Nestled amongst the caress of the River Tweed, Coldstream in Scotland is a small burgh with lots to do. The town saddles the edge of Scotland and England, making it a great place with many things to do in Coldstream – a perfect way to start your Scottish Borders journey if you’re arriving from the country’s south.
This part of the region is filled with incredible history, from eloping couples and runaway marriages to the Tweed valley and Coldstream regiment. It also acts as an excellent place to stop off on your way to Edinburgh or Glasgow, so even if you’re staying a night or two at one of the superb catering cottages, you can make the most of this popular centre.
Things to do in Coldstream
Whether you want to dive into the history of the Coldstream Guards, explore the bountiful nature parks near Coldstream, or discover the many castles that sit close to it, Coldstream has you covered!
This wonderfully quaint town is filled with surprising attractions and can cater to a wide selection of interests, so see our guide for the top things to do in Coldstream.
Coldstream Museum
The best way to get to know Coldstream is by coming to see the Coldstream Museum, neatly situated on the headquarters of General Monck in the town market square before he marched to restore the Stuart Monarchy in 1660.
The Coldstream Museum goes in-depth about the region’s history, such as being the home of the Coldstream Regiment in the British Army. You can see the foot guards’ uniforms, learn about King James IV, and much more!
Wark on Tweed Castle
The ruins of Wark on Tweed Castle are equally intriguing and mysterious.
It was initially built in 1136 but was rebuilt multiple times throughout the centuries. Wark Castle neatly sits on a natural monument, with an overgrown coat that truly gives it the look of an ancient castle.
Explore Hirsel Estate
Embrace nature at the Hirsel Estate, commonly known as the Hirsel & Homestead Museum.
Open all year round, the estate is an excellent day out for the family and has stunning trails that lead around the north bank of the River Tweed and into Dundock Wood. Cap the day off with a visit to the museum for a bout of crafting, tea-drinking, and learning!
Henderson Park
The beautiful Henderson Park is instantly recognisable with its flower border and verdant park grounds.
Come and visit this village park, and you’ll find an expansive place that accommodates a wide array of activities from picnicking to football – what more could you ask for on a brilliant summer day? Don’t miss the Coldstream Guards monument either!
Etal Castle
A short trip east from Coldstream, you’re bound to bump into the ruins of Etal Castle.
This historic site is the ideal location for a family day in the Scottish Borders, where you can learn how this castle fell to the forces of James IV in the mid-14th century. Nearby places also have astounding pieces of history to fill up the day with!
Coldstream Bridge
On the east end of Coldstream sits the Coldstream Bridger, one of the finest bridges spanning the River Tweed.
At the lowest point of the hill, the Coldstream Bridge emerges and spans wide, with a thick wooden reinforcement that gives the bridge a unique and sturdy design as your cross over to Scotland.
Twizel Castle
Come and see a crucial piece of the Battle of Flodden on the river bend of Till.
Coldstream lies just south of this ruined castle, so consider visiting it as part of your day out while you’re travelling and surveying the area’s history. Twizel Castle is yours to explore, so don’t miss out!
Enjoy the River Tweed
Coldstream sits on the north side of the River Tweed, a natural border between Scotland and England.
The river carves a route through Scotland and offers many things to do: You can spend some time walking along the curving riverbank, go fishing with locals, or just enjoy the serenity of the river’s wildlife!
Twizel Bridge
Back in the time of the Tudors, the sturdy Twizel bridge still stands after many centuries of turbulent history.
Built in 1511, it was the largest single-span bridge of the time, connecting town to town along the Scottish border. See this magnificent bridge along your route to Coldstream!
Hirsel Golf Club
This beautiful golf course is tucked away in the centre of the Hirsel Estate, perfect to practise a bout of golf on.
Enjoy 18 great holes near the village of Coldstream near the base of the Cheviot Hills, with stunning views and more events to discover on their website.
Alec Douglas-Home Statue
Come and see the commemorative statue of Alec Douglas-Home in Coldstream!
After he retired from Parliament, Alex Douglas-Home was a prominent member of the Coldstream community until he died in 1995. The town gave this notable London figure a statue at The Hirsel, so make sure to stop by and say hi!
Norham Castle
Another mighty artefact of the Battle of Flodden, Norham Castle, is an English heritage castle you can’t miss out on!
This grand castle sits as one of the finest sights on the Scotland border with England. Take some time to see a castle that Scots tried to besiege 13 times but eventually fell to James IV.
Duddo Five Stones
One of the many hidden gems around Coldstream is hidden in the countryside – Duddo Five Stones!
Amidst a farmer’s field and stables, this historic location is a brief walk to reach while en route to Tweedmouth. A quick restoration has also brought all five of these ancient stones back to their place of origin.
Marchmont House
Proclaimed as one of Scotland’s finest mansions, the Marchmont House is one of the top attractions to put on your list while in Coldstream!
The Marchmont House is the perfect attraction for anyone who wants to dive deep into the annals of Scottish history. The House is free to enter and is well worth a trip to see!
Other Things To Do in Scottish Borders
- Things to do in Galashiels
- Things to do in Hawick
- Things to do in Kelso
- Things to do in Melrose
- Things to do in Peebles
- Things to do in Selkirk