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The Five Turrets is one of the Sunday Times top 25 recommended UK holiday cottages with enough space to comfortably accommodate eight people in four big bedrooms.
It’s a stylish self catering/exclusive use holiday home with fairytale castle good looks, set in a B-listed historic property at the heart of the Scottish Borders just an hour from Edinburgh.
Working with some of the best local businesses, it offers guests a range of exciting optional personalised packages. From a personal chef to cook for guests, in-house massage therapies and guided fishing on the nearby River Tweed, it’s covered.
The heart of the comprehensively refurbished home is the unique triple height living space, with sofas arranged around a fabulous wood burning stove, a huge dining table set up to provide commandin...The Five Turrets is one of the Sunday Times top 25 recommended UK holiday cottages with enough space to comfortably accommodate eight people in four big bedrooms.
It’s a stylish self catering/exclusive use holiday home with fairytale castle good looks, set in a B-listed historic property at the heart of the Scottish Borders just an hour from Edinburgh.
Working with some of the best local businesses, it offers guests a range of exciting optional personalised packages. From a personal chef to cook for guests, in-house massage therapies and guided fishing on the nearby River Tweed, it’s covered.
The heart of the comprehensively refurbished home is the unique triple height living space, with sofas arranged around a fabulous wood burning stove, a huge dining table set up to provide commanding views over the stunning Ettrick valley and an open kitchen to captivate the keenest cook.
An oak and glass stair leads up to the mezzanine library, stocked with hundreds of books, more sofas and a smart 49 inch TV connected to the free speedy broadband available in every room.
And when it is time to slip between the Egyptian cotton sheets, there are four warm and inviting bedrooms to choose from - two super kings (which can also be set up as twins) plus a king size and a double.
Built around 1870 in the Scottish Baronial style, this historic listed building is ideally located at the heart of the Borders in the Royal Burgh of Selkirk, with road and nearby rail links to Edinburgh to the north and England to the south.
Guests who can bear to drag themselves away from the comforts of the house will enjoy a region steeped in history and reminders of the region’s colourful past as the home of the notorious and bloodthirsty Border Reivers.
There’s some of the best hillwalking in Scotland on the doorstep and easy access to world-class cycling trails (with secure bike storage on site) and golf courses. For anglers, there’s the Tweed, while wildlife lovers have the opportunity to spot golden eagles, ospreys and red squirrels.
And if that’s all too energetic, guests can put their feet up in the garden or retire to one of the local bars and restaurants a short walk away for a bit of rest and relaxation.
House Rules
Pets not allowedKid friendlyNo smoking
Bedrooms
2 Super Kings1 King1 Double
Bathrooms
2 Full baths
Meet the host
Gethin C
Hosting since October 2018
Languages spoken: English
Response Time: Within a few hours
Interaction with guests: We live across the road from the property, so we're on hand to help you get the most out of your stay. We'll open up for you, hand over the key, show you round and guide you to the best places to go for a great break.
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This house is THE DREAM! Wonderful views, very well equipped kitchen, comfy beds and excellent showers. The mezzanine level is perfect for kids to have their own space. Love the colourful decor and it was really special to be welcomed by a roaring fire and goodies including delicious homemade bread. Can’t wait to come back.
Visited October 2022
Written 18 October 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Alex F
Glasgow, United Kingdom42 contributions
Anniversary with family
Our daughters had booked for the weekend so we could spend our anniversary with all the family, really wonderful house with really stunning dining and living area also great views over the hills. The bedrooms were all nice with comfortable beds. Really well equipped and has log burner for chilly nights. Is good location for exploring surrounding countryside. Would highly recommend a visit
Visited October 2022
Written 12 October 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
fruitcakeLondon
5 contributions
Absolutely wonderful stay
We had a brilliant stay at The Five Turrets. There was a welcome pack from the moment we arrived which set up the atmosphere for the rest of the trip. It's a quiet location on the Borders, there is a lot of space in the accommodation. We had a real adventure staying and there was something for our entire family. The kitchen is large, the garden is really nice (we even tried some of the apples). The piano was used extensively. We had a few questions about how things worked and they were answered promptly. Everything was easy and Gethin was super helpful and got things working asap when we didn't know how to do it. There were toiletries, kitchen bits to get you started. It was five star and the whole family was very happy.
Visited August 2022
Written 19 August 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jessica E
4 contributions
Amazing hoyse
We have just enjoyed staying for a week at the five turrets and I cannot talk positively enough about it.
