Kelso is a charming town located in the Scottish Borders, United Kingdom. Situated on the banks of the River Tweed, it offers breathtaking natural landscapes and a warm and welcoming community. Visitors can explore beautiful gardens, admire the historic Kelso Castle, and enjoy a cup of coffee in the town's cozy cafes. The ruins scattered throughout the area provide a glimpse into Kelso's rich history, while its vibrant bar scene and cultural events offer a taste of local entertainment. Additionally, Kelso is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. For a delightful stay, consider booking a comfortable apartment in this picturesque French-style town.

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Our top choices for Kelso hotels




1. Schloss Roxburghe Golf Resort, Part of Destination by Hyatt
Schloss Roxburghe Golf Resort, Part of Destination by Hyatt



2. Ednam House Hotel
Ednam House Hotel



3. Roxburghe Cottages, Part of Destination by Hyatt
Roxburghe Cottages, Part of Destination by Hyatt



4. The Central Guest House
The Central Guest House



5. Inglestone House
Inglestone House



6. Abbotsford
Abbotsford



7. The Border Hotel
The Border Hotel



8. Rowantree Cottage
Rowantree Cottage



9. Kirk Cottage
Kirk Cottage



10. Newcastle Arms Hotel
Newcastle Arms Hotel



11. Dryburgh Abbey Hotel
Dryburgh Abbey Hotel



12. The Wheatsheaf at Swinton
The Wheatsheaf at Swinton



13. Burts Hotel
Burts Hotel



14. The Townhouse Hotel
The Townhouse Hotel



15. Buccleuch Arms
Buccleuch Arms



16. Chatton Park House Hotel Adult Only
Chatton Park House Hotel Adult Only



17. The Glen Guesthouse
The Glen Guesthouse



18. Pantile Lodge
Pantile Lodge



19. Cross Keys Inn
Cross Keys Inn



20. George and Abbotsford Hotel
George and Abbotsford HotelStay near popular Kelso attractions
Floors Castle
Smailholm Tower
Kelso Racecourse
Mellerstain House
Kelso Abbey
Kelso Old Parish Church
Borders Abbeys Way
Pennine Way
Top Kelso Hotel Reviews
Dirty Bottles
"Beautiful hotel. Loved the history and room themes!"
Newcastle Arms Hotel
"Lovely stay, super friendly and helpful staff, room had everything we needed- thank you!"
The Lindisfarne Inn - The Inn Collection Group
"Great staff... great hotel!"
Bailiffgate Hotel
"Lovely decor Clean room Staff very friendly Car park very inaccessible Incredibly difficult to get luggage up steps to hotel Not enough spaces in front of hotel to drop luggage off Gluten free and vegan options in restaurant were disappointing- the vegan burger was badly cooked and almost inedible. The gluten free fish coating was too hard. Rooms very stylish but lacking storage"
Marshall Meadows Manor House
"Lovely place to stay, wish we could have stayed longer."
Purdy Lodge
"The property was handily placed adjacent to a petrol station and right next to the A1 BUT at no time was there any fuel smell or any noise from both it and the busy main road! All the staff were friendly, helpful & professional. The room, facilities, corridors & common spaces were very clean and tidy! Both dinner and breakfast were excellent and dinner well priced! The bar area was clean and tidy and well stocked with all manner of drinks! Checking in & out were extremely well managed and far superior to similar establishments in the area!"
The Tempus at Charlton Hall Estate
"Couldnโt recommend The Tenpus at Charlton Hall more! We stayed in one of the lakeside lodges and had such a lovely relaxing time. We had planned to eat at the Lobster Pot in Bamburgh but lucky for us they were a chef down and couldnโt accommodate us so we ate in the Tempus restaurant which was outstanding. I didnโt catch our servers name but he was so friendly and made us very welcome. Food was delicious. Canโt wait to book againโฆ absolutely loved everything about our visit."
Roxburghe Cottages Part of Destination by Hyatt
"Spacious one bedroom cottage, clean and the surroundings were lovely. Staff were pleasant, friendly and attentive."
Doxford Hall Hotel & Spa
"Food was excellent. It would have been useful to have booked our dining times perhaps on booking as times were so limited on the second night we had to go to the local pub which was disappointing. Very comfy bed. Spa treatment lovely. Overall a lovely relaxing time"
More cheap stays in Kelso

