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Welcome to the South of Scotland
From superstars to spectacular success in this year’s Thistle Awards event, the south of Scotland is in bouyant mood.
We are delighted to report on Outlander star Sam Heughan's move into the distillery business - announcing the Galloway Distillery at Newton
He's also pledged his support to promote the region to a global audience and we look forward to working with him.
There's a strong south of Scotland team heading for Glagow in November to compete in the national Thistles awards for tourism and the Explore team joins with others to wish them every success.
South of Scotland Magazine
Events
Here to help you plan ahead
Whether its a day trip, a weekend break or an extended stay, the South of Scotland offers something for everyone. And it’s essential to plan ahead.
Explore the South of Scotland Magazine, in association with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance, is your perfect companion introducing you to places of interest, activity breaks and a look at what’s coming up for the two months ahead.
Our magazine is produced by experienced journalists, writers and photographers to help you make the most of your stay in a truly remarkable part of the world.
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Halloween night
Step into a world of eerie fun at Drumlanrig and Bowhill.
Carlisle
15 - 35 Thistle success stories
South of Scotland Thistle Awards for 2025
38 Weather watch alert River Tweed Commission respomds to waether impacts along the River Tweed
News of Sam Heughan’s investment to develop Newton Stewart’s Crafty Distillery into the Galloway Distillery, leveraging his Sassenach brand, Outlander story and global profile, is a hugely significant development for the South of Scotland’s visitor economy.
Sam and his business partner Alex Norouzi are hugely committed to Galloway and the South of Scotland.
Their investment is a real celebration of D&G and is testament to their energy and optimism for our destination.
Sam Heughan and Center Parcs: Tourism takes off in the South of Scotland
quality jobs and help drive community and economic benefit.
Our collective South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy, launched last March, sets out how we will increase the value of our visitor economy by £1bn and support 20,000 jobs.
Next stop Hawick and Carlisle
A crucial priority in growing our visitor economy in a sustainable way, is increasing the proportion of higher-spending international visitors to the region; this is what will create and sustain quality yearround jobs for our communities to thrive.
The Galloway Distillery will do exactly this: it will provide a world-class visitor experience with genuine trans-Atlantic reach.
Just as a rising tide lifts all boats, by working strategically and collaboratively with Sam, we can ensure this investment supports dozens of other businesses and communities across the South of Scotland.
The Galloway Distillery announcement,
which will do such good in Dumfries and Galloway, comes almost a year after the Center Parcs announcement, which will be so game-changing for the Scottish Borders. Both sides of the region have really exciting new investments which, each in their own way, will bring in new visitors, create
It would have been easy to scoff at this scale of ambition but, here we are, with 33% (£250m) growth in the value of tourism and a 14% increase in jobs in the last two years.
Between our partnerships with Sam Heughan and the Center Parcs investment, we now have a clear sense of how this growth will further accelerate in the coming chapter.
Ultimately, we will only succeed in our ambition if we continue to think strategically, work collaboratively and act decisively.
We invite all tourism businesses in the South of Scotland to get involved by, if they haven’t already, joining the SSDA (www. ssdalliance.com/join/membership).
Scotland Starts Here!
David Hope-Jones OBE, CEO, South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) / Scotland Starts Here
Celebrations to mark the 10th annivrsary of the Borders Railway - reuniting the region to Edinburgh and Midlothian - culminated with an event at the Tempest Brewery, another Tweedbank success story.
Partner organisations, campaigners and councillors and MSP Fiona Hyslop, who sits on the Economy Committee in the Scottish Parliament and is the Deputy Convenor of the Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee, gathered to mark the occasion.
They watched a specially commissioned film documenting the railway's positive impact on the Borders region.
The occasion capped a programme highlighting the highlighting the benefits the railway has delivered since its opening - and underlined the drive to do more.
Leader of Scotish Borders Council, Cllr Euan Jardine, said: "If anyone was in any doubt f the success of the railway, they would be put to rest after listening to the edidence given by contributors to the Borders Railway film.
"We extend ourheartfelt gratitude to evryone whose unwavering support, foresiht nd tireless campaigning made the return of the railway to the Borders a reality.
As e celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead with great anticipation, as the planned extension south thrugh Hawick to Carlisle promises even greater conectivity and opportunity for the region.
"From the Borders' perspective we must remember we are not in the middle of nowhere, we are in the middle of the counrtry. We are the heartbeat of the UK," he said.
