Kelso Attractions
The attractive market town of Kelso (pop. 6,100) 10mi/16km east of Melrose was described by Scott as the "prettiest, if not the most romantic village in Scotland". The main roads converge on the Georgian market square where every night a tattoo is sounded at the courthouse. The five-arched bridge over the Tweed was built in 1803 by John Rennie and it offers a fine view of the ruined abbey. In September, farmers from far and wide gather for the famous Ram Market.
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Abbey
Founded by monks from Picardy, the Norman style Kelso Abbey dates back to the 12th century. The Abbey was destroyed and what remains is a well-preserved sandstone tower.
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Floors Castle
A charming Georgian style castle offering a scenic view over the Tweed, Floors Castle dates back to 1721. The Castle serves as the residence for the Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe.
Smailholm Tower
Smailholm Tower is located near Kelso. It is a simple tower house displaying a collection of costume figures and tapestries relating to Sir Walter Scott.
Hours
April 1 to September 30
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open | 9:30 | 9:30 | 9:30 | 9:30 | 9:30 | 9:30 | 9:30 |
| Close | 17:30 | 17:30 | 17:30 | 17:30 | 17:30 | 17:30 | 17:30 |
October 1 to March 31
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open | Closed | Closed | Closed | Closed | Closed | 9:30 | 9:30 |
| Close | 16:30 | 16:30 |
Parking
Free
Facilities
Gift shop
Restaurant or food service
Restaurant or food service
Turret House
Turret House by Abbey Court is one of Kelso's oldest buildings. It houses a small museum on the history of Kelso.
Facilities
On-site accomodations