Kelso in the Scottish Borders has been named by travel experts WorldAtlas as having one of the most walkable town centres in Scotland. The historic market town was among eight locations singled out in a list published on Sunday, August 30.
Historic market town praised for its elegance
Kelso is situated where the River Tweed and River Teviot meet, approximately 44 miles from Edinburgh. It is known for landmarks such as the ruins of the 12th century Kelso Abbey, the historic Kelso Bridge, and the nearby Floors Castle.
The town is centred around The Square, the largest cobbled town square in Scotland. Previously a major market place dating back to the Middle Ages, The Square features highlights such as the Kelso Bull Ring, where bulls were once tethered on market days, and the Category B listed Town Hall.
WorldAtlas highlights attractions
WorldAtlas praised Kelso for having "one of the most elegant" town centres in the country, as well as its various attractions and landmarks that can be easily reached on foot. Among those highlighted are Kelso Abbey and Floors Castle, with the latter dating back to the 1700s.
WorldAtlas stated: "Kelso is a gorgeous historic market town located in the Scottish Borders. It is known for having one of the most elegant walkable town centres in Scotland. Sir Walter Scott even called it 'the most beautiful if not the most romantic village in Scotland.'"
The travel experts added: "The town is centred around The Square, which is considered the largest market square in Scotland. Around The Square, visitors can admire Georgian architecture, browse independent shops, and explore historic ruins. Just two minutes from the Square is Kelso Abbey."
Other walkable towns named
Elsewhere, Aberdour along the south coast of Fife was also included on the list. The picturesque village, home to around 1,700 people, offers views out to the island of Inchcolm and Edinburgh beyond.
WorldAtlas praised Aberdour for its sea views, Victorian architecture, and history. Landmarks singled out include Aberdour Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and is believed to be one of the oldest stone castles in Scotland.
The full list of the eight most walkable town centres in Scotland according to WorldAtlas is: St Andrews, Aberdour, Plockton, Kelso, Inverness, Haddington, Moffat, and Kirkwall.