It is generally agreed that extending the line to Carlisle would bring huge benefits for the tourism sector in the South of Scotland.
Funding has been approved for a Borders Railway extension feasibility study, with the Scottish and UK governments contributing up to £10 million through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal. Putting the Borders back on track (top l to r): Peter Heubeck, Campaign for Borders Railway, SBC councillor David Parker, Fiona Hyslop, SBC councillor Euan Jardine and Watson McAteer, SBC convener.
Get set for Spooky times at Drumlanrig Castle...
Step into a world of eerie fun this October as Drumlanrig Castle & Country Estate hosts its annual Halloween Trail, a frighteningly fun day out for all ages.
Explore the spooky trail, team up with the Drumlanrig Detectives to solve creepy clues, tackle fun games and challenges, and top it all off by picking your perfect pumpkin in the picturesque pumpkin patch.
From Saturday, October 11through to Sunday, October 26, young detectives can join Monty, Queenie, and their trusty sidekick Grog the Dog as they uncover the secrets of Drumlanrig’s spooky trail. Packed with creepy clues, thrilling games, and fang-tastic photo opportunities, this year’s trail promises an unforgettable family experience.
Someone has stolen the treasure, and the Drumlanrig Detectives need your help to crack the case.
Armed with a detective scroll and pencil, families will follow a spooky trail through the gardens, encountering eerie props, mini challenges, and puzzles along the way, collecting clues to reveal which mischievous villain is behind the crime.
The adventure ends at the Pumpkin Patch, where little detectives can grab a wheelbarrow and pick the perfect pumpkin to decorate at the Larchwood Cabin or take home for carving.
And the fun doesn’t stop there, your ticket also gives you full access to the Adventure Playground and Castle Gardens. Little ones will love zooming down the flying foxes, climbing the towers before whizzing down twisting slides, and enjoying plenty more swinging, sliding, and exploring.
While the Halloween Trail takes you through part of the Castle Gardens behind the playground, there’s so much more to discover beyond. Wander across the lawns to uncover hidden heather huts, towering trees, and golden autumnal plants in all their seasonal glory.
Youngsters will receive a Snack Box as part of their ticket, including a drink, piece of fruit and packet of crisps. Halloween Children's Craft Workshops will take place between Tuesday, Oct 14 and Tuesday, October 21.
Booking Information
What's On | Events at Drumlanrig Castle
Website: https://www.drumlanrigcastle.co.uk/ Self Catering Accommodation: https://www.drumlanrigcastle.co.uk/stay/ Tickets are limited and must be booked in advance. Secure your place at: Book Halloween at Drumlanrig
...and a fun filled Halloween beckons at Bowhill
Bowhill House and Grounds near Selkirk will once again welcome families for its much-loved Halloween Trail and Pumpkin Patch this autumn.
Following the success of last year’s events, extra dates have been added, along with a brand-new after-dark experience.
Families are invited to set out on a spooky mission through the historic grounds to banish the witches. The Halloween Trail runs on select dates from October 18 to November 2, guiding visitors along an enchanting path filled with eerie surprises and curious characters.
With the candle relit, the witches have returned in search of children’s souls and the power they bring. To stop them, visitors must keep the spellbook hidden and send the witches away for good.
Once the trail is complete, families will discover the Pumpkin Patch. Children can collect a mini wheelbarrow and hunt for the perfect pumpkin to take home or decorate in the Courtyard. Each child ticket includes one pumpkin, ready to be transformed into a spooky creation.
A full day of family fun awaits with the adventure playground, soft play, crafts in the Victorian Kitchen, and stunning autumn walks through the Bowhill landscape. Spooky cinema screenings will take place throughout the day and are free of charge, though pre-booking is required due to limited spaces. The Old Kitchen Café will serve warming drinks and light lunches, while the popular marshmallow toasting station returns to the Horsebox in the playground.
New for this year, Bowhill introduces a special evening event for those who dare.
On October 31, visitors can experience a ‘Trick or Treat’ version of the trail from 4.30pm to 6.30pm, with sweets to collect along the way and the chance to choose a pumpkin by moonlight.
Guests can warm up with marshmallow toasting, hot chocolate, or spooky hot dogs, before settling in for an evening cinema screening from 6.30pm to 8pm, complete with snacks from the Old Kitchen Café.
Pre-booking is essential
Tickets are priced at £12 per child, which includes entry for two accompanying adults. Annual pass holders receive a £2 discount. Cinema screenings are free but must be reserved in advance. Event dates are October 18–20, October 24–26, and October 31 to November 2.
