Our second home is a lovely ground floor two bedroom flat on the historic Castlegate in Jedburgh. We are a family of seven and use it for 4-6 weeks a year, and we love it.
One bedroom has a queen-size bed, wardrobe, and drying cupboard, and the other bedroom has bunks, a full bed, a single futon and a pull-out cot. Our bathroom has a sink, toilet, big tub, and really nice shower. Our kitchen is completely equipped with dishes, appliances, a dishwasher, washer and dryer, and kitchen table. The living room has ample comfortable seating and a cozy fire, as well as a table and chairs and TV/DVD player. We have lots of family-friendly dvds.
There is even a guitar for strumming. Looking out the window, to the left, you will see the beautiful Jedburgh Abbey, circa 1100. There is a shared drying green, and our private garden has a patio, bench, table and chairs, small fire pit/grill, and plenty of Scottish heather! We have recently added a gorgeous summer house at the top of our garden for the exclusive use of our guest so they can enjoy the outdoors in all weather.
There is a drying green through the back door shared by the six flats. This leads to our garden which is private and for you to enjoy.
Bedding and towels provided. Kitchen and bathroom will have basic toiletries, first aid kit, blow dryer, toilet paper, paper towels, basic cleaning supplies, dish soap, tea, coffee, basic pantry items, iron and ironing board, and rainy day games available.
Pro tip with our amazing shower… position shower door so the seal hits the tub, turn the hot (left) on just a bit til it heats up then add a touch of cold (right). Water is super hot, pressure is super strong, drain can take some time keeping up with all the water. These tips help you get the perfect shower.
Our garden and summer house are probably one of the most relaxing spaces you will encounter on your holiday! The drying green is shared. If you need to hang clothes, the green line closest to our flat is ‘your space’.
If you need a travel cot/crib/linens, they are in the closet in the bedroom.
Travel Tips:
Spending time in Jedburgh is magic! I highly recommend visiting the Jedburgh Abbey c. 1100 which you can see from our sitting room. Walk out the front of the flat, and turn left and in a few minutes you'll be at the Castle Gael, also a fun (and a little creepy!) stop. Mary Queen of Scot's house is very informative (though calling it her 'house' is a bit of a stretch... I think she stayed there once or twice en route to Edinburgh), and the gardens are lovely.
We love to walk the trim track along the Jed River. You are sure to see ducks (bring treats!) and herons. There is also a skate park nestled in there as well as fitness elements. We like to walk the track all the way to the A68 and go to Border Meringues (yum!) and the woolen mills.
Other great places to eat are Carter's Rest (If you've never tried haggis, their haggis balls are a delicious way to get the tastes of Scotland!) and The Belters, both close by. The Capon Tree is a beautiful place- their menu and chef keeps changing so I can't say what it will be like when you go but check it out for a cocktail at least! And Bella Sicily for Italian.
And for takeout, Abbey take out for fish 'n chips. Taj Tandoori (Indian.. Peshwari Naan, Tikka Masala, and lemon rice ) and Golden River (Chinese) takeaways are very good!! You can sit in for Indian food- just plan to be there for awhile. Chinese is cash only. And there is Ozcan's for gyros/pizza and of course, Jed Bagettes (so good!) All our little cafes are lovely and there are plenty of pubs dotted around. Simply Scottish does full breakfast.
Harestane's visitor center is close by and has lovely walks to Pineal Hugue.
Shopping in Jed: we have the Co-op at the bottom of the High Street for essentials and a wonderful butcher shop, bakers, veggie shop, and another small grocery store very near the flat for provisions. There are also several interesting shops for gifts, clothes, and antiques.
Edinburgh is amazing and a cheap, quick train ride in from Tweedbank, about 15 minutes drive from Jed (or bus or taxi). A very easy and pleasant day trip (if you want to do the castle, pre-book tickets!)
We have neighbors!! No loud parties, and please be mindful and respectful of our space.
And lastly, when you contact me, keep in mind that I’m 5 hours behind you. If it’s not time-sensitive, maybe wait a bit til it’s morning in NH, but if it’s an emergency,, NO PROBLEM! ...These things I mention are just examples of challenges of having a home away from home and worth mentioning now as a seasoned super host. Regardless of all these tiny details, we absolutely adore this place and hope you do as well!
