The Borders really do have something for everyone, and you are sure to find something to match
your interests. Below is a list of some of the most popular recreational activities in the area.
If your interest isn't listed below, please check out our links or contact us and we will be only
too pleased to help you.
Megget Reservoir
Whilst staying at the Cross Keys Inn why not try your luck at fly fishing on the Megget Reservoir. Day Tickets are available
at the Inn from £10 a day fishing from the bank and £30 a day with a boat, life jackets are
provided. The Reservoir is well stocked with brown trout and the scenery is breath taking, and it's only
20 minutes from the Inn.
Mountain Biking
We offer secure storage and washing facilities for all of your mountain
bike gear. After a hard days riding why not relax in the Restaurant and Inn, where we offer great home cooked
food, ales, malts and draught beer in front of an open fire.
Glentress and Innerleithen in the Tweed Valley have a massive reputation for some of the best mountain
biking in the UK and it's only 30 minutes drive from the Cross Keys Inn.
Glentress is probably the best biking centre in Britain, with brilliant trails of all grades, a
top-notch cafe, a bike shop with bike hire, changing and showering facilities, and a great atmosphere.
Innerleithen, situated just a few miles south east of Glentress, is quite different from its
better-known sister - away from the hustle and bustle, it's a venue for the more experienced rider.
Golf in the Borders
The Scottish Borders offer some of the best value golf that you are likely to find anywhere. With
the Freedown of the Fairways package and the number of 9 or 18 hole courses you can play, there can
be no excuse for not having a golfing break. The Cross Keys Inn is an ideal base for such a break
with most courses within a 30 minute drive.
Fishing
The Scottish Borders offer some of the best fresh water fishing in Scotland at prices that will
not break the bank. Come and fish for trout or salmon in rivers such as the Yarrow, Ettrick Water,
Tweed and Teviot or why not give our many lochs and reservoirs a try. Trout fishing permits are
available from the Cross Keys Inn and Salmon permits can be arranged upon request.
Walking, Cycling and Riding
Walking, Cycling and Riding in the Borders is often over-looked by those who think that the only
places to walk in Scotland are to the North. They would be in for a pleasant surprise if they stopped
in the Borders. There is walking for everybody, from the serious walker to the casual rambler. A small
booklet called Brigend Walks is available from the Cross Keys Inn with detailed walks around the
village. There are a number of walks also available at the Bowhill Estate.
Cyclists have the choice of riding around on the country roads visiting the charming villages all
around the area and also the spectacular scenery between them. Any serious mountain bikers will
doubtlessly have just one thing on their minds Glentress the renowned biking course just a short
journey up the road from Ettrickbridge.
Horse Riding
Horse Riding is huge in this area with stabling available nearby this an ideal spot for a rider and
horse get-away. With rides varying from a trek down the Ettrick or Yarrow Valley to the famous Buccleuch
Rides or the Selkirk common-riding a historic journey around the border of Selkirk (taking place each
June).
Historic sites
Traquair House is the oldest inhabited house in Scotland, it has a colourful past and has been visited
by over 27 monarchs including Mary Queen of Scots. Bowhill, hidden deep in woodland set in magnificent
scenery, has many priceless paintings and a 'Little Theatre', host to many top entertainers. Abbotsford,
home to the great novelist Sir Walter Scott is also close by. Melrose Abbey is home to the heart of Robert
the Bruce, the great Scottish King. Floors Castle is an extravagant castellated fantasy where you can wander
through spectacular staterooms filled with priceless European paintings, tapestries and furnishings.
Edinburgh
Is full of yet more historic sites such as Edinburgh Castle or the National Gallery, and is within a
reasonable distance to go on a day trip. There is a fantastic array of shops along famous Princes Street, and a must visit Princes Street Gardens. A wander along the Royal Mile will provide a venture back into
past civilisations. |
