Jedburgh is the largest town in the Scottish Borders which lies on a tributary of the River Teviot, roughly 48 miles from Edinburgh. This traditional town holds no shortage when it comes to picturesque landscapes, incredible architecture and a fascinating blend of rich history. The town’s central attraction, Jedburgh Abbey, a magnificent ruin which stands as a testament to Jedburgh’s enduring heritage.
Additionally, the town is described as a walker’s dream thanks to a host of trails taking explorers across Jedburg’s endless lush hills and valleys with a town centre offering charming streets filled with quirky shops, and cozy eateries. But it’s Jedburgh’s location that’s garnered this unsuspecting Scottish haven its most credibility even earning it infamy as its only 10 miles north of the England-Scotland border.
Its ideal location near this border saw the town of Jedburgh being the scene of a host of conflicts over many years.
In fact, up until the 17th century, the town was often in the midst of national battles, increasing Jedburgh’s historical significance as being a frontier town, renowned for its cross-border activities.
Jedburgh Abbey is truly the town’s most iconic feature, dating all the way back to 1138 after King David I founded it with its red sandstone ruins still standing today.
King David I chose this site as an abbey and often used for a religious ceremony that when the sun rose on or near the spring equinox, two sticks would be placed in the ground in order to correctly align the high altar and west end of the abbey.
Although Jedburgh Castle and Mary Queen of Scots may be demolished today it still stands as a reminder of the sheer amount of history here with the castle playing a significant role in the town’s history.
Equally so did Mary Queen of Scots, who stayed in Jedburgh’s house back in 1566 and is today a visitor center showcasing her fascinating life.
Jedburgh’s one-of-a-kind history is commemorated by a trail of blue plaques all giving nod to the countless people, events and buildings that hold so much history and allows visitors the chance to explore the town’s incredibly rich history.
A short drive from Jedburgh and you’ll find Monteviot Gardens and is a Scottish hidden gem with beautifully landscaped gardens with views across the River Teviot all surrounded by a historic country house and is a must for nature lovers.
Visiting this captivating town in spring has been described as the best time and brings the best weather for outdoor activities and with the countryside blooming with wildflowers, and local gardens at their most vibrant, Jedburgh is the ideal UK spot this May.
“A truly unique place that is effectively the actual border between England and Scotland with beauty and history everywhere,” wrote one review on TripAdvisor.
Adding: “This town is so so pretty with countless spots to admire the views which on a fine or clear day are spectacular and beautiful.”
With another adding: “It’s very symbolic as being the border between England and Scotland with its beauty and activities here making it one of the best Scottish towns to experience.”