Local Knowledge
Lots coming on local knowledge and quirky, interesting tales of this area of the Borders. Watch this space for more…….
In the meantime read about some of our local characters who frequented the Eildon Hills which lie just above Roulotte Retreat.
Eating & drinking
There are so many places to eat and drink in the area, but here are a few of our favourites….
Marmions, Melrose – a relaxed laid back bistro atmosphere with delicious food from many cultures. We especially like the dishes inspired from Turkey.
The Town House, Melrose – a contemporary restaurant with first class food and beautiful decor
Burts, Melrose – great bar suppers and restaurant
Montecassino, Melrose – Italian pizzas and much more, good family atmosphere
Chapters, Gattonside – wonderful food in a relaxed inviting atmosphere – superb desserts
The Buccleuch, St. Boswells – bar suppers both inside, in the delightful garden and in The Blue Coo Bistro
Main Street Trading, St. Boswells – bookstore and café with delicious cake and coffee. Also deli with homestore for delicious ingredients to cook up a storm in your roulotte.
Woodside Garden Cafe, Ancrum – homemade soups, baking and local produce as well as a fabulous organic garden centre and shop. Sit by the window and while the time away watching the birds which feed directly outside. Woodside now offer exquisite evening meals on Fridays at specific times of the year.
The Denholm Meet, Denholm – bistro with Italian flavours, well worth the drive with Aladdin’s Cave style antique shop upstairs.
The County Hotel, Selkirk – great coffee shop, bar food and excellent restaurant with exquisite decor. Now hosting the infamous String Jam Club, a venue for visiting musicians. Check out our facebook page for updates.
The Flat Cat, Lauder – great café and art gallery featuring local artists, do leave room for the cakes! Furniture by Tim Stead.
The Jammy Coo, Lilliesleaf – café and art gallery with friendly atmosphere in nearby village.
Oscars, Kelso – excellent food in this Borders Market Town, open evenings – try the excellent fajitas, veggy and non veg.
Damascus Drum, Hawick – excellent food from afar in a delightful bookshop atmosphere
Beanscene, Hawick – music, cinema and events, overlooking the river
Above restaurants are usually good for vegetarians too but always best to ask in advance to ensure vegetarian or vegan options are available.
As a group visiting Roulotte Retreat you may wish to organise food for a special occasion so ask Avril and Alan about excellent local caterers.
In the village
We are lucky to have excellent services coming to us in the village
- Eoin visits every morning with newspapers, bread rolls and milk. Orders can be placed by 6pm the previous evening.
- We can organise organic bags and boxes of salad, fruit, and vegetables to be delivered to your roulotte from a local supplier
- There is also a mobile fish van which visits the village.
- Mobile library
- The village hall hosts many events, including coffee mornings, community cafe, etc.
The nearest shop is the Co-op at Newtown St. Boswells, almost two miles away.
St. Boswells also offers Co-op and other local shops.
Melrose has many specialist shops, for fine foods and wines, excellent gift and clothes shops. Also many restaurants, bistros and theatre.
Galashiels offers 24 hour supermarkets as well as a variety of other shops, cinema, swimming pool
Explore all the local Border towns and villages which surround Roulotte Retreat for unusual and quality gifts made by local crafts people.
Or check out those hidden little gems en route.
Just ask us and we can guide you to many delightful places to explore.
