Historic Hotels in Southern Scotland: Peebles, Moffat, Lockerbie, more

Traquair. Peeblesshire

Scotland�s Oldest Continually Inhabited House

2007 was a special year at Traquair. But anywhere marking its 900th anniversary must be very special indeed.

It was in 1107 that Alexander I of Scotland signed a royal charter in the building that stood where the present house is to be found - in its early days the castle was used both as a royal hunting lodge and a place from which to issue laws and hold court. In fact, one particular document still at the house dated from 1175 concerns the founding of a hamlet that would later become the city of Glasgow we know today.

The fortunes of Traquair have mirrored times of war and peace. After the death of Alexander III in 1286, it became one of the numerous fortified towers built along the Tweed in preparation for an English invasion. And though it was briefly occupied by English troops, it returned to the crown with the accession of Robert The Bruce in 1306.

27 Scottish Kings and Queens have visited Traquair. Indeed, the cradle in which Mary Queen of Scots rocked her baby � the future James I of England � and the bed in which she slept can still be seen. Later, in 1738, the fifth Earl installed the Bear Gates at the top of the avenue � in use for only six years - which have remained shut ever since Bonnie Prince Charlie left the house for the final time: the Earl vowed never to open them again until a Stuart king was crowned in London.

Today, it is the home of Catherine, Twenty First Lady of Traquair, her husband and their three children.

Find the best deal, compare prices and read what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor

The Spread Eagle. Jedburgh

As befits the holder of the title of Scotland�s oldest continually licensed inn, The Spread Eagle has welcomed a few notable historic figures in its time. Of these perhaps Lord Darnley (who would later marry Mary Queen of Scots) and Sir Walter Scott are most worthy of mention. Fans of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards et al will also be interested to learn that the Rolling Stones are also esteemed former guests.

Online booking for the Spread Eagle is available only via LateRooms

The Kings Arms. Lockerbie

A real old travellers inn, the Kings Arms dates from the seventeenth century. Given its location it is unsurprising that it has accommodated a few famous historical names in its time. These include Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745, and Sir Walter Scott in 1813. For more information visit TripAdvisor

Friars Carse Country House Hotel. Auldgirth

Located close to the site of a 13th century Friary (hence the name) the existing house was the property of the Riddell family - friends of Robbie Burns.

Indeed, not only was he a regular guest, but it was in the hotel restaurant that the poet competed in the drinking competition he would later write in verse. Moreover, he would also regularly stay in the Burns Hermiitage which is located within the grounds. Today the hotel offers twenty one en suite bedrooms. For more information visit LateRooms

More period and historic accommodation in Southern Scotland...

Castle Douglas

The Ship Inn. Dating from the late 19th century, The Ship�s claim to fame is that it was here that Dorothy L Sayers wrote Five Red Herrings, one of her novels and stories featuring Lord Peter Wimsey. LateRooms

Creebridge

Creebridge House Hotel. Every inch the period Scottish country house. LateRooms

Gretna

Gretna Hall. Built in 1710, this hotel was originally a manor house. LateRooms

Moffat

Auchen Castle. The second of two castles, the Auchen of today was constructed in 1849. LateRooms

Annandale Arms. An award winning 250 year-old hotel at the heart of Moffat. LateRooms

Best Western Moffatt House. Constructed during the mid-1700�s, Moffat House is a Grade A listed building. LateRooms

Peebles

Barony Castle. It�s a great shame one can�t easily find out more about this impressive mansion house. After all, having been built in 1536, one would assume it had a few tales to tell. LateRooms | Expedia

Selkirk

The County Hotel. A coaching inn since the mid 18th century, The County Hotel was once the meeting place for �The Forest Club� whose members included Sir Walter Scott. Expedia

More Soon. Please bookmark us and check back.

Don�t forget... Nights In The Past now has a new group on Facebook devoted to the site and historic hotels, inns and other places to stay throughout the UK and Europe. All are welcome to join and share information.