The building has been restored so sympathetically. The decor is stunning. Views across the valley are stunning from the double height lounge. It is very peaceful, safe, easy to find with parking right outside. Every detail has been thought of from…. Big fresh light bedrooms, with crisp white linen, to a very well equipped immaculately clean kitchen, to super power shower and a personal collection of books to enjoy whilst there. We loved our complimentary fizz on arrival, and we even had a bag of fresh local coffee left for us to enjoy. The owners woven art adorns the walls splendidly and the colours echoed the scenery around.
If you are lucky enough to visit Bonny Scotland make this your perfect base.
Visited August 2022
Written 10 August 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Graeme1986
Glasgow, United Kingdom28 contributions
Stunning house, lovely stay
The building itself is stunning and the views from the huge windows are just beautiful. The bedrooms and living spaces look lovely and are very comfortable. The owner was so accommodating and welcoming too. Such a treat to stay here while visiting the borders!
Visited May 2022
Written 16 May 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
StuMcl
2 contributions
Five stars for Five Turrets
It is not often you take a holiday property that ticks every box and genuinely leaves you without any minor niggles that might detract from you giving the full five star review. The Five Turrets absolutely achieves this and more.
A few of our favourite things from our recent "siblings week".....
* the beautiful open plan kitchen/living room area which meant that everyone was included all of the time;
* the views from that living room on beautiful December mornings whilst the wood burning stove roared in to life;
* the mezzanine floor with sitting area which meant the large screen TV was there when you wanted it but not "automatically turned on" and therefore detract from actual conversation;
* the bedrooms - super comfy beds and bedding. None of the usual sibling "fighting" over who gets which room;
* all the quirky finishing touches throughout the property and the high end appliances that meant there was nothing that meant you were left thinking "if only it had a ...... ";
* the fact the property was a short walk into town to the shops/restaurants - a particular shout out to the local butcher shop and the Fleece restaurant.
After last year when we couldn't have our usual "sibling Christmas night" we decided to have a one-off week away in December. We are so glad we did - so much so we are just about to book up the Five Turrets again for the same week next year.
A special mention to the owner Gethin. He couldn't have been any more helpful or responsive to any questions we had in the lead up to going away or during our stay.
Visited December 2021
Written 10 December 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Geri
Glasgow, United Kingdom12 contributions
Brilliant Rental
Wow! As this was a staycation we wanted something a little quirky! We loved this accommodation. Myself, husband, mum, dad along with our 2 kids (15/10).
On arrival some lovely homemade bread, milk, bottle of Prosecco and local coffee. Honestly a really lovely touch. Towels, beds and utilities all clean and excellent. Actually loved my bed as so comfy. Mezzanine favourite with the boys as the footie was on. I could sit with my mum in the living area and still feel part of their excitement.
My husband and daughter made pasta for us one night taking advantage of the excellent kitchen facilities, pasta machine a real hit - something we wouldn’t normally do. Everything and more within the kitchen.
Showers amazing along with the nice touches of toiletries.
Location - great. Bus stop right outside. Shops short walk away.
On their website advertised a 1/2 fishing day. We booked this and the kids had a great time. Really recommend Dave was great with the kids - daughter was the only one to catch a fish which made her day.
Popped over to Eyemouth too for a day out. Central to Kelso, Galashiels and Montrose.
Overall - great holiday accommodation- plenty of room if you still need a wee bit of space for yourself.
Visited June 2021
Written 3 July 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The Five Turrets
Delighted you had such a good time, you were delightful guests. Great to hear that the pasta machine is being put to good use. Hope to see you again.
Written 2 August 2021. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ClaireLouiseGilbert
Tenterden, United Kingdom3 contributions
The perfect getaway
Just Wow! I think that covers The Five Turrets perfectly! We had a fantastic stay this week and the weather was perfect too. It was our first visit to the Scottish Borders and we will definitely be back. The Five Turrets has everything you could possibly require and all top quality; all of the online photos were exactly what you get. We felt at home straightway and it was the ideal place to relax. We are a family of five with two adults and three children aged 9, 13 and 18 and it was perfect for us all. Selkirk has all the shops for your needs if you don't feel like travelling further afield. The River walk was lovely as was the walk around the Loch. Our favourite town that we visited was Peebles and we did the four mile Cardrona forest trail first which was beautiful. All in all, we would highly recommend The Five Turrets.
