Kelso self catering holiday cottages, Scotland

In the heart of the Scottish Borders, we have three one-bedroom cottages which were created during 1999-2001 by conversion of a long stone barn. Each cottage is light and airy with plenty of space. From the dining area of the living room, there is direct, level access to a south-facing conservatory with views across the secluded garden, river and the Tweed valley to the Cheviot hills and the border between Scotland and England.

Each cottage is generously equipped for 2-4 people for self catering. For those who require them, we can provide additional beds for each cottage.

All of the rooms are on the same level and reached from the car park without any step up or down. Cars can approach close to the main entrance of each cottage for loading. There is a large, private car park adjacent to the cottages.

Each cottage has electrical heating throughout which is supplemented by a wood-burning stove in the living room. We will lay the fire and light it on request or at an arranged time so that there is a bright glow to welcome you on your arrival or on return from an outing. We provide a supply of firewood in the living room. The cottages are well insulated and can be maintained warm in the coldest weather without any extra charge for fuel or electricity.

Cycling

Walks

Horse riding

Golf

Fishing

Gardens

Various events

Workshops.

Walkers and cyclists are especially welcome here. We have a secure store for cycles and each cottage has a heated drying cupboard. A washing machine and a tumble drier are available on-site.

Walking: In addition to the possibilities for short walks in the immediate area, there are walks starting at the site. Although spectacular in places, the Borders countryside is not intimidating and there is a wide choice of walking of all levels of difficulty. The region has less rain and more dry, sunny weather than do the more western parts of Britain.

Cycling: Cycling is a particular pleasure on the network of quiet lanes around the cottages. In the hills are many tracks which can be cycled by those with the necessary stamina and equipment. In Glentress forest, there are extensive cycling tracks separate from walking paths and mountain bikes can be hired from the Hub at the main entrance to the forest. We can help with information about longer cycle routes.

workshops

Hand stitched Gorgeous Gardens (May - £75): Combine the fun elements of stencilling and printing with the relaxation of hand stitching. Use the tutor's stencils and printing blocks with acrylic or fabric paints to make backgrounds then translate these fabrics with easy stitches into a garden themed embroidery. Finished work could be used for cushions, panels, bags or book covers.

Designing with the Greatest of Confidence (June - £130): This creative course will teach you how to take an image which inspires you to a cross stitch or canvas work project of your own with guidance from Sally in choosing colour schemes, fabrics and threads. A visit to the wonderful needlework collection at Mellerstain House, just 3 miles from Burnbrae, will provide inspiration for design. Return to Burnbrae to plan, print and begin to stitch your creation. Whether your taste is traditional or contemporary, whether you are a novice to art and embroidery or experienced, you will find a treasure of design knowledge, artistic tricks and myths quashed! All materials (art and needlework) required for the workshop will be provided. Students will have the use of digital camera, laptop, printer, scanner, photocopier (or tracing /graph paper if preferred), all relevant computer software. Price includes fee for entrance to Mellerstain House and guide book

Caskets (July £85): Medieval caskets provide images of richly ornamental surfaces mixing patinas of metallics, colours and pattern. These will be the inspiration to create a stitched casket that will reflect these qualities. We will incorporate hand and machine techniques to achieve this. Students should have a working knowledge of their sewing machine.

Surfaces to Stitch and Dye (Sep £85): Explore the possibilities of stitch, dye and colour. Learn how dye responds to different fabrics and fibres as well as building glorious surfaces both with hand and/or machine stitch. This course will cover a range of different ideas, techniques and processes from composition, use of stitch to build surfaces and textures and finally the addition of colour through use of dye.

Mixed Media, Metal and More (Oct - £85): We will explore the many types of metallic detail to be found in contemporary stitched textiles from metallic paint (stamps and stencils) to lurex and other fabrics. With a collage of painted, transfer dyed and acrylic materials, students will create exciting surfaces where metallic materials are added. A piece of wire-form will be included for use in either a 3 dimensional installation or an ‘off the wall’ textile piece.

Line as a Journey (Nov - £85): For experienced embroiderers willing to spend time on preparations for the workshop to inform the work and give it a personal slant. The focus will be on line as a powerful and essential force in design which, when used well, can visually enhance and strengthen work. This very basic element, line, needs to be re-visited occasionally, even by the most seasoned artist, in order to see it in a fresh light. Jean will challenge you with initial experimental starting points which could reveal a range of interesting possibilities and lead you to think of totally new applications for your personal work.

Embroidered Metalwork Sampler (Nov £85): The course will be an experimental and creative insight into gold and metal work. This will give the opportunity to use all kinds of gold and metal threads as well as other metal materials worked within a sampler. Techniques covered will include laid work couching, cut purl work, chip work, Pearl purl, plate, mesh, foil, etc.

Thairn Cottage (Sleeps 2-3): The spacious living room has electric heating, plus a wood-burning stove, hi-fi, tv, DVD, a large, south-facing window and direct access to the conservatory. The kitchen is fully equipped, including fridge-freezer, combination oven, and hob.

The bedroom has a king size bed and plenty of space for an additional, single bed (which we provide if required). The bedroom also has a double wardrobe, dressing table and ample storage space.

The extra bed can alternatively be used in the living room and easily be stored in a cupboard during the day. The bathroom has a full size bath and walk-in shower, as well as wash basin and toilet.

Begrum Cottage (Sleeps 2-4): Begrum can sleep 4, using the bed-settee in the spacious living room. There is a built-in wardrobe off the living room too. The living room has electric heating, plus a wood-burning stove, hi-fi, tv, DVD, a large, south-facing window and direct access to the conservatory.

The kitchen is fully equipped, including fridge-freezer, combination oven, and hob. The bedroom has twin beds. There is also a double wardrobe and a dressing table & stool. The bathroom has a shower over the bath.

Mungo's Well Cottage (Sleeps 2): The spacious living room has electric heating, plus a wood-burning stove, hi-fi, tv, DVD, a large, south-facing window and direct access to the conservatory. The kitchen is fully equipped, including fridge-freezer, combination oven, and hob.

The bathroom has a shower over the bath and a handle on the wall to assist stepping into the bath. The bedroom has twin beds which can also be zipped & linked to form a king size bed. There is also a double wardrobe,a dressing table & stool, an alarm clock radio and a hair dryer.

Disabled access: Each of our cottages is on one level with no steps between the rooms and the car park. We welcome on our courses those who are confined to a wheelchair.

Pet friendly: Well behaved dogs are welcome with their owners in Begrum Cottage, and in the pasture adjacent to the garden. We ask that dogs be supervised at all times and are not allowed on the beds or other furniture. We have about 30 acre of pasture in which you are welcome to walk with your dog. If you wish to bring a pet, please ask before making a holiday reservation.
By Car: We are located on the A6089 about 9 miles off the A68/A697 from Edinburgh, near Kelso.