Why Scotland is the ultimate summer staycation for 2026 – and how to experience it from SCHLOSS
Why Scotland is the ultimate summer staycation for 2026 – and how to experience it from SCHLOSS Roxburghe
Travelling to Scotland this summer is set to be easier and more affordable than ever, with new rail initiatives, including Lumo’s new low-cost London-Stirling service, launching in July, helping to open up the country to more visitors.
Of course, visitors from Northern Ireland can hop over on the wonderful Stena Line service from Belfast
With 46% of UK travellers opting for a staycation over a trip abroad this year, the Scottish Borders is emerging as a top spot for those looking to explore closer to home.
Rolling countryside, historic towns and a packed calendar of seasonal events make it an ideal base for a slower, more outdoors-focused summer break – and where better to base yourself than SCHLOSS Roxburghe?
A SCHLOSS staycation
Set within 300 acres of parkland in the heart of the region, just over an hour from Edinburgh, historic manor house hotel SCHLOSS Roxburghe combines heritage with access to the very best of the Borders.
On the estate, guests can spend long summer days exploring riverside walks, fishing on the River Teviot or playing on the championship golf course.
In addition to fishing and golfing, the estate offers a myriad of activities to cater to all interests. For those who enjoy the thrill of adventure, guided mountain biking tours are available, showcasing some of the most breathtaking landscapes Scotland has to offer. The trails, suitable for various skill levels, meander through lush forests and along sparkling rivers. After a day of biking, guests can unwind at one of the local pubs in the nearby villages, sampling traditional Scottish fare while soaking up the local atmosphere.
Activities such as archery and clay pigeon shooting offer a more traditional country pursuit experience, whilst the award-winning SCHLOSS Spa, with its heated outdoor pool, provides a place to unwind after a day outdoors.
For a unique experience, guests can participate in a pottery workshop held on-site, where they can learn the art of pottery from local artisans. This hands-on activity not only provides a creative outlet but also allows guests to take home a personalised souvenir from their stay. The workshop is designed for all ages, making it a perfect family-friendly option.
Enjoy your own space in 51 self-catering cottages
Over 2024, SCHLOSS Roxburghe opened 51 one- and two-bed self-catering cottages – ideal for guests looking for their own space. These elegantly appointed cottages feature sleek, modern kitchens, sumptuous furnishings, Molton Brown toiletries, and freestanding baths or rainfall showers, with some offering built-in saunas. The proximity of the new cottages to the award-winning golf course (and space for equipment) makes them ideal for golfers and those wanting a self-catering base from which to explore the Borders.
These cottages are not just a place to stay; they represent a home away from home. With open-plan living spaces that are ideal for family gatherings or romantic getaways, guests can enjoy the flexibility of self-catering while still having access to the luxurious amenities of the SCHLOSS Roxburghe estate. Imagine waking up to stunning views of the rolling hills, with the option to prepare a hearty Scottish breakfast before embarking on a day of exploration.
A summer in the Scottish Borders
Beyond the estate, the Scottish Borders come into their own during the summer months. Visitors can explore a vast network of walking and cycling routes, from sections of the Southern Upland Way to the scenic Tweed Valley trails, or enjoy water-based activities, including wild swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, along the River Tweed.
The Scottish Borders are a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. In addition to walking and cycling, visitors can explore the numerous castles scattered throughout the region, each with its unique history and architecture. A visit to the iconic Smailholm Tower provides insight into the area’s medieval past, while the picturesque gardens of Broughton Castle offer a serene place to relax and enjoy a picnic.
The quaint nearby town of Hawick is home to a number of independent shops, heritage knitwear mills and a strong sense of Borders identity. The Borders Distillery can also be found here, where visitors can tour the production process and sample locally crafted Scotch whisky.
The area’s historic connections are equally compelling. Floors Castle, the 17th-century home of the Duke of Roxburghe, is located just outside Kelso and is fully open for the 2026 season. Once the family seat before SCHLOSS Roxburghe, the castle now offers visitors the chance to explore its romantic interiors and artwork, landscaped gardens and riverside grounds, providing a direct link to the estate’s heritage and the wider Roxburghe story.
In the evenings, the Scottish Borders come alive with various cultural events, from music festivals to local farmers’ markets. Events like the Borders Music Festival draw crowds from all over, showcasing talented local musicians and providing a great opportunity to mingle with fellow visitors and locals alike.