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Things To Do in and around Peebles
With the beautiful town of Peebles nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders, just under an hour from Edinburgh, you can enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
Surrounded by charming villages, rolling hills, and scenic countryside, Peebles is the ideal base for discovering one of the most picturesque regions in Scotland – all from the comfort of our golf, spa, and leisure facilities.
From family-friendly heritage attractions and outdoor adventures to breathtaking walks and local events, our guide below highlights just some of the unforgettable experiences waiting for you nearby. Start planning your itinerary and make the most of your stay in this truly special part of the country.
A Day of Discovery at Edinburgh Castle
Sitting proudly on Castle Rock, high above the city, this world-famous fortress is packed with over 1,000 years of fascinating history just waiting to be explored.
From mighty cannons and ancient dungeons to royal treasures and sweeping views, there’s something to capture every imagination. Don’t miss the Stone of Destiny, used in royal coronations, or the dazzling Honours of Scotland, the oldest crown jewels in the British Isles.
Families can enjoy interactive exhibits and fun facts that bring Scotland’s dramatic past to life. Kids will love spotting all the hidden corners, while adults will enjoy the stories behind every stone.
There’s plenty to see and do, with cafes, gift shops, and picnic spots on site, and you’re just a short stroll from Edinburgh’s city centre, making it the perfect full-day family adventure.
Edinburgh Castle is a 50 minute drive from the hotel.
Images supplied by Visit Scotland.
Wild Family Adventures at Edinburgh Zoo
Get ready for an unforgettable family day out at Edinburgh Zoo, home to over 2,500 amazing animals from around the globe. Nestled in 82 acres of wooded hillside, this popular attraction offers the perfect mix of fun, learning, and adventure for kids and grown-ups alike.
Open every day, the zoo is a place where you can get up close to incredible wildlife while learning how animals are cared for and protected through important conservation work. There are plenty of hands-on experiences and engaging habitats designed to spark curiosity and excitement in visitors of all ages.
Be sure to visit Penguins Rock, one of Europe’s largest penguin enclosures, where you’ll meet Major General Sir Nils Olav, the zoo’s world-famous, knighted penguin. Then head over to the Budongo Trail, home to playful chimpanzees in a state-of-the-art enclosure. With so much to see and explore, Edinburgh Zoo promises a full day of wild fun for the whole family.
Edinburgh Zoo is a 50 minute drive from the hotel.
Images supplied by Royal Zoological Society of Scotland
Adventure Awaits at Go Ape Glentress Forest
Go Ape Glentress Forest near Peebles is the perfect place for adventurers of all ages. From high ropes courses to zooming zip wires and mountain bike trails, there’s something exciting for everyone.
The real highlight, the highest zip wire in Scotland. You’ll soar across a stunning 325-metre-long zip line, a thrilling ride that’s 160ft above the valley, with breathtaking views of the Scottish countryside below.
This outdoor adventure park offers plenty of "wow" moments for the whole family, whether you're swinging through the trees, cheering each other on, or taking in the incredible scenery. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the fresh air, get your adrenaline pumping, and create memories together. Plan for 2–3 hours of pure fun, and experience a unique family adventure that everyone will remember for years to come.
Go Ape Glentree Forest is a 6 minute drive from the hotel.
Glentress Forest – A Top Mountain Biking Destination
Glentress is a world-renowned mountain biking hub, part of the famous 7stanes trail network. Whether you're just starting out or an experienced rider, there’s a trail for every skill level.
The Lower Green Route (3.5 km) is ideal for beginners, winding gently through some of the forest’s oldest and most majestic trees. For thrill-seekers, the Black Route (29 km) offers a demanding ride with wild climbs, technical descents, and exhilarating forest tracks.
Riders can also test their abilities on the Taster Trails, graded Blue (Moderate), Red (Difficult), and Black (Severe), located east of the Gateway building. These shorter loops are perfect for building confidence before heading into the main trails. With its mix of natural beauty and world-class riding, Glentress is a must-visit for cyclists of all levels.
Glentree Mountain Biking is a 4 minute drive from the hotel.
Images supplied by Visit Scotland
1881 Distillery & Gin School – A Spirited Experience in Peebles
Located at Peebles Hydro, 1881 Distillery is a unique gin experience built on the site of a Victorian swimming pool, using water from the hotel’s private spring, Shieldgreen. This award-winning distillery has crafted a range of premium gins including Hydro, Pavilion, Honours, Rafters, and the exotic Tiffin Gin.
Home to the largest residential gin school in the UK, 1881 offers hands-on gin-making experiences, distillery tours, and the chance to meet Felicity, their gleaming copper still. You’ll explore the beautiful gardens, learn about the distillation process, and even craft your own bespoke gin using an array of botanicals.
Distillery tours begin with a refreshing G&T before diving into the history of the Hydro and the gin-making journey. Whether you're a gin enthusiast or curious beginner, 1881 Distillery is a fun, flavour-filled day out in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
1881 Distillery & Gin School is a 6 minute drive from the hotel.
Images supplied by 1881 Distillery & Gin School