Base for an uplifting Borders break

the short drive into Peebles. There is a nice walk to be had along the banks of the River Tweed, just a stone’s throw from the town centre.

The high street boasts a good selection of independent shops that don’t just cater for the tourist market.

We loved taking a look around Woodworks, a real throwback of a shop selling handmade wooden toys and gifts, with restoration work and commissions done on-site. Around the corner is a small museum dedicated to the life of The 39 Steps author, John Buchan.

Just off the high street is the famous chocolate and pastry school run by the UK world chocolate master, Ruth Hinks, which is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth.

And then there’s the bustling Eastgate Theatre, which has a busy schedule of live entertainment and touring acts.

There is so much more to ▼ Main pic, Peebles, looking towards the Tweed Bridge; from left, Cringletie House, the hotel’s Melrose suite, and Neidpath Castle. do in the area, whether it is something energetic like Go Ape and the biking trails of 7Stanes at Glentress Forest or historic sites like the four abbeys of Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh.

Of course, with Edinburgh only a short drive away there’s the chance to explore the city, too.

Cringletie has a number of specialist packages available depending on your interests, including a fishing expedition, golf break, an Outlander special, hen and stag party offerings, as well as wedding and honeymoon options.

Whether you are looking to get away from it all for a couple of days, wish to explore the treasures of the Borders or are looking for a picturesque base outside of the capital, Cringletie House is the ideal location for a short stay.

THIRLESTANE CASTLE

One of our oldest and finest inhabited castles, this Lauder attraction offers woodland walks, playground and a rose garden.

TRAQUAIR HOUSE

The centrepiece is the historyladen house, but there’s also a brewery, restaurant, huge maze, craft workshops and walks.

SCOTTISH BORDERS DONKEY SANCTUARY

Set just outside St Boswells, there are tours to meet the donkeys, llamas, goats, pigs and wildfowl.

MARY, QUEEN OF SCOTS VISITOR CENTRE

Mary’s life and connections with the town are explored in a 16th Century Jedburgh towerhouse.

FLOORS CASTLE

Built for the Duke of Roxburghe in 1721, this Kelso landmark has walled gardens, an adventure playground and two cafes.

BORN IN THE BORDERS

Go grass sledging, see the ospreys, visit the brewery and check out the visitor centre at this Jedburgh establishment.