Tickets for the Trick or Treat evening on 31 October are £17 per child, with two adults admitted free of charge. Annual pass holders receive a £2 discount.
For more information, visit www.bowhillhouse.co.uk, follow @BowhillHouse on Facebook and Instagram, or call the Bowhill team on 01750 22204.
Sam becomes a celebrity ambassador for South of Scotland
It's a partnership that's become the toast of the South of Scotland's tourism sector.
Leading tourist organisation the South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) has joined forces with actor, producer and author Sam Heughan to promote the region to a global audience.
The star of the internationally acclaimed Outlander series has now added entrepreneur to his list of achievements after formally launching the Galloway Distillery (formerly the Crafty Distillery) at Newton Stewart.
His starring role as Jamie Fraser in the Starz drama series Outlander (new series on the way) has earned him a string of top awards including the People's Choice Award for Favorite Cable Sci-Fi/Fantasy TV Actor and the Saturn Award for Best Actor on Television.
Sam, who was born and raised in Galloway, a region steeped in the tradition of producing world class gin and whisky.
He and his Outlander co-star Graham McTavish co-wrote Clanlands: Whisky, Warfare, and a Scottish Adventure Like No Other, that reached number one on the New York Times' Best Seller List in 2020.
The same year Heughan launched his own whisky brand, The Sassenach (named after his Outlander character's nickname for his wife, Claire), that went on to win consecutive double golds in the 2020 and 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Now he's gone one better - taking over the Crafty Distillery and inheriting its acclaimed Hills and Harbour brand, together with outstanding reputation for excellence since its opening in 2017.
Working with SSDA, Sam and his team are now working to expand the visitor offering - currently attracting over 20,000 visitors a year.
"Galloway is an undiscovered gem and I want to shine a light on it. The Outlander effect has brought people to Scotland but there's more to do," said Sam.
A major target for the new team will be to promote the South of Scotland to a Northern American audience.
SSDA CEO David Hope-Jones responded: "Having Sam Heughan and the Sasanach brand officially based here in the region is going to super-charge our work. It gives us a totemic asset at the heart of Dumfries and Galloway that will inspire higher-spending visitors, especially those from North America.
"Our mission is to work collaboratively and strategically to maximise the wider econmic benefits. To do this we need to build an attractive, coordinated visitor offering linked to high-spending international markets."
Scotland Starts Here
We’re hugely excited to welcome this game-changing investment for the South of Scotland, as Sam Heughan returns to Galloway.
I have no doubt that the Galloway Distillery is going to fast become a must-visit attraction, at the very heart of our collective destination brand Scotland Starts Here.
The South of Scotland’s Responsible Tourism Strategy is going to grow our visitor economy by £1bn: key to this working collaboratively and strategically to attract higher-spending international visitors who contribute the most to job creation and local community prosperity.
Having Sam Heughan and the Sassenach brand officially based here is going to super-charge this work: it gives a totemic asset at the heart of Dumfries and Galloway which will inspire higher-spending visitors, especially from North America.
By working together, we will use this investment to really super-charge economic regeneration across the region, creating quality year-round jobs and supporting communities to thrive.
We are hugely grateful to Sam and Alex for their vision, passion and commitment to this most beautiful part of Scotland.
David Hope-Jones OBE, CEO of
South of Scotland Destination
Alliance
(SSDA)
Flying high at Restoring Upland Nature
A groundbreaking nature conservation programme is celebrating celebrity approval for its work.
Top wildlife ambassador, Sir David Attenborough, has marked a new UK conservation milestone by naming the first eaglet to fledge from the nest of a golden eagle translocated by a groundbreaking charity project in the south of Scotland.
The news capped success at this year's golden eagle festival held in Moffat, the new home of Restoring Upland Nature (RUN).
Describing the landmark moment as a “wonderful achievement,” the globally renowned broadcaster and UN Champion of the Earth christened the fledgling (right) Princeling.
The name symbolises new hope for the restoration of a previously diminished and declining population of golden eagles in the region.
Princeling’s arrival brings the number of golden eagles soaring in southern skies to a new record high - over 50 - the most seen in the region for three centuries.
Some of eagles were recently spotted as far south as northern England, where there have been no resident golden eagles since 2016.
translocated eagles can integrate well into native populations to breed successfully.
"This brings renewed hope to our ambition to reverse biodiversity decline and ensure current and future generations across the UK, including Scotland, England and Wales, can experience that incredible sense of awe on seeing golden eagles soar.”