Newcastle Arms Hotel

The Castle Hotel

Homesly Guest Rooms - Self Checkin

The Old Post Office - B&B and Coffee Shop

The Hall
Find out more about Kelso
Uncover the historic charm of Kelso in Scotland's Borders
Top reasons to visit Kelso
- Outdoor Adventures: Experience a variety of activities such as golfing, horse riding, and exploring scenic recreational areas.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Visit historic sites like Kelso Abbey and enjoy the local traditions and customs.
- Exciting Racecourse: Attend thrilling events at the Kelso Racecourse, a hub of local excitement.
- Charming Accommodation: Choose from a range of welcoming lodgings, from cosy B&Bs to comfortable hotels.
- Scenic Countryside: Enjoy the tranquil landscapes surrounding Kelso, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Find your hotel in Kelso
Kelso offers a variety of hotel accommodations to suit all preferences. From luxurious 5-star hotels to comfortable 3-star options, you'll find the perfect place to stay in Kelso.
- SCHLOSS Roxburghe - This 5.0-star hotel is part of Destination by Hyatt. Located by the river, it offers a stunning setting with friendly staff, beautiful gardens, a castle, coffee facilities, and a rich historical ambiance. Enjoy exploring nearby ruins and fishing opportunities.
- The Border Hotel - With a 3.0-star rating, this hotel is ideal for hikers and bikers. It features a lively bar, complimentary breakfast, recreational facilities, and is pet-friendly. Enjoy tours and excursions in the charming small town of Kelso.
- Ednam House Hotel - Also a 3.0-star hotel, Ednam House is situated by the river and offers picturesque views. It's known for its elegant wedding venues, countryside walks, friendly staff, and concierge services. Experience the best of urban and rural Kelso.
Staying in Kelso provides a unique blend of natural beauty, historical attractions, and warm hospitality. Whether you're interested in exploring the stunning countryside, visiting ancient monuments, or enjoying the friendly local culture, Kelso has it all. Book your stay in one of these top hotels and experience the charm of Kelso firsthand.
Where to stay in and around Kelso
Kelso, nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences. With its warm Scottish hospitality, visitors can explore the town's historical sites and enjoy the serene countryside. Nearby attractions feature relaxing atmospheres and secluded spots, perfect for unwinding. Whether youโre wandering the charming streets or venturing into the stunning landscapes, Kelso promises a memorable escape infused with local charm.
- Melrose: Nestled 18km from Kelso, Melrose is a charming town rich in culture and history. Known for its stunning landscapes, it attracts visitors year-round, particularly during the peak months of January and from March to April. Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the many hiking trails and golf courses available. The town boasts significant landmarks, including historic sites and a magnificent abbey, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a romantic getaway or cultural immersion.
- East Neuk: This picturesque area around Kelso offers a delightful blend of adventure and scenic beauty. With peak visitor numbers from July to September, East Neuk is perfect for outdoor lovers looking to explore its trails and beaches. Visitors can enjoy the charming harbours and marinas that dot the coastline, providing a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and water-based activities. The area's stunning scenery makes it a must-visit for anyone keen on experiencing the best of Scotland's coastal charm.
- Kirk Yetholm: Located near Kelso, this quaint village presents a tranquil escape for families and adventurers alike. With a steady flow of visitors, particularly peaking in January, April, and July, Kirk Yetholm offers a unique outdoor experience, including access to a planetarium observatory. The village is surrounded by natural beauty, featuring waterfalls, parks, and beaches, making it an ideal destination for family outings and outdoor exploration.
Experience the top activities and must-see sights in Kelso
Kelso is a charming town in Scotland, known for its picturesque river, friendly locals, beautiful gardens, and historical attractions such as castles and ruins. Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the town's coffee shops, bars, and cultural sites. Enjoy fishing in the river and soak in the rich history that surrounds you.
- Floors Castle: Visit this stunning castle and marvel at its grandeur while enjoying the scenic river views. Explore the well-maintained gardens and immerse yourself in the rich history of the castle.
