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THE BSPC PROPERTY GUIDE / WWW.BSPC.CO.UK
FOCUS ON THE KELSO AREA Beverley Brown highlights the many lifestyle attractions on offer in and around Kelso and Jedburgh
Overlooking Kelso from the Millenium Viewpoint
Lying in a fertile valley between the Lammermuir Hills and the Cheviots, only a few miles from the English border, Kelso is a historic town with more than its fair share of ancient monuments alluding to past centuries when the town, like many others in the region, was involved in Border wars and skirmishes. The 18th century cobbled market square, once the main hub of activity for what continues to be a largely agricultural community, is now a conservation area and starting point for the Town Trail, which gives a fascinating insight into local buildings of historic and architectural interest, including the Town Hall, which stands on the site of the old Tolbooth, and the Cross Keys Hotel, a former coaching inn built in 1761.
The diversity of architecture in this part of the Borders is a major attraction. On the outskirts of Kelso is the magnificent 18 th century Floors Castle. Designed by William Adam in 1721, it’s Scotland’s largest inhabited house and the ancestral home of the Duke of Roxburghe. Other outstanding buildings include Mellerstain House, a Georgian stately home to the north of the town designed by William and Robert Adam which is open to the public; the well preserved 15th century Smailholm Tower; and the remains of the 12th century Kelso Abbey. Modern Kelso is an attractive place to live; Sir Walter Scott once described it as ‘the most beautiful if not the most romantic village in Scotland’.
While no longer a village, Kelso has retained its appearance along with its character and cultural heritage. Here, the local property market spans everything from modern flats, luxury apartments and one-off houses, to traditional flats and terraced styles, picturesque rural cottages and larger stone-built houses from the Georgian and Victorian eras. In addition to its mix of house styles to suit all age groups and prices ranges, Kelso has an outstanding range of facilities and amenities, including primary and secondary schools, shops, restaurants, sports facilities – including a 25-metre swimming pool - and clubs for everything from gliding and curling to arts and bridge.