Sir David said: “Many congratulations to all those in Restoring Upland Nature who have brought about the fledging of a young golden eagle.”
Revealing the latest news, CEO of RUN, Dr Cat Barlow commented: “What an honour it is for Restoring Upland Nature to receive such warm recognition from Sir David Attenborough for this game-changing moment in UK conservation.
“Seeing Princeling thrive in the south of Scotland highlights that, where there are healthy ecosystems and a low risk of persecution,
RUN Chair, Michael Clarke added: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Princeling and would like to thank Sir David Attenborough, and all our partners and supporters, for helping us mark this important milestone.
"We have exciting plans to build on and extend our groundbreaking work so that other parts of the UK benefit from the return of golden eagles, but we can only do this with continued support.
"Every donation made to our charity plays a key part in helping us reach new groundbreaking milestones,” he said.
More information at ... www. goldeneaglessouthofscotland.co.uk
Green Flag Award for Wilton Lodge Park
Wilton Lodge Park in Hawick has once again been recognised as one of the country’s top green spaces with a Green Flag Award for 2025.
The awards celebrate exceptional examples of parks and greenspaces and supports the opportunities that they provide to enable exercise, improve mental wellbeing and provide safe areas for play.
Run by environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful, it acts as a benchmark for recreational outdoor space.
It is the seventh consecutive year that the park has been recognised with a Green Flag award, demonstrating its consistently high standards of maintenance and cleanliness.
In total 88 green spaces across Scotland were awarded a Green Flag for 2025. Councillor John Greenwell, Executive Member for Roads & Public Space Development, said: “It is a wonderful achievement that demonstrates the extremely high levels of
care and cleanliness that Council staff and the volunteers work tirelessly to maintain.
"Parks like these which are so meticulously maintained are a superb community facility and play such an important part in helping encourage people to enjoy the outdoors.”
Jacqui's recipe for success
Wigtown may have closed another successful chapter on its annual book festival but its growing reputation as Scotland's Book Town attracts visitors all year round.
And one of the popular ports of call is feminist bookshop ReadingLasses, where very one of the 10,000 books on her shelves is written by a woman.
The enterprise is Run by Dr Jacqui Robertson, a former scientist, lecturer and schoolteacher, who has added a special ingredient to her business –amazing home-made cakes from her own secret recipes.
They have become a hugely popular centrepiece of the bookshop’s cafe.
At the busiest times of year she starts baking at 5.30am, after which she and a small team run the shop and café during opening hours, before returning to yet more baking.
Jacqui said: “I used to visit Galloway a lot and loved to visit Wigtown – I’m an avid reader so I loved the place. ReadingLasses came up for sale in 2010 and I considered it, but the time wasn’t right. It came up again in 2015 and I decided the moment had come for my next adventure in life.
“I took over in late July and had an absolute baptism of fire when the festival took place – everything was so incredibly busy.
“I realised from the start that I would need the café to support the bookshop, but I had no experience in baking or catering. I decided I would approach it like a science project and keep experimenting until I got it right.
“To my surprise it revealed a creative side to me that I hadn’t known was there. And while I very much think I have a bookshop with café, I know some people think of it as a café with books.”
In addition to having sections which have top prizewinning books by women authors ReadingLasses has sections on art, travel, nature, science and for 18th and 19th-century women authors.
• Wigtown, a Galloway coastal town of under 1,000 people, celebrates the richness of southwest Scotland’s creative talent and heritage through its book festival - named Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival at Scotland’s national event awards, The Thistles.
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is inviting people across the south of Scotland to take part in a national conversation about heritage, encouraging them to share their perspectives and help shape how it is recognised and looked after in the future.
Scotland’s historic environment belongs to everyone – from stone circles and high streets to tenements and schools.
It may also be your local park, the venue where you saw the best gig you've ever been to, or the place you picture when you think of home.
The initiative was launched at Govan in Glasgow, a place rich in history, and one that shows the art of the possible, with communities coming together to celebrate and share heritage from medieval relics to shipbuilding heritage to venues and parks.
The public are also being invited to take part in a national survey, open until December
Heritage makes our communities special and it’s everything we inherit from the past that shapes who we are today as well as influencing our future.
"I’d love to hear about the places that matter most to you," said Elly McCrone, Director of Heritage.
