Discover the History and Beauty of Bowhill: Top 10 Reasons to Visit in August

It’s the perfect time of year to be visiting Bowhill House and Grounds. With our House open to the public and lots of activity happening on our wider estate, we’ve gathered our top 10 reasons as to why a trip to the Scottish Borders should be on your to-do list this Summer.

Published
Bowhill House
Bowhill House

1. Stunning Architecture

Visit Bowhill House, the Scottish Borders home of the Duke of Buccleuch in August and view its architectural features and stunning interiors. Bowhill House is a magnificent country home nestled in the Borders countryside. The House blends sympathetically into the surrounding landscape. A viist will leave you in awe of the craftmanship and skills of the designers.

Interior of Bowhill

2. Fascinating History

Delve into Scotland’s rich past with Guided Tours of the House, learning about the history of Bowhill and tales of the Buccleuch family legacy. Admire the Buccleuch Art Collection, with works by Canaletto, Gainsborough, Reynolds and many more. Explore rooms with magnificent interiors led by our friendly and knowledgeable House Guides. Find out interesting facts about the building and its varied uses throughout the centuries. The tour will give you an insight into the history of the House, art and family who still live there.

Bowhill Gardens

3. Beautiful Gardens

The extensive landscape of Bowhill includes attractive garden areas only accessible in August, where you can visit as part of our House Tours.  From formal terraces to rose gardens, flower borders and a rock garden, there is plenty for gardeners and non gardeners alike to enjoy – a rare opportunity to discover garden areas usually closed to the public.

Kids fun at Bowhill

4. Fun for Kids

The Adventure Playground fort is a big favourite with children, where they can be the King or Queen of the Castle for a day. They can take a thrilling ride on the fast-flying zip wires and sweeping slides and test their skills on climbing frames. Or Mini Rangers session running throughout August let kids uncover their inner explorers as they discover the wild side of Bowhill.

Buccleuch Art Collection at Bowhill

5. Art Collection

Bowhill is home to the world-renowned Buccleuch Art Collection with works by Canaletto, Gainsborough, Reynolds and many more. The Art Collection has been created over the years by generations of the Buccleuch family and their ancestors.

At a visit to Bowhill House you can admire a selection of art masterpieces, each with stories attached to their subjects and artists. As you walk through the House, view rich and colourful tapestries that exude warmth, and complement rooms filled with fine furniture and ornamental collections.

House Tour

6. House Tours

Make the most of the House’s daily opening hours throughout August and book a Guided Tour to improve your knowledge on all things Bowhill and Buccleuch. Our Tour Guides are very knowledgeable with many facts and anecdotes to share. Tours run daily, every hour from noon to 3pm throughout August, booking in advance is highly recommended.

Old Horsebox at Playground

7. Old Kitchen/Old Horsebox

Indulge in delicious homemade goodies from The Old Kitchen, located in the Courtyard- the perfect spot for a light lunch. Or whilst you’re out and about, stop by the The Old Horsebox in the Adventure Playground for drinks, snacks and ice cream. Food outlets are open daily throughout August, serving from 10am – 5pm.

Courtyard Gallery

8. Courtyard Gallery

A dedicated space at Bowhill for temporary exhibitions, discover WASPS Selkirk as they showcase their talents over the month of August. Featuring eight unique artists all with individual styles and artistic techniques. Take the opportunity to discover and admire fascinating art work, on display in the Courtyard Gallery.

Bed Room in Bowhill Accommodation

9. Holiday Accommodation

Treat your trip to Bowhill as a holiday getaway or short break, and book one of our two holiday apartments . Located within the Courtyard Area, stay in either The Clock Tower or The Bothy apartments. These cosy properties are ideal bases for exploring Bowhill and the surrounding sights of the beautiful Scottish Borders.

Hillside Walks on Bowhill

10. Nature Trails

Make the most of long Summer days and explore the way marked trails across Bowhill Estate. From quick wanders around the lower lochs, to more challenging hikes through the woodlands and over the hillsides, there is lots to discover. Take the opportunity of going on a guided walk led by our Countryside Ranger, running exclusively throughout August. These guided walks let you imagine walking in the footsteps of the 5th Duke of Buccleuch and lead you to the magical spots found within the Victorian Designed Landscape. 

Don’t miss out this August! Discover Bowhill House and Grounds and make the most of great activities, exhibits and opportunities happening throughout August.

Opening hours to the grounds: 10am – 5pm

Guided House Tours: 12:00, 13:00, 14:00 & 15:00

Share this page: