Special offer.
“After years in fast-paced corporate roles in London, we — Neil and James — left the city behind in search of a quieter, more grounded way of life. Our journey eventually led us to the Scottish Borders, where we discovered a Victorian farmhouse built in 1850. Tucked beside the main house was an old, disused stone scullery — once the service area of the home, full of character but in need of care. We saw potential in its bones and began a thoughtful transformation, very much a labour of love. Neil led the design and the project became a deeply personal expression of our values — sourcing vintage and reclaimed furniture, layering natural textures, and introducing contemporary pieces to create a space that feels both timeless and modern. The earthy colour palette was inspired by the surrounding landscape, and every element—from heritage brass fixtures to soft linens and brushed cottons—was selected to reflect our ethos: slow, sustainable, and rooted in place. The result is a space that feels quiet, curated, and deeply personal: a modern bolthole with old-soul charm.” Owners, Neil and James
They love
“Waking up slowly with the morning light filtering through the curtains, the sound of the stream just outside the window, and nothing but birdsong in the air. The sound of nothing is what we craved after 30 years of city life.”
We love
The curation of art: blending modern works by contemporary Scottish artists with pieces from local galleries and auctions, it’s a selection that reflects both Scotland’s creative spirit and the unique atmosphere of the Yarrow Valley.
You may not love
Minimum stays, see Details. Adults only. Remote and rural; it’s a 7-mile-drive to shops/pubs/restaurants. Adjacent to the owners’ home but they are mindful of your privacy.
Sustainability.
Natural materials are at the heart of the design (reclaimed furniture, soft furnishings made from wool, brushed cotton and natural linen). Sustainability is embedded in daily operations: a recycling and composting system ensures minimal waste, with organic scraps composted on-site. All guest amenities and cleaning products are biodegradable and energy is managed through preset heating.
The owners have planted over 160 native species trees and hedgerows onsite, and areas of the garden, woodland, and surrounding fields have been intentionally left to rewild—supporting biodiversity and encouraging a thriving natural ecosystem.
The Ladhope Burn runs alongside the courtyard garden before flowing into the Yarrow Water. This river is part of the River Tweed Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), recognised for its ecological significance and biodiversity. The River Tweed and its tributaries (including the Yarrow, Ettrick, Teviot, Bowmont, Whiteadder, and Blackadder) are protected for their rich natural heritage and sensitive aquatic habitats.
Surrounds.
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By Kenny Lam for Visitscotland.com -
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Traquair House
- Wander straight out onto peaceful riverside paths, hillside trails and remote hill walks. Follow the Yarrow Water upstream, take the scenic ring around St Mary’s Loch, or join the famous Southern Upland Way. You’re more likely to see wild deer than another person.
- St Mary’s Loch is also ideal for sailing and paddleboarding. Warm up afterwards with a coffee from the Glen Café.
- Innerleithen is a buzzing village with a mountain biking heartbeat. Hire a bike or ebike and take on some of the best trails in Scotland then tuck into brunch at No1 Peebles Road.
- The Cross Keys Inn in Ettrickbridge (upmarket pub fare) is a 15-min drive away over The Swire, and The Gordon Arms — a great local restaurant — is just 8 mins; drive.
- Step back in time at Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest inhabited home packed with stories, antique treasures, a working brewery and a maze. Then visit Abbotsford House, the historic residence of Sir Walter Scott, with stunning gardens and museum pieces.
- The owners recommend the beautiful Craigieburn Gardens, filled with rare Himalayan plants, hand-curated by its resident Sherpa gardener.
- Nearby, Grey Mare’s Tail is one of the UK’s tallest waterfalls, plunging 60m through dramatic upland scenery.
- The Yarrow, Ettrick, and Tweed rivers offer exceptional salmon and brown trout fishing, with permits available. The River Tweed is one of the most famous salmon rivers in the world.
- Explore the Gothic ruins of Melrose Abbey, said to be the burial site of Robert the Bruce’s heart. Then stroll through Priorwood’s peaceful orchard and herb garden, managed by the National Trust for Scotland.
- You’re just 30 miles from Edinburgh for easy day trips.
Details.
- Private annexe to owners’ farmhouse
- Bedroom with kingsize bed
- Bathroom with shower and underfloor heating
- Toiletries provided
- Well-equipped kitchen (fridge/freezer, Bosch oven, induction hob, microwave, Grind coffee machine, washing machine/dryer)
- Basic supplies
- Lounge with Smart TV, WiFi and books
- Secure courtyard garden with garden furniture
- Parking
- The owners live next door, available by WhatsApp
- Drive to shops, pubs and restaurants (20 mins); supermarkets will deliver
- Booking conditions: a 2-night min if checking in Sun-Wed, a 3-night min if checking in Fri or Sat, and a 4-night minimum if checking in on a Thursday
- Remember to pack: walking boots/wellies, and waterproofs just in case!
30% deposit, with the balance due 4 weeks prior to stay.
Cancellations permitted 2-4 weeks prior to stay: 50% of the total booking fee retained, 50% refunded, minus a £30 processing fee.
No refunds if booking cancelled within 2 weeks of stay.
FAQs.
Yes, one small-medium dog is welcome but must be kept off furniture. The garden is secure and there is an additional charge of £25/stay.
In: 4pm / out 10am
There’s fibre to the property, so generally great but adverse weather conditions can knock it out. You’re encouraged to switch off from the world whilst here though.
It’s adjacent to the owners property, but has its own entrance and the owners are mindful of your privacy.
Because the property is so remote it is best experienced in a relaxed manner.
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