Introduction

This evening, I am reporting on Bowhill House near Selkirk in the Scottish Borders. Location is about 42 miles south of Edinburgh.

Information on the property

Bowhill is a grand mansion dating from 1812. It stands in beautiful scenery comprising mixed woodland and farming country between the Ettrick and Yarrow rivers.The interior of the property is richly endowed with artwork, decor and furniture photographs of which are not permitted. More information:-

• Long-standing connection with the Scott/Buccleuch family which includes Scottish romantic novelist, Sir Walter Scott. The latter featured “Sweet Bowhill” in his poem, Lay of the Last Minstrel. The family is currently headed by Richard, 10th Duke of Buccleuch.
• Replaced an earlier building from 1708. Much embellished during the 19th century.
• Architects included William Atkinson, William Burn and David Bryce, all of whom were active in the 19th century.
• Principal rooms comprise:
  • Gallery Hall
  • Dalkeith Room
  • Sir Walter Scott Room
  • Monmouth Room
  • Italian Room
  • Dining Room
  • Morning Room
  • Drawing Room
  • Staircase Hall.
• The extensive grounds offer visitors facilities for hiking, fishing and horse riding. There are also well maintained gardens,
• Selkirk is about one hour south of Edinburgh.

Colourful ground covering

Local landscape

Topiary

Gardens at Bowhill House

Aspect of Bowhill House

Tour Group entering Bowhill House

More information

The publication Visitors’ Guide to Scotland includes a section on castles plus a wide range of other topics. The ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. The book is also available via Kindle.