Exploring Scotland by car offers a unique way to experience the beauty and history of this remarkable land. The Scottish Borders in particular present an array of stunning landscapes, historic castles, and charming towns that can make for an unforgettable road trip. This article will guide you through some of the most scenic routes for a road trip through the Scottish Borders, providing a blend of nature and heritage that is sure to captivate every traveler.
The Great Historic Route
For those of you who are history buffs, the Great Historic Route offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and historical significance. Starting from Edinburgh, this route takes you through landscapes dotted with castles, ancient ruins, and historic monuments.
When you begin your journey in Edinburgh, take some time to explore the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Edinburgh Castle, standing majestically atop Castle Rock, is a must-visit before you hit the road. As you drive out of the city, you’ll find yourself enveloped by rolling hills and lush green valleys, characteristic of the Scottish Borders.
One of the first stops on this route is Rosslyn Chapel, a 15th-century chapel famously featured in "The Da Vinci Code." The intricate carvings and mysterious air make it a fascinating stop. Continuing south, the Borders Historic Route will lead you through charming towns like Peebles and Galashiels, where you can take a break and enjoy local delicacies.
Another highlight of this route is Jedburgh Abbey, a stunning example of medieval architecture. The abbey’s ruins provide a glimpse into Scotland’s tumultuous past, and the surrounding gardens offer a peaceful spot to relax. As you continue your drive, you’ll pass through Kelso, home to the magnificent Floors Castle, the largest inhabited castle in Scotland.
The driving distance on this route is approximately 90 miles, with a driving time of around 2 hours without stops. However, we recommend taking your time to fully appreciate the history and scenery along the way.
The Coastal Route
If you’re drawn to the sea, Scotland’s Coastal Route will not disappoint. This route takes you along the rugged east coast, offering stunning views of the North Sea and charming coastal villages. Starting from Edinburgh, head east towards North Berwick, a picturesque seaside town known for its beautiful beaches and the iconic Bass Rock.
From North Berwick, follow the A1 towards Dunbar. This stretch of road offers breathtaking views of the coastline and ample opportunities to stop and explore. Dunbar itself is a lovely town with a rich maritime history and the ruins of Dunbar Castle, perched dramatically on the cliffs.
Continuing south, you’ll pass through the John Muir Country Park, a nature reserve named after the famous naturalist. This area offers beautiful walking trails and stunning views of the coastline. Further along the route, you’ll come to St Abb’s Head, a hotspot for birdwatchers and a fantastic location for a coastal walk.
The Coastal Route also includes the charming fishing village of Eyemouth. Here you can enjoy fresh seafood, visit the historic harbor, and learn about the town’s smuggling history at the Eyemouth Museum.
As you drive towards the Scottish Borders, the scenery continues to impress with dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and quaint villages. The total distance of this route is about 80 miles, with a driving time of approximately 2 hours. However, with so much to see and do, you’ll want to take your time and enjoy the journey.
The North Coast Route
The North Coast Route, also known as the North Coast 500, is often regarded as one of Scotland’s most scenic road trips. While the full route takes you around the northern tip of Scotland, the section through the Scottish Borders is equally spectacular.
Starting your journey from Inverness, drive south towards Fort William. This route takes you through some of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes, including the famous Loch Ness. Be sure to stop and take in the views, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the legendary Loch Ness Monster.
As you continue south, you’ll pass through the stunning Glencoe Valley, known for its rugged beauty and historical significance. This area is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of trails to explore.
From Glencoe, head towards Oban, a bustling port town known as the "Gateway to the Isles." Here you can take a ferry to the Isle of Skye, one of Scotland’s most famous and scenic islands. Skye is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including the Cuillin Mountains and the stunning Fairy Pools.
The driving distance for this section of the North Coast Route is approximately 200 miles, with a driving time of around 5 hours. However, with so many incredible sights along the way, it’s worth taking your time and enjoying the journey.
The South West Route
For those of you looking to explore the south west of Scotland, the South West Route offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and coastal scenery. Starting from Glasgow, this route takes you through the heart of the Scottish Borders and along the stunning south west coast.
Your journey begins in Glasgow, a vibrant city known for its rich industrial heritage and impressive architecture. From Glasgow, head south towards Ayr, a charming coastal town with a rich history and beautiful beaches.
As you continue along the coast, you’ll pass through Culzean Castle and Country Park, one of Scotland’s most impressive castles. The castle’s dramatic clifftop location offers stunning views of the Ayrshire coast, and the surrounding parkland is perfect for a leisurely walk.
Further along the route, you’ll come to Galloway Forest Park, a vast wilderness area known for its dark skies and abundant wildlife. This area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore.
The South West Route also includes the historic town of Dumfries, known for its connections to the famous Scottish poet Robert Burns. Here you can visit the Robert Burns Centre and explore the town’s charming streets and historic buildings.
The total distance of this route is around 150 miles, with a driving time of approximately 3 hours. However, with so much to see and do, you’ll want to take your time and enjoy the journey.
The Borders Historic Route
Last but certainly not least, the Borders Historic Route offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Starting from Carlisle, this route takes you through the heart of the Scottish Borders, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the region’s rich history and beautiful scenery.
From Carlisle, head north towards Hawick, a charming town known for its rich textile heritage. Here you can visit the Borders Textile Towerhouse and learn about the town’s history and its connections to the textile industry.
As you continue your journey, you’ll pass through towns like Selkirk and Melrose, each with their own unique charm and history. Melrose is home to the magnificent Melrose Abbey, a stunning example of medieval architecture and one of the most important historical sites in the Scottish Borders.
Further along the route, you’ll come to the town of Kelso, home to the impressive Floors Castle. This grand castle is the largest inhabited castle in Scotland and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The Borders Historic Route also includes the town of Jedburgh, known for its impressive abbey and rich history. Here you can visit the Jedburgh Abbey and explore the town’s charming streets and historic buildings.
The total distance of this route is around 90 miles, with a driving time of approximately 2 hours. However, with so much to see and do, you’ll want to take your time and enjoy the journey.
The Scottish Borders offer some of the most scenic and historically rich routes for a road trip. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic coastline, the rolling hills and valleys, or the rich history and culture of the region, there is a route that will captivate and inspire you. By taking the time to explore these routes, you can experience the best of what the Scottish Borders have to offer, creating memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Scotland.