Tweed Valley by Rail & Bus
Explore a three-day circular from Edinburgh to the Tweed Valley packed with history and culture, outdoor adventure and heaps of local flavour
Arriving in the Scottish Borders by train and exploring the Tweed Valley’s many attractions by bus, by bike and on foot couldn’t be easier. It’s a great way to take in all that this beautiful corner of Scotland has to offer – and one of the most sustainable ways to travel.
In under an hour, the Borders Railway connects visitors from the capital with the old textile town of Galashiels. It’s a bus journey from here to Innerleithen on the banks of the River Tweed, home to Scotland’s oldest inhabited house and an independent High Street packed with characterful shops, pubs and cafes. Mountain biking and walking adventures await here and at nearby Glentress Forest, and there are castles, museums and chocolate delights aplenty in the historic town of Peebles, just a short ride – or pedal – away.
Buses from Peebles to Edinburgh will return visitors (and their bikes!) safely back to the city at the end of this inspiring short break in the Scottish Borders.
Day One: Edinburgh to Innerleithen
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It’s only fitting that our three-day adventure in the Scottish Borders begins with a visit to the award-winning Great Tapestry of Scotland in Galashiels, where 160 intricately stitched panels bring the nation’s story to life – and the region’s long association with the textiles industry is celebrated.
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Take a bus from Galashiels to Innerleithen to discover a town rich in character and beauty. Follow the Innerleithen History Trail to uncover fascinating sites including the remains of an Iron Age hill fort, now adorned with seven stone cairns featuring carved slabs depicting the history and heritage of the area.
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Get your hands inky at Robert Smail’s Printing Works, a living, breathing museum and letterpress printing house managed by the National Trust for Scotland. Join a guided tour or sign up to one of the museum’s creative workshops to discover traditional printing techniques and much, much more.
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Before leaving Innerleithen, always pay a visit to FINDRA, a destination store specialising in stylish, sustainable, outdoor wear inspired by the local landscapes. Enjoy a light bite or coffee and cake while you deliberate over the season’s essential purchases – from shorts and beanies to base layers for all weathers.
Day Two: Innerleithen to Peebles
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Start the day with a scenic stroll or pedal to spectacular Traquair, Scotland’s oldest inhabited house. Famous for its royal and literary connections, the former hunting lodge houses an array of historical treasures, while the grounds are home to beautiful walled gardens, a brewery and an enchanting maze. Look out for the peacocks!
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A short bus journey from Innerleithen, Glentress Forest was put firmly on the map when it hosted the UCI Cycling World Champs in 2023. Bring your own bike (or hire one at the trailhead) to explore the extensive trail network for yourself, or enjoy a waymarked walk through the forest – or breathtaking tree-top challenge.
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Next stop: the historic town of Peebles with its idylic, riverside setting. A stone’s throw from Tweed Bridge, coffee shop-cum-pastry school, Cocoa Black – home to UK World Chocolate Master, Ruth Hinks – is a showcase for luxury gateaux and stylish, chocolate delights. The perfect pit stop for all post-activity treats.
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When the evenings draw in, the Eastgate Theatre bursts into life. Look out for the venue’s year-round programme of events covering everything from music and drama, dance, comedy, and family shows to blockbuster films and independent cinema. If lucky, there may even be a festival in full flow when you visit.
Day Three: Peebles to Edinburgh
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From riverside rambles to big days in the hills, there are no shortage of walking routes in and around Peebles. But for a true flavour of the Tweed Valley, the Neidpath to Lyne circuit is an absolute classic. It passes beneath Neidpath Castle – perched dramatically above the river – and the Insta-friendly Neidpath Viaduct en route.
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No tour would be complete without a visit to the museum that celebrates the valley’s most famous literary son. The John Buchan Story explores the remarkable life of the prolific writer who penned The 39 Steps, and features signed first editions of Buchan’s novels, along with other personal letters and artefacts.
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Housed in one of Peebles’ most historic buildings, Coltman’s Kitchen, Deli & Bar serves up imaginative, freshly-prepared food in its laid-back restaurant – ideal for a lazy lunch at the end of your travels. The outside terrace is particularly beautiful in the summer, with views over the River Tweed to the hills beyond.
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As you begin the homeward journey by bus, stop off to explore something truly unique in the village of Eddleston — the Great Polish Map of Scotland. Located in the atmospheric grounds of Barony Castle, the huge, three-dimensional concrete scale model of Scotland was the creation of Polish war veteran Jan Tomasik.
Further info
For bus connections from Galashiels to Edinburgh – via Innerleithen, Glentress, Peebles and Eddleston – check out Borders Buses (x62 service) or download the Traveline Scotland app. Look out for special bike-friendly double decker buses on the x62 service, with racking for four bike spaces on each service. And for accommodation options catering for every budget in Innerleithen and Peebles – along with endless places to eat, drink, visit and be inspired – come and explore the website!
Photo credits: Ian Linton; Gareth Easton; Natalie Martin; plus individual businesses.