Scotland self catering rental accommodation

The Cottage at Fairnilee
near Selkirk
Selkirkshire

Betten 4

Standing above the River Tweed, on the extensive Fairnilee Estate near the historic Borders town of Selkirk (all facilities), the Cottage once housed the Estate laundry. Set among the trees and shrubs, it is part of a little cluster of buildings and backs on to the erstwhile stable yard. All on one level, with parking right at the door, inside it is most cosily and attractively appointed. A wood-burning stove in the sitting room runs the central heating, and there are two elegant double bedrooms, one with a canopy bed. During renovations to the 'Big House' up the hill, its present occupant, an American lady, stayed in the Cottage and installed a new kitchen there to her own very high standards, which tenants may now enjoy.

Tenants are free to wander at will on the Estate, which is crossed by the Southern Upland Way, so walkers can step out straight from the cottage door. Fishing and shooting in season can be organized by the Estate. The stretch of the Tweed below the cottage is also prime water for kayaking. There is riding 5 miles away at Ashkirk, where there is an excellent golf course. Selkirk, Galashiels (5m) and Peebles (18m) also have good courses. Galashiels and Selkirk both have swimming pools. Mountain bikers can try their skill on the purpose built trails around Innerleithen (11m) or in the Craik Forest beyond Hawick, while sailors and wind-surfers will make for St Mary's Loch (20m), lonely and serene among the hills.

The lovely and peaceful countryside round about is scattered with stately homes, keeps, castles and ruined abbeys, most of which are open to the public and all of which are of interest. In just over an hour you can be in Edinburgh (you can catch the hourly bus from Galashiels if you'd rather not face the city in the car) and in scarcely longer can be on the sandy beach at Coldingham, or walking the walls of Berwick on Tweed on the English border.

With regard to eating, drinking and shopping, you are spoiled for choice again. Galashiels and Selkirk both have supermarkets of varying sizes. Selkirk has a wonderful deli which also does light lunches. The pretty town of Melrose, nestling under the Eildon Hills, has several excellent restaurants. In short, a stay at the Cottage at Fairnilee will provide you with plenty of refreshment for body, mind and soul!

Bed linen and towels and electricity are included. The heating is run from the wood-burning stove, for which fuel is included. Sorry, no pets or smoking within the cottage.