Jedburgh is one of the prettiest towns in the Scottish Borders, just 10 miles from the border with England. If you’re passing through on your way to or from Scotland, or are visiting the borders as your destination then it is a town not to be missed.

Being so close to the border, Jedburgh holds a lot of history so there are plenty of historical attractions and buildings to visit. The colourful buildings of Market Place and Canongate are there to be explored for their shops and cafes, and there’s opportunities to enjoy the surrounding natural areas too. 

Jedburgh Abbey

Jedburgh Abbey is one of four gothic abbeys in the Scottish Borders from the 12th Century, and the ruins stand proudly on top of the hill overlooking the town. The visitor centre takes bookings for visits, and there are clear directions for you to make your way around this impressive structure. The abbey has a colourful history, having been destroyed and rebuilt many times.

To find out more and book your tickets, visit the Jedburgh Abbey website.

Mary Queen of Scots House & Visitor Centre

Mary Queen of Scots stayed at the 16th century tower house in the centre of Jedburgh for a few weeks in 1566. It is now a visitor centre that details the history of her life, her story, and has artefacts, paintings and objects on display. The garden surrounding the house is also lovely to enjoy a stroll through.

Book your tickets to visit Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre here.

Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum

At the far end of Jedburgh up the hill sits Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum. Visitors can wander through what looks like a castle, but was actually a prison from the 1820s. A good day out for kids who can learn the stories of prisoners, play dress up, and enjoy the views from the grounds. It’s also said to be haunted!

Find out opening times and book your visit here.

Jedburgh Town Trail

The Jedburgh town trail takes visitors on a 1.5 mile walk through the town, and past it’s most iconic and historic spots, including those previously mentioned. The blue plaques throughout the town provide information as you walk, or you can download a leaflet here.

Woodside Garden Centre & Tearoom

Woodside is a lovely walled garden, garden centre and tearoom just outside of Jedburgh and a must visit for anyone with a green thumb. Or anyone who enjoys coffee and cake! Enjoy the horticulture, as well as the aquatic centre and the tearoom with outside seating perfect for summer months. You can even take your dog here in the outside areas. Woodside is open daily, and also has a grocery shop selling local fresh produce.

Visit the Woodside Garden Centre website here.

Jedburgh Walks

Being in such a beautiful location and with the River Jed running through, there are quite a few town and riverside walks to enjoy through and from Jedburgh. Walk along the river itself, spot wildlife in woodland, and see which other little towns you stumble across. Visit Scotland have brochures, trail routes and more information on their website here.

Monteviot House & Gardens

Monteviot House is an 18th Century home with vast beautiful gardens close to the River Teviot. As well as learning the history of the Lothian Family by visiting the house and taking a guided tour through all the rooms, you can also enjoy the gardens, including the rose garden, winter garden, and herb garden to name a few. Other activities include woodland walks and fishing.

For full visitor information visit the website here.

Harestanes Countryside Visitor Centre

Harestanes Countryside visitor centre will be the starting point for a lovely day out in the country, with stunning scenery to enjoy, a tearoom and facilities, a huge playpark, and a base to explore the area. Open daily through the summer they often have exhibitions and events, otherwise just begin your family day out from here.

Have a look at Days Out With Kids blog post here.

Stay in Ferniehirst Castle

It wouldn’t be Scotland without a castle being mentioned, and Ferniehirst Castle near Jedburgh gives you the opportunity to stay in one. It sleeps 18 across nine bedrooms, has a great hall, and has a fascinating history. A great place for a big group to stay and from which to explore all that Jedburgh has to offer.

Find out more details on Ferniehirst Castle here.

With a picturesque town centre, an abundance of history, castles, royal stories and nature to enjoy, there are plenty of varied things to do in Jedburgh. A must visit for anyone visiting the Scottish Borders, and if you’re passing through on a longer journey it’s a great stopping place. For more on Jedburgh and some of the neighbouring towns you could also visit in the region, have a look at my Scottish Borders blogs here.