The charming village of Gattonside lies just across the Tweed from the historic town of Melrose, some 35 miles south of Edinburgh in the midst of the beautiful Border country so beloved of Sir Walter Scott.
Winding lanes leading down to the river and a chain footbridge which links Gattonside with the town, just a short stroll away. Tucked away along one such lane is Hollybank Barn, a magnificent conversion of an old steading in the grounds of Hollybank House.
On the ground floor is a very spacious and beautifully appointed kitchen/dining room and a comfortable sitting room, both of which have French doors on to a patio. There is also a large utility/boot room and shower room. Upstairs are two bright and airy bedrooms (each a with a French door and Juliet balcony), a family bathroom and a lovely bright sitting area. Outside, there is a patio, garden area (furniture) and ample parking.
Melrose is renowned, not just for its famous ruined abbey and the legendary Eildon Hills which dominate the town, but for excellent eating places and interesting shops. However, you don't even have to go that far for a meal out, as Gattonside itself boasts two prestigious restaurants, both within a few minutes walk of the cottage.
Walkers will find themselves within half a mile of the Southern Upland Way, while St Cuthbert's Way starts in Melrose and heads for Lindisfarne. Anglers have the Tweed practically on the doorstep and there are plenty of stocked lochs nearby. Melrose has an excellent 9-hole golf course on the shoulder of the Eildon Hills, one of many excellent courses in the area. There are tennis courts in the park at Melrose, riding about 4 miles away at Cowdenknowes and, of course, this is the heart of rugby country, with the Greenyards at Melrose being the home of the rugby Sevens game.
For less active days, there is a wealth of stately homes, ruined abbeys, historic castles and peel towers to visit - the nearest is probably Scott's own home of Abbotsford, just four miles distant - as well as some lovely gardens. The beaches of East Lothian, Berwickshire and Northumberland are within an hour's drive. And if you wish to visit Edinburgh, you could take advantage of the frequent bus service and leave the car at home.
Heating is by gas CH (INCLUDED) and a living flame fire in the sitting room. Bed linen and towels are INCLUDED. Sorry, no pets and smoking is not permitted within the cottage.
