Scotland: Scottish Borders Guide

The mainstays of the economy have always been sheep farming and the manufacture of excellent and famous woolen fabrics. Along the course of the Tweed river runs the Mill Trail, a succession of wool mills, where you can admire ancient and prestigious tartan patterns; garments of very original modern design; try and buy beautiful pullovers in lambswool, shetland, and cashmere. The Borders do not have major cities; they are a picturesque succession of small centers, valleys, ancient abbeys, and stately homes open to visitors: Manderston House, near Duns with its amazing silver staircases; Floors Castle near Kelso, famed for being the largest Scottish residence still inhabited; the spectacular Adam Mansion, and Paxton House, near the English border.