THE SOUTH OF SCOTLAND
This is where it all starts
Head east from Ireland or north from England and this magical part of the country is the one that gives you the first taste of Caledonian culture, charm and so much more. Made up of Dumfries & Galloway in the west and the Scottish Borders in the east the region’s history has clearly been defined by its geographical positioning. It’s a place that has been fought over so many times over the centuries. Here you can still discover the treasures of marauding Vikings and the remains of our earliest Christian community; as well as the sites of battles fought by great kings, to the remnants of
Border Reiver strongholds and once imposing abbeys.
So, yes, Scotland does indeed start in the South. As do many of the defining stories and events that shaped the nation. Our love of crafts, of song and literature was forged in the rolling hills and dramatic coastline of the south. And it’s all very, very close. You’ll be pleasantly
surprised by what’s on the doorstep of Glasgow, Edinburgh, as well as our southern neighbours, Carlisle and Newcastle. Its proximity makes it a go-to destination for those in search of accessible remoteness, with diverse scenery that reveals new experiences at every turn. It’s no surprise that the legendary affinity that visitors feel for Scotland, starts, well, right here.
A cultural centre
If the appeal of the south is starting to have a beguiling effect on you, then we have an upcoming bumper bunch of events that might just win you over completely. So where shall we start? How about the opening of the Great Tapestry Centre in Galashiels? A stunning new building that houses an incredible hand-stitched history of Scotland. Made by over 1,000 talented contributors and using over 300 miles of wool, this unique exhibit shows rather beautifully how our heritage and culture have weaved their way – literally, of course – through the ages. Staying on a cultural theme, there will be a range of exhibitions, readings, talks and much more taking place to commemorate the life and works of Sir Walter Scott in the 250th anniversary of his birth. We’d certainly suggest a visit to Abbotsford, his sprawling baronial home that had him on the brink of bankruptcy!
Pedal power
Of course, if you’re after something to set the heart racing then there is a plethora of cycling events