The Ancient and Royal Burgh of Selkirk stands high above the Ettrick and Yarrow Valleys between Hawick and Galashiels.
When he wasn't writing, Sir Walter Scott served as Sheriff here for 33 years. His former courtroom features a fascinating audio-visual presentation of Scott's associations with the area and its people and open features as part of 'Scott's Selkirk', the town's annual pre-Christmas festival. Here in Selkirk, William Wallace was proclaimed Overlord of Scotland within the walls of the Forest Kirk.
Selkirk is a centre, too, for glass, with a number of smaller glass workshops. The town's industrial background is reflected in the number of specialist tweed outlets and the local glass works offer the chance to see skilled craftsmen at work.
Lochcarron of Scotland have recently relocated from Galashiels to Selkirk and their new retail outlet and coffee shop is well worth a browse.
With the arrival of a new Baxters Retail outlet on the outskirts of the town and a stones throw from the main A7 road, is the perfect stop off for a tasty treat or to buy a special gift.
The beauty of the surrounding countryside and the area's rich heritage have proved excellent inspiration for such writers as Sir Walter Scott and James Hogg, the 'Ettrick Shepherd', an exhibition featuring his life and work is displayed in Bowhill. Bowhill House is three miles west of Selkirk, a Georgian mansion, set in extensive grounds, with beautiful woodland walks and an adventure playground. Its Little Theatre hosts drama and music performances.
Halliwell's House, the town's oldest dwelling, is now the local museum. It highlights the building's links with the ironmongery trade and the Robson Gallery provides a venue for exhibitions. Clapperton's Daylight Photographic Studio is a working museum and photographic archive.
Selkirk Common Riding, with over 400 riders taking part, is recognised as one of the oldest of the Border Festivals and dates from the Battle of Flodden in 1513.
The twin valleys of Ettrick and Yarrow contain some of the most glorious scenery in the Scottish Borders, with St. Mary's Loch, southern Scotland's largest stretch of water.
To search for events in Selkirk please click here
Nearest Visitor Information Centres are in Selkirk, Melrose or Hawick
Nearest Visitor Information Point located in The Library, Galashiels.
Information Service Tel: 01835 863170
Email: bordersinfo@visitscotland.com
Opening Times: Click Here
Another source of information on Selkirk and places of interest in the town and surrounding area is Selkirk town website, please note that accommodation within these sites may not be covered under the VisitScotand Quality Assurance Scheme.