"We’d like to understand what you’d like to see protected and how you’d like those places to be looked after so that we can ensure that our heritage continues to enrich our lives for generations to come," she said.
7, to share what heritage means to them.
This is the main way to get involved and help shape the future of Scotland’s historic environment.
People can also join the conversation by attending online events exploring some of the most important factors affecting heritage or by testing their general knowledge in the online quizzes.
A Youth Heritage Challenge will be launched later this year and will specifically
focus on allowing the voices of young people to be heard through creative expression and collaboration.
Why take part?
Have your say: Help us to understand the things that matter to you and your community
Celebrate your area: Share and spotlight the heritage that makes your area special
Shape the future: Influence national policy, including the Historic Environment Policy for Scotland
The consultation is open to everyone –young people, older people, business owners, volunteers, parents, New Scots, those who love heritage, and those with no strong feelings about heritage but who care about their surroundings.
If you want to talk to us about heritage, HES wants to hear from you.
To fill in the survey or to register your interest to take part in both the online and in-person events, visit https://www. historicenvironment.scot/advice-andsupport/communities/talking-aboutheritage/.
Tourism stars shine at the third annual thistle awards
Photographs Phil Wilkinson
Champions for tourism
Building on the incredible momentum of the last two years, the 2025 South of Scotland Thistle Awards have once again highlighted the outstanding quality, creativity, and passion that define our region’s tourism and hospitality sector.
From innovative businesses to inspiring individuals, this year’s finalists and winners embody the very best of what the South of Scotland has to offer.
These awards are more than a celebration; they are a testament to the vital role tourism plays in our economy and our communities.
‘My warmest congratulations go to all of our winners and finalists, and heartfelt thanks to our sponsors for their continued support.
To those now representing the South of Scotland on the national stage: we are right behind you – good luck in the finals!
David Hope-Jones
Chief Executive of the South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA)
Region's best head for national success
Tourism and hospitality businesses from across the South of Scotland gathered at GG’s Yard, Laggan for the third South of Scotland Thistle Awards.
The sold-out celebration brought together more than 180 finalists, partners and supporters for an evening of live entertainment, fine dining and making new connections.
With 15 award categories and 44 finalists from the Scottish Borders and Dumfries & Galloway, the awards once again shone a spotlight on the exceptional quality, creativity and innovation that continue to drive the South of Scotland’s visitor economy.
Delivered by the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise and VisitScotland, the South of Scotland Thistle Awards were supported once again by Caledonia Park Designer Outlet as headline sponsor.
This year saw the refresh of the Community Tourism and Events Initiatives category, which now shines an even brighter spotlight on Scotland’s vibrant community-driven tourism developments, celebrating the grassroots projects and partnerships that bring places to life and create lasting local impact.
2025 also sees the return of the Climate Action and Innovation Categories, highlighting the region’s businesses and organisations committed to making a difference in the tourism landscape.
The South of Scotland Thistle Award-winners were revealed across 15 categories. Each winner took home one of the much-loved trophies, handcrafted by Selkirk-based Holmes Glass.
The winning businesses, organisations and individuals (below) will now go on to represent the region at the national Scottish Thistle Awards finals in November.
• Best B&B or Guest House Experience – Clint Lodge, Melrose
• Best Bar or Pub – Cross Keys Inn, Ettrickbridge
• Best Community Tourism & Events Initiative – Stranraer Oyster Festival, Stranraer
• Best Eating Experience – Wilson’s Farm and Kitchen, Nr Kelso
• Best Hotel Experience, sponsored by Shortridge – The Murray Arms, Gatehouse of Fleet
• Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience – Mostly Ghostly, Dumfries and Galloway
• Best Self-Catering or Unique Stay – Loch Ken Eco Bothies, Galloway Activity Centre, Castle Douglas
• Best Visitor Attraction – Trimontium Museum, Melrose
• Climate Action Award, sponsored by VisitScotland – Wigwam Holidays, Wigtown
• Employer of the Year – The Cairndale Hotel & Spa, Dumfries
• Inclusion Tourism Award – The Great Tapestry of Scotland, Galashiels
• Individual of the Year – Katrina Reynolds
• Innovation Award, sponsored by Laggan – Trimontium Museum, Melrose
• Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival, sponsored by DG Unlimited – Dumfries International Street Food Festival, Dumfries
• Rising Star Award, sponsored by HIT Scotland – Laura Raeburn
A great night: Entertainment for Claire Hastings and Ron Jappy (top), perfect setting at GG's Yard and (above) SSDA CEO David Hope-Jones with Business Minister Richard Lochhead.
