beach.
You'll find free parking at the top of the cliffs in the tiny hamlet of Cove. Enjoy a short walk down to the harbour, which is accessed by venturing through a tunnel in the red sandstone cliffs. The path is quite steep, so outdoor shoes are advisable. It takes around 10 minutes to reach the cove.

Continue along the scenic rural route and park at the St. Abbs Head car park, which is owned by National Trust Scotland. Members can park for free.
For more information and pricing, visit the official website. There is a small nature centre, café and toilets beside the car park.

From the car park, wander down to the charming fishing village of St. Abbs, known as one of Scotland’s prettiest harbours. Lobster and crab fishing is the bread and butter of many locals here, and the village feels like it’s changed little over the centuries. Used as a filming location for one of the “Avengers” movies and a backdrop for a Harry Styles music video, St. Abbs is a surprising little find. Stroll around the harbour, takes some photos, and enjoy the charm.
The walk down to the harbour is short but a little steep, so make sure you have sensible footwear.

Tuck into fresh crab sandwiches at Ebbcarrs Café on the harbour front and enjoy watching the boats bobbing up and down on the water. Make sure the seagulls don’t get too close, as they’re rather partial to crustaceans.

St. Abbs Head Nature Reserve is a striking coastal headland, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and famous for its nesting seabird colony. Enjoy a hike along the 4-mile circular trail that starts in St. Abbs and takes in sweeping sea views and the old lighthouse as well as the bird nesting sites. In spring, carpets of wildflowers add a pop of colour to the scene. You’ll also skirt around Mire Loch during the walk, which is a popular wildlife viewing spot.
To see the seabirds in all their glory, time your visit between April and August. The circular walk takes around 2 hours.
More information about St. Abbs Head can be found here.

The trail takes you right back to the car park, ready for you to continue with your adventure.

The next stop on your road trip is the historic seaside town of Eyemouth, where you can explore the streets and natural harbour at leisure. First, visit Gunsgreen House on the southern edge of the harbour. This solitary mansion was the local smuggling hub during the 18th century, with spirits, wine, and tobacco being the currency of the day. Formerly owned by merchant-turned-smuggler John Nisbet, today Gunsgreen House is a museum with everything from lavish rooms to hidden cellars to discover.
You can park for free beside the harbour or the church.
Book tickets here. Gunsgreen House Open Hours: Daily: 10:00 – 17:00

Head back outside and enjoy the harbour views - seals are sometimes spotted here, so keep an eye out. The town dates back to the 13th century with the harbour remaining busy with fishing boats to this day.

Walk down to Eyemouth Bay and enjoy the sensation of the waves crashing on the shore. It’s the perfect place for photos and ice-creams! Overlooking the beach is the sombre yet powerful “Widows and Bairns” sculpture, which commemorates the families devastated by what is known as Scotland’s worst fishing disaster which occurred in 1881.
Return to the harbour to collect your car.

Enjoy a scenic drive to the historic market town of Kelso and treat yourselves to a hearty feast at The Cobbles restaurant. Popular with locals and visitors alike, this friendly eatery offers traditional Scottish and European cuisine with a creative local twist.
Free street parking is available throughout the town. Visit the restaurant website to see the menu and call 01573 223548 to book a table.
The Cobbles Open Hours: Wednesday - Sunday: last orders 21:00 Monday - Tuesday: closed

It's time to check into your guest house for a well-earned rest after the busy day. Inglestone House is a Grade B listed Georgian property in the heart of Kelso, with heaps of character and a long and intriguing history.
There is free parking outside the guesthouse on Abbey Row.