Steeped in history, this Border town is surrounded by opportunities for adventure.
Just minutes from the border with England, Jedburgh is steeped in all of the dramatic history that that frontier has wrought over the years. Visitors with a taste for history can discover the tragic story of Mary Queen of Scots at her former home; wander through the intriguing ancient wynds (alleys) of the well-preserved town centre, and take a stroll around the grounds of the 12th-century Jedburgh Abbey and admire its fascinating artefacts. Nearby, Ale Water Valley offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling, horse riding and golf.
The St Cuthbert's Way 62-mile (100-kilometre) long-distance trail passes through Jedburgh on its way from Melrose to Lindisfarne (Holy Island) off the coast of Northumberland, England. Long-distance walkers and others wanting to spend the night in Jedburgh can set up camp at the small Jedburgh Camping and Caravanning Club Site. Just outside town, it has pitches for tents and tourers.
A 10-minute drive north of Jedburgh, the small village of Ancrum is set by the Ale River and enjoys a peaceful, rural setting. Just north of the village, and surrounded by countryside, Lilliardsedge Holiday Park and Golf Course has pitches for tents and tourers, as well as its own nine-hole golf course.
Fifteen minutes west of Jedburgh, Hawick is primarily known for its rich textile heritage, particularly knitwear and cashmere, and for its annual spectacle of horsemanship, the Common Ridings. Midway between Hawick and Jedburgh, Wild Woods Camping Ruberslaw offers a variety of tent pitches, including pitches inside the site’s attractive walled garden.
With its mild climate, Jedburgh and the surrounding Scottish Borders region is a year-round destination, but best experienced in the summer when the sun is (with luck) shining and the calendar is filled with activities, including the Common Ridings, which take place in various towns over the summer period. Bear in mind that July and August, when the Scottish schools are on holiday, is peak tourist season so booking sites in advance is recommended.