Clint Lodge, Melrose
GET IN TOUCH
Clint Lodge, St Boswells, Melrose, TD8 0DZ
t 01835 822027
e contact.clintlodge@gmail.com
w https://www.clintlodge.co.uk
Applegarth House B&B
GET IN TOUCH
Applegarth House B&B, Lockerbie, DG11 1SX
e kirsteen@applegarthhouse.co.uk
t 07791 561618
w https://applegarthhouse.co.uk
Keys Inn
GET IN TOUCH
Main Street, Etrrickbridge, Selkirkshire, Ettrickbridge, TD7 5JN
t +44 (0)1750 52224 e hello@ crosskeysinnettrickbridge.com
w www.crosskeysinnettrickbridge.com
F @CrossKeysInnEttrick
A region celebrating excellence
The South of Scotland has a rich and varied visitor economy and this is a great opportunity to celebrate all the region has to offer.
I was pleased to be involved in the launch of the area’s Responsible Tourism Strategy which aims to grow the sector by £1 billion within 10 years, supporting 20,000 jobs.
This is already showing results, with South Scotland Destination Alliance telling me figures reveal a £250 million increase in the value of South of Scotland tourism over the last two years.
I congratulate all of the nominees and winners from tonight’s awards, who have shown the quality and excellence visitors can expect from the region.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead
The Gordon Arms
GET IN TOUCH
Main St, Gordon TD3 6JW t 01573 410746
w www.tthegordonarms.co.uk
GET IN TOUCH
Harbour Row, Isle of Whithorn, DG8 8LL t 01988 500334
e info@thesteampacketinn.co.uk
w www.thesteampacketinn.co.uk
GET IN TOUCH
Cowbog, Kelso TD5 8EH
t 07973 379265
e hello@wilsonsfarmandkitchen.com
w www.wilsonsfarmandkitchen.com
The Homestead Cafe and Farm Shop
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The Homestead Cafe, Coldstream TD12 4LW
t 01890 880180
w www.lhomesteadcafe.co.uk
Fieldfare, Auldgirth
GET IN TOUCH
Low Auldgirth , Dumfries, United Kingdom t 07507 510263
e hello@lowauldgirth.co.uk
w www.lowauldgirth.co.uk/events
GET IN TOUCH
High St, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas DG7 2HY
t 01557 840206
e ihello@themurrayarmsgatehouse.co.uk
w www.themurrayarmsgatehouse.co.uk
Knockinaam Lodge
GET IN TOUCH
Portpatrick, Stranraer DG9 9AD
t 01776 810471
e reservations@knockinaamlodge.com
w www.knockinaamlodge.com
The Ship Inn
GET IN TOUCH
1 Fleet Street, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas, DG7 2HU t 0771 341 2030 (accommodation)
e reservations@theshipinngatehouse.com
w www.theshipinngatehouse.com
e info@lochkenecobothies.co.uk
w www.lochkenecobothies.co.uk
Woodend Rd, Ettrickbridge, Selkirk TD7 5JJ
t 07824 776385
e greenhousecabin@gmail.com
w www.greenhousecabin.co.uk
Auldgirth, Dumfries and Galloway, DG2 0XJ
t 07507510263
e hello@outdoorhotel.co.uk
w www.outdoorhotel.co.uk
GET IN TOUCH
Airriequhillart Farm, Port William, Newton Stewart DG8 9RL
t 07917 858592
e wigtown@wigwamholidays.com
w www.wigwamholidays.com/wigtown
Galloway and Southern Aryshire Biosphere
GET IN TOUCH
37 Queen St, Newton Stewart DG8 6JR
e info@gsabiosphere.org.uk
w www.gsabiosphere.org.uk
The Green House
GET IN TOUCH
Woodend Rd, Ettrickbridge, Selkirk TD7 5JJ
t 07824 776385
e greenhousecabin@gmail.com
w www.greenhousecabin.co.uk
The sweet taste of success
Romano Petrucci, Chair of Stranraer Development Trust that delivers Stranraer Oyster Festival, winner of the Best Community Tourism & Events Initiative, said: "This award belongs to our entire community - every volunteer, local business, and supporter who believed in Stranraer's potential.
Eight years ago, we started with a simple idea: celebrate our incredible oysters and show the world what our town could achieve.
This recognition proves that when communities come together with ambition and determination, extraordinary things happen.
We are just getting started.’