Visited May 2021
Written 5 June 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The Five Turrets
Glad you enjoyed it and thank you for the lovely review. Hope to see you again.
Written 2 August 2021. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nick A
Rugby, United Kingdom102 contributions
Fantastic location and stay
A long weekend in Selkirk was made magical by a stay at The Five Turrets. The other reviews capture the building perfectly, but to repeat, the rooms are well apportioned with fantastic furniture and plenty of plates, cups, glasses and utensils to complete the stay.
We arrange for a chef to come to the house and cook for us. A perfect meal which started off the weekend in the best way. We also arranged a visit to a local gin distillery. Both recommended by the owners.
Thoroughly recommended.
Visited September 2020
Written 21 September 2020. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Gellhorn
4 contributions
Luxurious fairytale Borders' bolthole
The Five Turrets is pure joy.
First, the 'big picture' stuff:
*The photographs do not really do this place justice. The space is much grander than it appears online.
*The tower in the top bedroom is a fabulous fairytale quirk. The cathedral height ceiling gives the living space an air of grandeur.
*The location is a two minute walk from Selkirk's charming town centre but only five minutes from a beautiful park, loch and stately home. There is spectacular scenery and wildlife on the doorstep yet it is close to civilisation with superfast broadband.
*The kitchen and bathrooms are modern and perfectly appointed.
*The central heating works and there is also a fabulous fire. Wood is supplied.
*Every one of the four bedrooms ranges from huge to generous. We slept on the finest Egyptian cotton sheets in the most comfortable beds imaginable.
*The mezzanine library is pure perfection and boasts a wide array of books and a giant TV and comfy sofas. The double height ceiling gives the living space a palatial feel.
Then there are the small details:
*One of the owners is a textile designer and each room has beautiful fabrics and wallhangings that are modern but nod to classic Scottish style. NO tartan.
*An amazing loaf of freshly baked bread on arrival and a some essentials.
*Did I mention the Egyptian cotton sheets?
*A properly tuned piano in a stunning music room as you walk in through the front hallway that allowed my son to keep up his practice (no excuses!)
*Professional photos of local beauty spots and close ups of nature taken by the owner adorn every wall.
*EVERY conceivable kitchen utensil you could ever need is here. (This is no holiday home offering with manky breadboard and blunt knives) the kit was better than I have at home). Want to bake a cake? No problem.
*Beautifully scented shower wash and shampoo.
*Fluffy towels.
*That mezzanine space again.
*Watching the sunset as you sit at the vast wooden dining table.
Pops of colour brighten but don't overwhelm the space.
This is a stunningly renovated heritage property that has had an injection of modern luxury.
We did not want to leave our fairytale Borders' bolthole.
Visited March 2020
Written 4 May 2020. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The Five Turrets sits on a hillside in Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, with splendid views of the hills opposite.
The town has restaurants, bars and coffee shops on the doorstep, along with a couple of supermarkets and a good range of local shops selling locally-sourced produce.
The town sits amid striking scenery in the Southern Uplands. There’s some of the best hillwalking in Scotland on the doorstep and easy access to world-class cycling trails and golf courses. For anglers, there’s the Tweed, while wildlife lovers have the opportunity to spot eagles, ospreys and red squirrels. It's a region steeped in history and its castles are reminders of its colourful past as the home of the notorious and bloodthirsty Border Reivers.
Getting around
The A7 runs north to Edinburgh and south to England. Trains run from Galashiels and Tweedbank up to Edinburgh, where there are connections to the national rail network. Edinburgh airport offers good connections to the US, China and European destinations, as well as London and other UK airports.
There are good cycle routes throughout the Borders and walking trails including the Southern Upland Way pass nearby.
Access
Car advised
How to get there
Selkirk is an hour south of Edinburgh, in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
The main A7 between England and Scotland runs through the town and the Borders railway line runs from nearby Tweedbank up to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh airpot is the nearest international airport and is just over an hour's drive away: we can arrange a local taxi to collect your group if you contact us in advance.
Activities nearby
Fishing spots availableGolf course (within 30 mins drive)Horse riding facilities
Things to know
Check in / out timings
Check in after 3 pm • Check out by 10 am
Cancellation policy
100% refund within 24 hours after booking (provided the stay is at least 60 days away).
100% refund* if you cancel at least 2 weeks before check-in
No refund available once booking is confirmed
About this property
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