Things To Do
in Peebles
Peebles is a charming town located in the Scottish Borders region of Scotland. It is known for its picturesque surroundings, including the River Tweed and the beautiful Peebles Hydro Hotel. The town has a rich history dating back to Roman times, with historic attractions such as Neidpath Castle and the Cross Kirk.
Peebles also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and fishing, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing bike ride along the Tweed Cycle Path. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and the fresh morning air.
Visit the Peebles Outdoor Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Grab lunch at a charming café nearby to refuel.
Wind down with a leisurely stroll along the River Tweed. Have dinner at a local restaurant featuring Scottish cuisine.
Take a hike in the stunning Glentress Forest. Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Pack a picnic and enjoy it near the forest trails. Spend some time birdwatching or exploring the flora and fauna.
Head back to Peebles for a cozy dinner at a pub. Relax and recount the day's adventures over a local brew.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic beauty with picturesque landscapes and access to the Scottish Borders.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, with historical sites and events.
- Friendly community atmosphere and a welcoming environment.
- Good local amenities including shops, cafes, and schools.
- Outdoor recreational opportunities including hiking and biking.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Potentially higher cost of living relative to the income levels in the area.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent and less extensive.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options for younger residents.
- Harsh weather conditions during winter months.
Best Activities in Peebles
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic landscapes of the Borders with numerous walking and hiking trails around Peebles, including the famous Southern Upland Way.
Enjoy cycling along the picturesque roads and mountain bike trails in and around Peebles, offering routes for all skill levels.
Take advantage of the River Tweed for fishing, known for its salmon and trout, where enthusiasts can enjoy both rod and fly fishing.
Play a round at the Peebles Golf Club, which offers a challenging 18-hole golf course set in beautiful surroundings.
Experience kayaking and canoeing on the River Tweed, providing an adventurous way to enjoy the water and surrounding nature.
Visit one of the local parks or riverside areas for a relaxing picnic amidst beautiful scenery, perfect for families and groups.
Explore local nature reserves and parks, such as the nearby Glen Tress Forest, to spot various wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty.
Take a guided heritage walk to learn about Peebles' rich history and architecture, including visits to local landmarks and historical sites.
Participate in various outdoor events and festivals held throughout the year in Peebles, including arts festivals and local markets.
Tours
Uncover the best of Peebles with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Peebles
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic castle located just outside Peebles, offering stunning views of the River Tweed and surrounding countryside. It's a great spot for picturesque photographs, especially at sunset.
The vibrant High Street of Peebles showcases charming architecture and local shops. Capture the essence of this Scottish town along with its lively atmosphere.
The banks of the River Tweed offer numerous vantage points for photography. The river's tranquil waters reflect the surrounding landscapes, especially during golden hour.
For panoramic views of the Tweed Valley and the surrounding hills, a hike up Caberston Hill is rewarding. Perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes and nature photography.
This picturesque valley is perfect for nature lovers and offers stunning views of rugged Scottish landscapes. It's ideal for both hiking and photography.
One of Scotland's oldest inhabited houses, Traquair House is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, providing numerous photo opportunities both inside and out.
A quaint park in Peebles, Beech Grove provides a serene environment with mature trees and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for capturing nature and peaceful scenes.
Food in Peebles
Peebles Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Scottish delicacy made from sheep's offal, onions, oatmeal, and spices, traditionally encased in the animal's stomach and served with neeps and tatties. Try it at The Tontine Hotel.
Must-Try!
A creamy Scottish soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. Look for this dish at Osso in the Town Centre.
A double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or other meats. Enjoy it at the Peebles Hydro's Piccolo Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Peebles better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This weekly market offers a variety of artisanal food products, locally sourced produce, and street food stalls. Don't miss the delicious homemade pastries and street food offerings on offer.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning' when entering shops or public spaces. The British value politeness, so saying 'please' and 'thank you' is essential in daily interactions.
It is customary to queue (line up) for services or when waiting for public transport. Cutting in line is considered disrespectful, so always wait your turn patiently.
