Pictures of Peebles

About Peebles

This strongly atmospheric border town possesses history, and charm and tranquillity in abundance.

The town, much loved by Scots' and tourists alike, grew up along the banks of the River Tweed, whose waters are one of the most celebrated salmon fishing destinations in the whole of Scotland. The town's coat of arms bears the motto "Against the stream they multiply" and fishermen from all corners of the Western World flock to the banks of the Tweed for its tasty offerings!

This lovely, meandering river also provides a splendid backdrop for Neidpath Castle, which lies 1 mile west of Peebles. The castle has walls 11 foot thick and still retains its 15th century tower. Historically, the castle was probably built for Sir William Hays, Sheriff of Peebles, it led a fairly peaceful existence until the onslaught of the English Civil War when the staunchly Royalist castle was battered into submission by Cromwell's artillery. Badly damaged, the building was partially repaired and sold to the Douglas Duke of Queensbury in the latter half of the 17th century. In the 18th century the 4th Duke, William Douglas Queensberry, a noted spendthrift, had all the estate trees cut down to raise money. In 1810 the Duke died and the castle passed to the Earls of Wemyss, who own it to this day. Neidpath is often used as a setting for films and television and although in private hands is usually open during certain months of the year and bank holiday weekends.

The interest of the town centre focus's on the wide High Street with its old Mercat Cross and the ruined Cross Kirk, built by Alexander II, in 1261. Apart from historical content, the High Street is crammed with souvenir shops selling everything from Whisky to Tartan! Also of interest is the bridge dating from the 15th century and The Chambers Institute, a museum, which was given to the town by William Chambers (1800-1803) and his brother Robert (1802-1871) who were born in Peebles and who published the first Chambers dictionaries and encyclopaedias.

Throughout the year Peebles plays host to several festivals, it has an Arts Festival, Highland Games and an Agricultural Show. Apart from fishing, Golf, walking and riding are popular pursuits, with the challenging upland terrain of the Forests of Tweeddale being suitable for mountain biking.

Used mostly as an inland resort town, Peebles has a wealth of hospitable hotels, inns, restaurants, cafes and pubs. Amongst its other attractions is The Cornice Museum of Ornamental Plasterwork, the John Buchan Centre, Tweeddale Museum and Picture Gallery, St. Ronan's Wells, Dawyck Botanic Garden and Kailzie Gardens.