The Tweed Valley dominates the interest here, along with the famous ruined 12th century abbeys at Kelso, Jedburgh, Dryburgh and Melrose. Other attractions include Sir Walter Scott’s mansion at Abbotsford and grand stately homes such as Floors Castle, Manderston, Paxton and Mellerstain House. The area is still a major producer of quality textiles which you can buy locally. The major towns celebrate their turbulent past in the Common Ridings, when local people dress up in period costume and ride out to check the burgh boundaries.