Peebles

This is closed for rebuilding. It's from the 16th century, acquired in 1857 by William Chambers the publisher, who had it remodelled in Baronial style. It now houses the town library and museum, and its artworks include a replica of the Elgin Marbles. The canopied war memorial in the courtyard is a striking Moorish design.

Though Kailzie is open year-round, with spring displays of snowdrops and daffodils, the main draw is the 19th-century walled garden open from April. Dogs permitted on lead. They have accommodation.

Victorian printing press, initially water-driven by lowering a wheel into the stream beneath the workshop, like an aircraft undercarriage. Visit by 90-min guided tour, 3 tours a day.

A fortified mansion from 15th century in what might be called "very very early Baronial" - it may have acted as a prototype for the later fashion. Furnished mostly in 18th century style - it was never Victorianised - and with displays on its history. There are also gardens, a walled orchard, microbrewery, and upscale accommodation.

25 hectare arboretum in the hills of the upper Tweed valley, run by the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh. The cool climate suits mountain trees and shrubs from Nepal, China and Chile, and the azaleas are a riot of colour late May / early June. Assistance dogs only.

Regular programme of theatre, stand-up, music and film.

Helpful shop does mountain bike hire and repairs. Lots of nearby bike trails, you can hire a bike and helmet for around £30 a day. Check with them for any forest trails that might be closed temporarily for logging.