Sir Walter Scott's Favorite View

Scott's View Public Domain (Public Domain)

This iconic view of the Scottish Borders is said to have been the favorite of the celebrated 19th century novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott.

The story goes that he paused to admire the view so often during his travels that his horses soon learned to stop at the viewpoint without command. When Scott died in 1832, his funeral procession passed the viewpoint on its way to Dryburgh Abbey (where Scott was interred), and it is said that his horses stopped out of habit, allowing their friend to have one final look at the Borders landscape he loved so dearly.

The overlook is now marked by a plinth and plaque, as well as several benches for those pilgrims traveling in Scott’s footsteps who wish to pause and absorb the definitive view of the Scottish Borders.

Know Before You Go

From the B6404, St Boswells to Kelso road, turn off along the B6356 road, signposted Dryburgh Abbey. About one mile along this road there is a junction signposted for Scott’s View to the right. Follow this road for about 2 miles. Car Parking is available at the site. Cyclist can follow the "Yellow Trail", which is signposted, and loops around both Melrose and Dryburgh Abbeys. It will take at least a half hour to reach the summit. The grade is steep at times and the road can be quite busy.

Atlas Obscura Trips