Dryburgh sits by the Tweed River. Its remarkably complete medieval ruins makes it easy to appreciate the attractions of monastic life. The abbey buildings were destroyed by fire three times and ravaged by war on four occasions but fine examples of ecclesiastic architecture and masonry remain, and its chapter house reveals plaster and paintwork dating back to its inception.

Jedburgh Abbey, founded in 1138, was a frequent target for invading border armies. Today, there is a cloister and herb garden to explore, and a visitor centre containing 8th century carvings and artefacts excavated from the abbey grounds. Visitors can also enjoy the interactive play area within the carved stone display.

Melrose Abbey is a magnificent ruin on a grand scale with lavishly decorated masonry. The Abbey is thought to be the burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart, marked with a commemorative carved stone plaque within the grounds. Visitors can also visit a small museum housing a display of artefacts found within the abbey.

Priorwood is a specialist centre for the craft of dried flower arranging. The garden also includes an orchard where you can see historic apple varieties being grown organically.

Set high on a rocky outcrop, Smailholm is a well-preserved 15th century rectangular tower, set within a barmkin wall. It houses an exhibition of tapestries and costume dolls relating to Sir Walter Scott's Minstrelsy of the Scottish Borders.