- Mellerstain House: Step back in time as you wander through this historic house, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Admire the architectural details and learn about the house's fascinating past.
- Smailholm Tower: Climb to the top of this historic tower and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the ruins and imagine the stories that these ancient walls could tell.
How to find great deals and cheap hotels in Kelso
- Look for hotel deals in Kelso on the Expedia website to save on accommodation costs.
- Consider staying in a guesthouse, bed and breakfast, or budget hotel in Kelso to find affordable options.
- Use the search filters on Expedia to find hotels that fit your budget and preferences.
- Take advantage of off-peak travel times, such as weekdays or non-holiday periods, to potentially find lower hotel rates in Kelso.
- Check for any special promotions, discounts, or package deals offered by hotels in Kelso on the Expedia website.
- Look for hotels located near the river, gardens, castle, and other attractions in Kelso for convenience and scenic views.
- Explore the option of self-catering accommodations, such as holiday cottages or apartments, which can be more cost-effective for longer stays in Kelso.
- Consider sharing accommodations with travel companions to split the cost and save on hotel expenses in Kelso.
- Don't forget to read reviews and compare amenities and services offered by different hotels in Kelso before making a booking decision.
Discover the flavours of Kelso
When it comes to local cuisine in Kelso, you can expect a delightful dining experience with a variety of unique dishes. One highlight is The Waggon Inn, a European restaurant that offers a charming atmosphere and a menu filled with delicious European dishes. Another great option is The Contented Vine, another European restaurant that offers a cozy setting and a menu featuring a range of European delights. For those craving Asian flavours, Kwan's is the place to go, serving up tasty Asian dishes in a welcoming ambiance. Whether you're in the mood for European or Asian cuisine, Kelso has excellent restaurants to satisfy your cravings.
In terms of popular restaurants in Kelso, The Waggon Inn and The Contented Vine are local favorites. The Waggon Inn offers a diverse menu of European dishes in a warm and inviting setting. The Contented Vine, on the other hand, provides a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with European delights. For those seeking Asian cuisine, Kwan's is a top choice, offering a range of delicious Asian dishes. Whether you're a fan of European or Asian flavours, Kelso has a variety of excellent restaurants to cater to your culinary preferences.
Best time to go to Kelso
Kelso boasts a year-around average temperature of 7.4ยฐC, peaking at 13.9ยฐC in July, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 2.0ยฐC in January, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 51.5mm annually, with December seeing the heaviest showers and April, May being the driest month.
Month![]() | Temperature (Celcius)![]() | Rainfall (mm)![]() |
| January | 2.0 | 69.8 |
| February | 2.8 | 45.7 |
| March | 4.0 | 45.7 |
| April | 6.0 | 34.3 |
| May | 8.7 | 34.3 |
| June | 11.3 | 36.8 |
| July | 13.9 | 36.8 |
| August | 13.5 | 53.3 |
| September | 11.2 | 45.7 |
| October | 8.2 | 69.8 |
| November | 4.9 | 69.8 |
| December | 2.3 | 76.2 |
The nearest major airports for your trip to Kelso
Accessing Kelso, Scotland is convenient via three major airports. EDInburgh Airport (EDI), situated 71km away, offers nearby accommodations such as Crescent House and Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both approximately 11km from the airport. GLAsgow International Airport (GLA) is 129km from Kelso, with luxurious stays like JA Mar Hall Scotland and Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa located within 4 to 11km. Lastly, Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is 77km away, with Delta Hotels by Marriott and Copthorne Hotel Newcastle just 10km from the airport, ensuring easy access for travellers. Each airport provides various transportation options to facilitate seamless journeys to Kelso.
The Kelso info point: What you need to know
Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kelso, Scotland, United Kingdom |
| Population | Approximately 6,500 |
| Main Attractions | Kelso Abbey, Floors Castle, Kelso Racecourse |
| Historical Significance | Kelso Abbey, founded in 1128, was one of the most influential monastic sites in Scotland |
| Outdoor Activities | Fishing, hiking, golfing, horse riding |
| Local Cuisine | Haggis, Scottish salmon, traditional Scottish dishes |
| Annual Events | Kelso Civic Week, Kelso Races, Borders Book Festival |
| Transportation | Nearest airports: Edinburgh Airport (approximately 50 miles away) |
Frequently asked questions
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