Discover Galashiels

Galashiels combines historic sites, textile culture and varied trails to create a destination with many different facets. Its attractions range from a museum in a sixteenth-century building to routes along the Southern Upland Way.

Cultural history between Old Gala House and the Great Tapestry

A good starting point for exploring Galashiels is Old Gala House. The building dates from 1583 and is now a museum and gallery. It tells the story of Galashiels and its people. Admission to Old Gala House is free, making it easy to include a visit in a day that takes in other sights as well.

A different perspective on Scottish history is offered by the purpose-built centre of the Great Tapestry of Scotland, which opened in Galashiels in August 2021. The visitor experience includes interactive exhibitions and audio guides. This allows you not only to view the display but also to explore its content in greater depth. For travellers who want to combine cultural discoveries with a self-directed itinerary, this is a distinct option alongside historic Old Gala House.

Gala Mill is also part of the distinctive character of the town's history. The complex is the best-preserved of the mill complexes still standing in Galashiels. Together with Old Gala House and the centre of the Great Tapestry of Scotland, it forms a cultural trio that offers different ways of exploring the town's development.

Walking routes for short and extended days

Anyone wishing to spend time outdoors between museum visits and exhibitions can include the “Paths around Galashiels” collection. It comprises 12 walking routes ranging from 1 to 16 miles in length. This range allows for different daily itineraries: you can plan a shorter walk or make a longer hike the main experience of the day. Some of the routes follow the Southern Upland Way.

The Hike and Bike Hub provides additional guidance for active pursuits. Regular guided walks and led cycle tours are offered there, and bicycle hire is also available. This means you can plan according to whether you want to explore a route independently, take part in a guided activity or experience Galashiels by bike. The different formats make it possible to shape your holiday around peaceful cultural moments and active days without forcing every interest into a single programme.

Choosing accommodation to suit your travel plans

When looking for holiday accommodation in Galashiels, it is worth deciding first what you want to focus on. For a culture-oriented trip, Old Gala House, the Great Tapestry of Scotland and Gala Mill can be the main points of interest. Those who prefer being active can base their daily plans more around the 12 routes of “Paths around Galashiels” or the activities offered by the Hike and Bike Hub.

The Galashiels Conservation Area covers almost the entire historic valley basin of the town. This spatial character complements the individual attractions with a broader view of the town. Whether you want to get to know Galashiels primarily through its history, its trails or its guided activities, the town offers several themes from which to shape your stay.

More places to include in your travel plans

If you would like to note down additional destinations alongside Galashiels, you can also visit Ashkirk, Kelso, Gordon and Ednam. Other options include Eyemouth, Saint Boswells, Roxburgh and Traquair.

For the overarching travel overview: The Scottish Borders.