Stays in Kelso
Kelso is a market town in the Scottish Borders, set where the River Tweed meets the Teviot. It grew up around Kelso Abbey, founded in the 12th century, and the town retains a planned layout with a large cobbled square, the Cross, at its heart. The abbey ruins and the nearby Floors Castle, the seat…
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About Kelso
Historically, Kelso was an important market and textile town, and its position near the border with England shaped its past. Today it serves as a base for exploring the surrounding countryside, with walking, fishing and cycling among the activities on offer. The town has a range of independent shops, cafés and hotels, and hosts events such as the Kelso Civic Week and the Border Union Show.
Visitors can reach Kelso by road from Edinburgh, Newcastle upon Tyne and Carlisle. The town itself is compact and walkable, while the wider area is best explored by car or bicycle.
Where to stay in Kelso
Kelso town centre. The area around the Cross and the abbey offers easy access to shops, restaurants and public transport, with several hotels including the Cross Keys Hotel Kelso and Ednam House Hotel.
Ednam. A village just north of Kelso, home to the SCHLOSS Roxburghe, which sits in extensive grounds.
Heiton. A small village south-east of Kelso, convenient for exploring the Teviot valley and nearby attractions.
Getting there and around
Kelso lies in the Scottish Borders, about 50 miles south-east of Edinburgh and 70 miles north of Newcastle upon Tyne. The nearest railway stations are Tweedbank, Berwick-upon-Tweed and Carlisle, all with bus connections to Kelso. By car, the town is reached via the A68, A697 and A698. Buses link Kelso with Jedburgh, Hawick, Galashiels and Berwick-upon-Tweed. Once in Kelso, the town centre is compact and walkable; a car or bicycle is useful for exploring the surrounding Borders countryside.
When to go
The best time to visit Kelso is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and the surrounding countryside is at its most accessible. Summer months bring events such as the Kelso Civic Week and the Border Union Show. Winter can be cold and wet, with shorter daylight hours, but the town remains open for visitors.
Questions, answered
What is Kelso known for?
Kelso is known for its abbey ruins, its cobbled square and its proximity to Floors Castle. It is also a traditional market town in the Scottish Borders.
How do I get to Kelso?
Kelso is reached by road via the A68, A697 and A698, with bus connections from Berwick-upon-Tweed, Jedburgh, Hawick and Galashiels. The nearest railway stations are at Tweedbank, Berwick-upon-Tweed and Carlisle.
What is there to do in Kelso?
Visitors can explore Kelso Abbey, walk along the River Tweed and Teviot, visit Floors Castle and its grounds, and enjoy the town's shops and cafés. The surrounding area offers walking, cycling and fishing.
Is Kelso in Scotland or England?
Kelso is in Scotland, in the Scottish Borders region. It lies close to the border with England.
What events take place in Kelso?
Kelso hosts the Kelso Civic Week and the Border Union Show, among other local events. Dates vary from year to year.