PAXTON
A perfect location to explore both the Scottish Borders and Northumberland.
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Paxton is a beautiful little village nestled right on the Scottish Border with England which makes it the perfect base to explore both the Borders and Northumberland. As well as quaint, country homes you'll find the renowned Cross Inn restaurant and pub, a children's play park and Paxton House.
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Paxton House is a beautiful example of a Georgian stately home. If you take a tour, you’ll find the staff are very knowledgeable and interesting. The Stables Tea Room serves delicious soups, scones and cakes with a dog menu for the pups (seated outside). There is an adventure playground for children and (in season) boat trips up the River Tweed. There's usually lots going on at Paxton House such as antique markets, cultural events, and workshops for children so we'd suggest checking their website in advance of your stay.
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You can wander around the beautiful grounds or walk a bit further along the banks of the River Tweed to the Union Chain Bridge and stand in Scotland and England at the same time!
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If you've made it to the bridge, we recommend walking a little up the hill to the Chain Bridge Honey Farm which has a visitor centre, shop, and (seasonal) tea room aboard a double decker bus with delicious cakes and sandwiches!
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BERWICK UPON TWEED
SPITTAL BEACH
A lovely beach with a nice promenade to walk along if you don’t fancy getting sand in your shoes! There are a few places on and around the promenade to get something to eat. It’s dog friendly all year round with free parking and wheelchair accessibility.
For kids there is a play park and splash park, with the promenade offering the chance to cycle or scoot as it’s nice and flat! If you don’t mind a walk, you can walk into town via ‘The Old Bridge’ and take in great views of the Royal Border Bridge and the Tweed Estuary.
SHOPPING
As well as a few of the well-known names, you’ll find an abundance of quirky independents, vintage and antique shops to explore. In particular, we love pottering around No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store (Woolmarket) and Slightly Foxed Books on Bridge Street with its huge selection of second hand books.
THE MALTINGS
This cinema and theatre hosts hundreds of showings and live cultural events throughout the year.
WALK THE ELIZABETHAN WALLS
A 1.25 mile route with fantastic views of the town, the North Sea and the Tweed Estuary from the 450 year old fortress. Flagstaff Park is accessible from here for a lovely walk and a great play park.
BERWICK BOAT TRIP
This is a must-do if you’re a fan of wildlife, with the opportunity to see dolphins, seals and sea-birds. There is a variety of different trips to take so have a look at their website or Facebook page. We do recommend wrapping up well if you take an evening trip, even in the summer!
LOWRY TRAIL
Follow the trail and see first hand the sites of many of L S Lowry’s paintings including the first one he painted of Berwick in 1935. Maps available in the tourist office and many shops and eateries.
FESTIVALS
There are many local, traditional events and festivals throughout the year. We suggest the Visit Berwick website to see what's on.
EYEMOUTH
The quaint harbour town of Eyemouth is around 15 minutes drive up the A1. Lovely for a stroll around the streets or walk on the beach - and be sure to do it with a Giacopazzi’s chippy or ice cream in hand!
ST ABB'S
Just along the coast from Eyemouth is the picturesque fishing village of St Abbs. It has a stunning clifftop coastal path with break-taking views so don’t forget your camera!
Ebbcarrs café beside the car park offers a large selections of meals, cakes, ice cream and hot drinks to unwind after your walk and the visitor centre is very friendly too.
ALNWICK
Famous for its castle which was a Harry Potter filming location, Alnwick also has the award-winning Alnwick Garden. Both offer seasonal events so check out their websites before you visit. If you plan to visit the castle, book online and you’ll get an annual pass to visit as often as you like!
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The town itself has cobbled streets filled with lovely independent shops (include one of the UK's largest second hand book shops), cafés and pubs. Market days are Thursday and Saturday year round with a Wednesday market running June - October.
BAMBURGH
Again widely known for its castle, Bamburgh has a golden, sandy beach with views of Holy Island, while the village itself is pretty to wander around. The beach is dog-friendly year round and dogs are allowed in the grounds of the castle on-leash.
If you enjoy photography or birdwatching this is a great place to visit and takes only half an hour by car from the cottage.
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