Kelso

Kelso

Town Square,Kelso, Scotland.

Introduction

This evening, I am posting information on the town of Kelso in the Scottish Borders region.

Kelso is about 44 miles S.E. of Edinburgh and impresses as a pleasant place. The town is well endowed with hotels, shops, interesting architecture and restaurants.

Video clip of town square

Facts and information

  • Population 5639.
  • The name is a blend of Old English and Latin which roughly translates as ‘lime hill’ . This is due to the chalky nature of the terrain.
  • Here can be found the largest cobbled market square in Scotland.
  • Most of the town centre dates from around 1750 onwards, i.e. Georgian and Victorian. The impressive Town Hall was constructed in 1816.
  • Kelso is positioned close to the River Tweed. The bridge over the Tweed dates from 1754. This acted as a catalyst to development of the town via improved communications.
  • Close to the town is Floors Castle, the largest inhabited castle in Scotland and a visitor attraction.
  • The ruins of Kelso Abbey can be found close to the centre. This building has its origins in the 12th century. It was heavily damaged by English attacks with final denouement in 1560 with the Reformation.
River Tweed and Bridge
Town Hall
Floors Castle
Kelso War Memorial and Abbey
Fishing on River Tweed
Kelso Old Parish Church-Presbyterian.

Historic and Architectural Features

This house was formerly known as the ‘Ragged School’.
Historic Houses
Horseshoe embedded in Roxburgh Street and traditionally associated with ‘Bonnie’ Prince Charlie (1720-1788). This prince led a failed uprising to regain the British thrones for the exiled Stuart dynasty.
Queen Anne Architecture.

More information

Please refer Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This publication includes information on Scottish history, the Scottish Borders region and much more. This book is also available via Kindle.

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