Windlestraw – Walkerburn, Peeblesshire
The name alone piques your interest, and once found, nothing at this delightful Tweed Valley bolthole dampens it. If you love the outdoor life, but also returning each day to a place that manages to be both chic and convivial, then head for the Scottish Borders and this Edwardian country house, with lovely interiors, where absolute peace and tranquility are guaranteed. Hidden in a sheltered garden, with views over the River Tweed and the hills beyond, Windlestraw is now owned by John and Sylvia Matthews, who have created a six-bedroom haven for their guests, with the added pleasure of highly accomplished, locally sourced food. The contemporary country-house bedrooms are cosseting, some with a chaise longue, perfect for lounging, all with gorgeous, spotless bathrooms. Chat with fellow guests, play the grand piano, admire the original features of the house, warm yourself by the fires, take tea on the suntrap terrace or walk from the door into the beautiful countryside. Heaven. Doubles from £175.
tip
Name to Know: Owner, Sylvia, who is passionate about the Scottish Borders. Ask her where to visit, be it walks, gardens or abbeys.
See: Visit Abbotsford, home of Sir Walter Scott, author of Ivanhoe and Rob Roy.
Eat: Journey to the hotel dining room for its delicious menu that changes daily and offers Scottish Borders produce.
Buy: Treat yourself to a morning of fly fishing on the famous River Tweed just a few hundred yards from the hotel’s front door.
Want to find out more? Visit the hotel's website.
Back to all Great British Hotels