We are absolutely delighted to be headline sponsors of the 2025 South of Scotland Thistle Awards.
They celebrate the exceptional talent across our region.
With finalists in all 15 categories and a sold-out ceremony, it's clear the entrepreneurial spirit in the South of Scotland is thriving.
At Caledonia Park Designer Outlet, we're proud to support the businesses and individuals driving growth in our communities.
These awards showcase the quality and innovation that defines our region, and we wish all finalists the very best of luck as they progress to the national finals.
Scott Wells, Centre Director at Caledonia Park Designer Outletthe Thistles headline sponsor
A region of great talent
Hosted at the excellent GG’s Yard, the 2025 South of Scotland Thistle Awards have highlighted again the quality of service provided to visitors to our region, and the talented people working in this vital sector.
With 44 excellent finalists across 15 categories – a record number shortlisted – it was inspiring to hear their stories and their efforts to ensure all visitors to the South of Scotland enjoy a world-class experience.
The regional winners now move onto the Scottish finals, and I am certain several will be bringing national awards back to the South.
Russel Griggs Chair of South of Scotland Enterprise
IN TOUCH
Main Street, Allanton, Duns TD11 3JZ t 01890 818260
w www.allantoninn.co.uk
IN TOUCH
14-20 High St, Galashiels TD1 1SD t 01896 809354
e tapestry@liveborders.org.uk w www.greattapestryofscotland.com
IN TOUCH
Holywood Road, Auldgirth, Dumfries, DG2 0RP t 01387 740426
e info@ellislandfarm.co.uk
w www.ellislandfarm.co.uk
IN TOUCH
Laggan, Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries and Galloway, DG7 2ES t 01557 840 206
e enquiries@lagganlife.co.uk w www.lagganlife.co.uk
IN TOUCH Airhouses, Oxton, Lauder, TD2 6PX, t +44 (0)1578 717113
e carol@airhouses.com w www.airhouses.com
IN TOUCH
Annan Rd, Eastriggs, Stanfield DG12 6TF t 01461 700021
e info@devilsporridge.org.uk
w www.devilsporridge.org.uk
Dumfries International Street Food Festival
Recognising success
Huge congratulations to all the winners of this year’s South of Scotland Thistle Awards final.
It is wonderful to see individuals, businesses and events gain well-deserved recognition for all the hard work they do to make the South of Scotland, and indeed the country as a whole, a must-visit, mustreturn destination.
Scottish Thistle Award winners join a prestigious roll of honour, earning recognition as one of the best in the country. This helps ensure that industry, and the individuals who work in it, are recognised for the positive impact they bring to the Scotland and our communities.
I wish all of the South of Scotland winners the best of luck for the national final in November.
Barbara Smith, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards Industry Panel
Arts and crafts
History meets modernity at newly renovated Hawick Mill
by Meriem Yahiaoui
Nestled just round the corner from the striking architecture of Hawick Town Hall, you will find a buzzing new multi-purpose arts and events space for hire - the newly renovated Garfield Mill.
To date, the different stylish spaces within the Mill have been utilised for workshops, exhibitions, courses, supper nights and musical events, to name but a few functions they have serviced since opening in the summer of 2025.
The Mill currently comprises of a Green Room, the largest of the 2 available rooms, which is equipped with a stage that can host at least 100 people.
The second space for hire is the Black Room, a more intimate space with a suspended wood burning stove and a large table that can sit up to 16, with a piano and tea making facilities also provided.
Owners, James Cleggerson and Katie McCraw have realised a long cherished dream in renovating the Mill and bringing back to life a part of the old town of Hawick.
The original cast iron and stone works are respected, with many of the fittings still in place, whilst more up to date modern elements elevate the functionality of the Mill.
James’ main objective in renovating the Mill is his passion ‘to drive creativity in the Borders’; explaining that in offering the space to the public, he is allowing creative freedom for its different uses and also enabling a range of expressive art forms to take place in the Borders.
The next tabled event is the open call art exhibition which is now open for submissions of artworks that meet the only criteria of being 20 x 20 cm in size.
You can submit via their website; which also fascinatingly features a pictorial historiography of the Mill’s past, offering a lens through which to see the historical photographic and illustrative narratives of the various uses of the space, up to the present day.
Also featured is a shop section where you can purchase artworks from exhibitions hosted by the Mill, along with contact details for hiring the different spaces.
James and Katie are open to new suggestions and functions for this resurrected Mill that they have meticulously brought back to use, respectfully integrating the old features with modern touches.
