2025 Scottish Borders Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

#hellohalloween Stouslie Farm in Hawick is a gorgeous spot for pumpkin picking — surrounded by rolling countryside and full of that cosy, autumn atmosphere that makes the season feel special. The patch itself is well set out, with rows of bright orange pumpkins in every size, from tiny decorative ones to big, bumpy carving pumpkins. We loved how relaxed and friendly it felt — no rush, no crowds, just families enjoying the fresh air and the fun of finding the perfect pumpkin. There are great photo spots too, with hay bales, farm scenery, and those stunning Borders views in the background. There is a Halloween trail set up for families to follow around in a loop - taking turns to try out the straw pen (think of big piles of soft straw under a roof where kids can launch themselves into the hay), archery, climbing a hay mountain and the hay bale obstacle course (and much more)! On the way round, you watch for boards with hidden letters and write down each letter you see so you can un-scramble them at the end to make a secret phrase. It’s a lovely mix of local charm and seasonal excitement — the kind of place that makes pumpkin picking feel like a proper autumn tradition. #hawick #scottishborders

#hellohalloween The Barn at Newmill is one of those places that captures everything you want from a countryside day out — animals, pumpkins, hay bales, and plenty of happy kids running around. It’s a working farm that’s been transformed into a family-friendly attraction, full of charm and photo opportunities everywhere you look. We met so many animals during our visit — sheep, pigs, goats, chickens, and a few very friendly donkeys who loved the attention. Inside, there’s a covered pumpkin patch that’s perfect for wet days and packed with colourful pumpkins that make amazing photo spots. Also inside, the hay bale mountain and hay bale maze kept the kids busy for ages — climbing, exploring, and smiling nonstop. There are mini tractors to ride, and even real vintage farm vehicles you can sit on for photos — a lovely touch that adds to the rustic atmosphere. When it’s time for a break, the food trucks are fantastic, serving up everything from wood-fired pizza to local ice cream. There are hay bale benches everywhere so you can grab a seat! It’s the kind of place that feels genuinely welcoming — family-run, creative, and full of small details that make it memorable. Whether you’re there for pumpkins, animals, or just a taste of farm life, The Barn at Newmill is a brilliant day out for all ages. #scotland

#hellohalloween One of the highlights of Clackmae Farm’s Halloween event has to be the hay bale mountain — a towering stack of straw bales that kids can climb, jump, and explore to their hearts’ content! It’s not just for climbing, either — there are slides built into the sides, a trampoline at the base, and even hidden tunnels running through the middle for adventurous explorers to crawl through. The views from the top are brilliant, and little ones love the thrill of making it all the way up. It’s the kind of simple, rustic fun that keeps children busy for ages — fresh air, open space, and plenty of laughter. A perfect mix of farmyard play and Halloween excitement, with pumpkins, friendly staff, and a beautiful countryside backdrop. 📍 Clackmae Farm, Earlston, Scottish Borders 🎃 Open seasonally for Halloween and pumpkin picking #scotland #clackmae #scottishborders

#hellohalloween Clackmae Farm is everything you want from a family pumpkin-picking day — relaxed, scenic, and full of autumn charm. Set among the rolling countryside near Earlston, the patch is surrounded by fields and trees - the perfect backdrop for a very spooktacular morning exploring a haunted maze, hunting for clues in a pumpkin patch and climbing a mountain made of hay! We spent the morning wandering through rows of colourful pumpkins of every shape and size, with wheelbarrows for the kids to fill and plenty of space to run around. There’s no rush or crowding — just a really welcoming, local feel. After choosing our pumpkins, we stopped for a snack and admired the views and the kids raced to the hay bale mountain to climb, slide and jump away their energy — the kind of simple, happy outing that makes autumn feel magical. It’s an easy drive, family-friendly, and a lovely way to spend a beautiful morning outdoors. If you’re in the Borders in October, Clackmae Farm is a must-visit for a little seasonal joy. #scotland #clackmae #scottishborders

#hellohalloween Elibank Castle might be a ruin, but it’s the kind of place that sparks your imagination instantly. Tucked away in the hills near Walkerburn, it’s quiet, atmospheric, and full of stories. The views over the valley are incredible — you can really picture what life must have been like here centuries ago. It’s not a manicured tourist site (and that’s part of the charm). You’ll walk through woodland and grassy paths to reach it, or you may climb a brashy bank to make it up... and when you do, the stone walls rise up beautifully against the skyline. It’s a short, peaceful stop if you’re exploring the Borders, and ideal for kids who love castles and adventure — no crowds, no fuss, just pure history and nature. We have been twice now - and both times we have had the entire place to ourselves. The top part is closed now, with a heavy metal gate blocking access to go inside. This is for safety reasons. You can go into the bottom level - bring a torch! 📍 Location: Walkerburn EH43 6DA Perfect little detour for a sunny day or a quiet family walk. #elibankcastle #scottishcastle #scottishborders

#hellohalloween There’s something extra magical about Halloween at Bowhill House in the Scottish Borders. The grand estate transforms into a world of juicy pumpkins ready for picking, rustling leaves, and ghostly giggles echoing through the trees. The spooky Halloween trail is designed with families in mind... it is simple and manageable for all ages and takes kids through the adventure playground! Very exciting! Families can wander the trails together, spotting coffins, spiders, and the occasional mischievous “ghost” hiding in the trees. Whether you’re here for trick-or-treat trails or twilight walks by the loch, Bowhill is the ultimate autumn adventure! 📍Location: Bowhill House, Selkirk, Scotland #HelloHalloween #BowhillHouse #ScottishBorders #FamilyTravel

Tucked away right in the centre of Peebles, Cross Kirk is one of those quiet historic gems that’s easy to miss but absolutely worth stopping for. The ruins sit in a peaceful grassy area not too far from Tesco and the Old Town, surrounded by trees and the sound of birds, giving it a calm, almost other-worldly atmosphere. You can still make out the shape of the medieval church, with its arched stonework and sturdy walls that have somehow stood through centuries of Scottish weather. There are no barriers or ticket booths (not within the initial fence that encloses the Kirk) — just open space, history, and imagination. It’s the kind of place where kids can explore freely while adults take in the sense of time and solitude. There isn’t much in the way of signage or facilities, so it’s best to read a little about its background before visiting (it dates back to the 13th century and was rebuilt after relics were found on the site). But that’s part of its charm — it feels raw and untouched. You can spot a sign on the fence before you enter, and one on the temporary fence around the tower, but the Historic Scotland app will be your best source of information. Perfect for a short wander, quiet reflection, or a few moody photos if the light’s right. Combine it with a walk along the nearby river or into Peebles town for a lovely local outing. #peebles #scotland #scottishborders

It is a very basic playground, built to serve a very small town. There is a climbing frame, which smaller kids usually struggle with as the steps to they slide are quite far apart and hard to reach. The other way across is through a metal bridge with a triangular frame. It is also difficult for smaller kids to manage safely. There are 4 swings and one larger rope swing thing. Two of the swings are designed with safety bars so smaller kids can use them. They are old and usually splatted with bird poo. It is functional, but I don't think SBC bother with any type of upkeep besides moving the bench every now and then. #familytravel #travel #scotland