Peebles Travel Guide

Discover the charming town of Peebles with its cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking opportunities, food and drink scene, and local culture. Plan your next trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Peebles

Located in the Scottish Borders, Peebles is a charming town known for its stunning natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage. It is a popular tourist destination that offers a perfect blend of historic landmarks, outdoor adventures, and warm hospitality. If you’re planning a trip to Peebles, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Peebles

There are numerous attractions in Peebles that cater to different interests and age groups. Here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tweeddale Museum and Gallery: This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Peebles through its impressive collection of artwork, historic objects, and interactive exhibits.
  • Neidpath Castle: An impressive 14th-century castle that offers visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent history.
  • St. Andrews Church: A beautiful historic church that features stunning architecture and a serene atmosphere.

Natural Attractions of Peebles: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Glentress Forest: This picturesque forest offers numerous hiking, biking, and camping opportunities amidst nature’s beauty.
  • Peebles Hydro: A grand hotel that is perfect if you want to relax and indulge in some pampering amidst scenic surroundings.
  • The John Buchan Way: An incredible hiking route that takes you through rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Peebles

Peebles is known for its extensive network of hiking and biking trails that cater to different difficulty levels and fitness levels. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a beginner biker, Peebles has something to offer. Some of the popular trails in Peebles include:

  • The Tweed Valley Forest Park: This beautiful park offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s woodland trails and rugged countryside.
  • The Southern Uplands Way: This 212-mile hiking route stretches from the west to the east coast of Scotland, blending stunning coastal and countryside views.
  • The Border Loop: A mountain biking route that offers a challenging ride and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Peebles: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to relax and have a good time, Peebles offers several activities and tours that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of the best things to do in Peebles include:

  • Go on a guided cycling or hiking tour and explore the region’s stunning landscapes and historic landmarks.
  • Visit the local distilleries and taste some of Scotland’s finest whiskey blends.
  • Take a stroll around Peebles and soak in the town’s charming atmosphere that is steeped in history and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Peebles

If you’re planning to spend a week in Peebles, here’s a suggested itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Peebles: Visit the Tweeddale Museum and Gallery, take a stroll along Tweedgreen, and enjoy a picnic at the Victoria Park.
Day 2 Go on a mountain biking tour of Glentress Forest.
Day 3 Visit the Neidpath Castle and take a guided tour of the historic landmark.
Day 4 Take a guided hiking tour of the John Buchan Way.
Day 5 Attend a whiskey-tasting session at a local distillery.
Day 6 Visit the St. Andrews Church and take a leisurely stroll along the town’s streets.
Day 7 Relax and unwind at Peebles Hydro.

Food and Drink Scene of Peebles

Peebles is a foodie’s paradise with several excellent local eateries that offer a wide range of dishes and drinks to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cullen Skink: Scotland’s signature dish that is made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and creamy milk.
  • Haggis: A traditional Scottish dish that is made with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oats and spices, and served with neeps and tatties.
  • Cullenbeeck: A hearty soup that is made with vegetables, smoked haddock, and milk.

Local Beverages

  • Whiskey: Scotland’s famous drink that is made from fermented barley and aged in oak barrels.
  • Beer: Peebles is known for its excellent microbreweries that offer a wide range of ale blends.
  • Gin: Scotland’s latest craze, Peebles is home to several artisanal gins that are distilled with local botanicals and herbs.

Where to Stay in Peebles: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Peebles has several hotels, hostels, and guesthouses that cater to different budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best places to stay in Peebles:

  • Peebles Hydro: A grand hotel that offers luxurious accommodation and upscale amenities amidst scenic surroundings.
  • The Crown Hotel: A family-run hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a warm and inviting atmosphere.
  • The Tontine Hotel: A historic hotel that features elegant decor and a cosy ambiance.

What to Buy in Peebles: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Peebles is known for its locally grown produce, artisanal crafts, and handmade textiles. If you’re looking for souvenirs and gifts to bring home, here are some local products to consider:

  • Knitwear: Peebles is known for its traditional hand-knitted sweaters, scarfs, and hats that feature intricate patterns and high-quality wool.
  • Whiskey: Scotland’s famous drink, Peebles is home to several distilleries that offer a wide range of whiskey blends.
  • Tweed: Peebles is known for its high-quality tweed fabric that is used to make jackets, coats, and bags.

Local Culture and Customs of Peebles

Peebles is a town that is steeped in history and culture, and the locals take great pride in their heritage and traditions. Here are some of the local customs and culture to observe while in Peebles:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and historic landmarks.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when attending cultural festivals.
  • Brush up on some basic conversations Gaelic greetings to show your respect for the local language and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Peebles

The best time to visit Peebles is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and most of the outdoor activities and tourist attractions are open. The town also hosts several cultural festivals and events during this period, making it an ideal time to experience local traditions and customs.

Do’s and Don’ts of Peebles

When visiting Peebles, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Explore the town’s rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Try local delicacies and beverages.
  • Engage with the locals and learn about their customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.
  • Be noisy or disruptive in public places.

Safety and Health

Peebles is a safe and healthy destination that is free from major diseases and health hazards. However, it is important to take basic safety precautions and maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Peebles

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items in public places.
  • Observe traffic rules and be careful while crossing roads.
  • Stay alert and vigilant in crowded areas and tourist attractions.

Health in Peebles

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated while exploring the town’s natural surroundings.
  • Apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing to avoid sunburn and other skin problems.
  • Consult a doctor if you experience any health issues or concerns.

Getting to Peebles: Transportation Options and Logistics

Peebles is well-connected to major cities and towns in Scotland and the United Kingdom. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider when planning your trip:

Airports Near Peebles

  • Edinburgh International Airport: Located 22 miles from Peebles, Edinburgh International Airport is the closest airport to Peebles that serves both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Peebles

  • Peebles Bus Station: Located in the town centre, Peebles Bus Station is the main bus terminal that connects Peebles to other major cities and towns in Scotland.

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest train station to Peebles is located in Galashiels, which is 18 miles away.
  • Car: Peebles is well-connected to major highways and motorways in Scotland, making it easy to drive to the town from other parts of the United Kingdom.

How to Get Around in Peebles

Peebles is a small town that is best explored on foot or by bike. You can also rent a car or take public transportation if you want to travel further afield. Here are some transportation options in Peebles:

  • Walking: Peebles has several walking trails that are ideal for exploring the town’s charming streets and historic landmarks.
  • Biking: Peebles is a popular destination for mountain bikers, and there are several bike rental shops in the town that offer bikes and gear rentals.
  • Public transportation: Peebles has a reliable bus network that connects the town to other major cities and towns in Scotland.

Where to Go Next from Peebles: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time, consider visiting some nearby destinations and excursions from Peebles:

  • Edinburgh: Scotland’s charming and historic capital city that is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.
  • Glasgow: A lively and vibrant city that is known for its art, culture, and music scene.
  • The Scottish Borders: A picturesque region that is known for its rolling hills, stunning landscapes, historic castles, and charming villages.

Conclusion

Peebles is a beautiful and charming destination that offers visitors a unique and authentic Scottish experience. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor adventures, or just want to relax and unwind, Peebles has something to offer everyone. Plan your next trip to Peebles with this comprehensive guide and discover all that this stunning town has to offer.

Bridge over the River Tweed in Peebles Bridge over the River Tweed in Peebles Courtyard of Traquair House Courtyard of Traquair House Dawyck Botanical Garden Dawyck Botanical Garden