Personal space is important in the UK. Avoid getting too close to others when talking, and respect people's privacy and personal conversations. Engaging in small talk is common, but avoid deeply personal topics unless you know the person well.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Peebles with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Peebles
Ensure a smooth experience
In Peebles, as in many parts of the UK, tipping is generally considered a gesture of appreciation for good service. It is customary to leave a tip in restaurants, often around 10-15% of the bill, although this can vary based on the level of service received. In pubs, it is common to round up the bill or leave small change. Tipping is less common in other settings such as taxis, where rounding up the fare is typical. Service charges may occasionally be added to the bill, particularly in larger restaurants.
Payment practices in Peebles reflect broader trends seen across the UK. Cash is still accepted widely, but card payments are increasingly common, with many businesses offering contactless payment options. Mobile payment solutions are also gaining popularity. In shops and restaurants, customers typically pay at the point of sale, and many establishments now prefer card transactions over cash due to convenience and safety. The use of digital payment apps is also becoming more prevalent.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Peebles.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a lovely time to visit Peebles as the weather starts to warm up, and flowers begin to bloom. Expect mild temperatures and the chance to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling with the beautiful backdrop of blossoming nature.
Summer (June to August) is the warmest season, making it perfect for outdoor festivals and events. Expect long daylight hours, comfortable temperatures, and opportunities for water sports on the River Tweed, as well as various cultural events.
Autumn (September to November) in Peebles offers stunning fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for photography and hiking. The weather is generally mild in September, but it can start to get cooler and rainier as you move into November.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with occasional frost and snow, creating a charming winter landscape. Expect cozy indoor activities, festive markets, and perhaps some seasonal events, but be prepared for shorter days and chilly weather.
Peebles at Night
Hiking in Peebles
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic walk through the beautiful Glen Pows, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
A lovely forested area with multiple trails, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
A picturesque valley with a range of hiking paths that cater to different skill levels.
A beautiful loch with trails around it, perfect for a day hike and enjoying the serene landscape.
A long-distance route that passes nearby, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking scenery.
Features well-maintained trails in a stunning estate setting, ideal for a leisurely hike.
A hill hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is suitable for experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Peebles through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Peebles by plane.
Edinburgh Airport is the main international airport serving Edinburgh and the surrounding area, located approximately 24 miles east of Peebles.
Glasgow Airport is located about 44 miles west of Peebles and serves as a major international gateway to Scotland.
Aberdeen International Airport is approximately 122 miles northeast of Peebles, serving the city of Aberdeen and surrounding regions.
Manchester Airport is about 189 miles south of Peebles and is one of the busiest airports in the UK, offering a wide range of international flights.
Birmingham Airport is located around 132 miles south of Peebles and is another major international airport in the UK.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly the largest demographic group, comprising the majority of the population in Peebles.
Includes individuals from various European countries and other white ethnic backgrounds.
Includes groups such as Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi individuals, though they represent a smaller portion of the population.
Represents individuals from mixed heritage, encompassing those with both White and non-White backgrounds.
A smaller demographic group which includes Black individuals from various backgrounds.
Covers other minority ethnic groups which do not fit into the above categories.
The Soul of Peebles
Discover the essence of Peebles through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a popular sport in Peebles, with local clubs participating in various leagues and events.
Football is widely played in Peebles, with many youth and adult teams engaging in local competitions.
Cycling is a favored activity in Peebles due to its scenic landscapes and numerous trails for all skill levels.
Running is a popular sport, with events such as marathons and fun runs attracting participants from the community.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Peebles, with local clubs offering courts and hosting tournaments throughout the year.
Golf is a well-loved sport in Peebles, featuring the Peebles Golf Club which attracts players from around the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Peebles.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Peebles offer diverse vegetarian and vegan dishes, ensuring that those with plant-based diets can savor the local flavors. Options include The Street Bar and Kitchen's inventive vegetarian menu.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a range of gluten-free options at venues such as Coltman's Kitchen.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Peebles with these cultural adventures.