Sara's satisfying the itch to stich
A professional costume maker whose work has appeared in film, TV, and on stages across the UK has turned her studio into a sewing classroom in Peebles.
Sara Hill, who has recently launched The Sewing Table, worked on the hit show Outlander as well as other major TV productions on Netflix, Apple TV and ITV.
Fames that has brought ommissions for costumes for national opera and ballet companies.
Now fans of The Great British Sewing Bee can benefit from her 17 years in the industry to learn a professional approach to sewing and bespoke garment making in her Borders sewing studio.
More
Where: Garfield Mill, Garfield Street, Hawick, TD9 9HB
Email: garfieldmillhawick@gmail.com
Website: https://garfieldmill.gallery
Telephone: 07947473061
“When I was learning how to sew, I remember traveling to London to do intensive short courses in professional sewing techniques, because I just couldn't find what I was looking for closer to home, so I’ve always had this idea in the back of my head that I’d really like to offer the sort of class that I would have liked when I was starting out.”
“I really believe that everyone should be able to achieve beautiful
looking results with the right approach and an understanding of the core principles and techniques that we use in professional workrooms.”
Having started as a side hustle on top of costume work, The Sewing Table is now a full time job, and already gaining a strong following of returning customers to it’s programme of sewing, fitting and pattern cutting classes.
“It has been wonderful to have had the opportunity to make so many beautiful costumes over the years.
"Now I’m finding real joy in sharing my love of sewing with people, and helping others to love it, too,” she said.
Get in touch
The Sewing Table, Peebles Website: www.the-sewing-table.com
Facebook: /TheSewingTablePeebles
Email: learntosew@the-sewing-table.com
Tel: 07525 826 172
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Photograph: Ronald Richardson
Weather watch alert for River Tweed
Unprecedented low water conditions and four heatwaves over the summer have prompted renewed focus on how the Tweed catchment is managed, particularly in minimising water temperatures and reducing stress on fish populations.
The Lower Tweed catchment - covering Coldstream (above) and Kelso - was escalated to the highest water scarcity level, with more than 30 consecutive days of significant water scarcity recorded.
The remainder of the Tweed catchment reached amber status, recorded 20–29 days of prolonged low flows.
The River Tweed Commission (RTC) remains in active dialogue with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) regarding licensed water abstraction in the district.
Ensuring maximum water retention in the river is a critical priority and a growing need for greater support for Scotland’s farmers and growers to invest in on-farm water storage and alternative irrigation strategies has been identified.
Equally, RTC advocates for SEPA to include conditions in all abstraction licences that clearly define threshold river flow levels, at which point water abstraction must cease or be reduced to protect the aquatic environment.
The Tweed Foundation continues to investigate the impact of freshets - controlled water releases from reservoirs - on water temperatures, and whether these can effectively cool the main stem of the River Tweed.
As part of the national Salmon Implementation Plan, a scientific advisory group has provided angling-related guidance: anglers should take extra care when water temperatures are between 18°C and 20°C and are advised to cease fishing when temperatures exceed 20°C.
To support real-time monitoring, the Tweed Foundation has launched a live water temperature recording system, with continuously updated readings now available
For the good of the river
on the official River Tweed website.
RTC CEO Jamie Stewart commented: "The Lower Tweed has now been officially designated a Significant Water Scarcity Area, highlighting the urgent need for smarter, more adaptive water management strategies in one of Scotland’s most iconic salmon rivers.
"RTC Fishery Officers are actively monitoring fish pods that are becoming increasingly isolated as they attempt to migrate through the system.
"We urge wild swimmers and dog walkers to be mindful when entering the river, as they may inadvertently disturb these vulnerable fish resting in pools.
"Anglers are reminded to follow the Scottish Government's guidance on fishing in warm conditions. Warmer water holds less oxygen, and any added stress—such as being forced to move—can significantly increase the risk of mortality," he said.
The RTC continues to monitor and respond to these challenging environmental conditions and remains committed to working with partners and the wider community to safeguard the future of the Tweed’s fish populations.
The Tweed Foundation is a charitable trust working to protect, improve and enhance the stocks of all native freshwater fish species within the River Tweed system. We are at the forefront in bringing a professional, scientific approach to fisheries management and are engaged in an extensive programme of biological monitoring, habitat enhancement and education.
Tweed Foundation, Drygrange Steading, Melrose, Roxburghshire, TD6 9DJ
