Things to Do in Coldstream
Things to Do in Coldstream – I ended up working in this small town, right on the border with England, so if you’re visiting or passing through, here are a few highlights to tempt you.
Hirsel Estate
FREE This 500 acre estate offers five walks to choose between – Crooks Walk, Lake Walk, Dundock Walk, Riverside Walk and Dunglass Walk. The large lake is home to ducks and swans but due to the amount of duck, geese, and gulls that overwinter here it’s also a recognised Site of Scientific Interest. 170 separate species have been identified.
In the Spring look out for Snowdrops, Aconites and acres of Daffodils. In Summer it’s the turn of the Rhododendrons and Azaleas in Dundock Wood. The estate is the former home of Prime Minister Alex Douglas Home so look out for his statue near the entry to the estate. [£2.50 for all day parking.]
Hirsel Homestead
FREE At the heart of Hirsel Estate is its Homestead. Here you’ll find a small museum touching on life in the country. The cafe is one of the best places to eat in town. A playground lets little ones let off steam. Plus a host of local makers and craftsmen have galleries and studios here, so it’s very easy to spend pennies on unique pieces. [£2.50 for all day parking.]
Coldstream Museum
FREE The Coldstream Museum primarily covers the battles and campaigns fought by the Coldstream Guards, the oldest continuously serving regular regiment in the British Army. It’s most famously known for marching from Scotland to help restore the monarchy in 1660. Other aspects of Coldstream life are also covered, from historic clothing to industry.
The museum is also home to small gallery featuring local artists. Works are for sale too.
Cross the Bridge into England
At the edge of the town a small bridge crosses the River Tweed. One end of the bridge is in Scotland, the other is in England. I found it childishly novel and exciting to cross the bridge several times.
Coldstream Civic Week
A key event in Coldstream’s calendar is the Civic Week in early August. It’s summed up as a week celebrating Coldstream’s history and people. Its highlight is Flodden Day, a ride out with more than 300 riders taking part to commemorate the Battle of Flodden.
Day Trip from Coldstream
Cross the border into Northumberland/England to visit Flodden Field, to discover more about this fatal battle for King James IV of Scotland. The Visitor Centre is to be found in a bright red phone box! Discover all the details here.
Visit all the sites on the Ford & Etal Estate, including a Heavy Horse Centre, ruined castles, a steam railway and a beautifully painted school hall. Find out more here.
Things to Do in Northumberland with Kids
Other Borders town such as Kelso and Jedburgh are nearby. Alternatively, hit the coast at Eyemouth or Berwick Upon Tweed.
Things to Do in the Scottish Borders
Where to Stay
I ended up staying in a traditional simple coaching inn called The Bluebell Inn, five minutes from Coldstream in Cornhill on Tweed. A cosy bar serving up bar meals completed the picture. You’ll find more luxurious hotels nearby, but this was very good value! I paid £93 for dinner, bed and breakfast.
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