Entering the original oak front door, Aikwood Tower’s endearing quirks of architecture and craftsmanship are immediately apparent as the Kerry-handed (left turning) spiral staircase lies before you.
The Great Hall, with roaring fire and luxurious furnishings, provides a comfortable and informal atmosphere for guests to relax. Meal time conversations swirl around the vaulted ceiling of the dining room and kitchen. A small reading study with panelled ceiling offers tranquillity and a place to enjoy classic gramophone recordings.
The upper gallery is where modern-day excesses can be found – screening room, games consoles, business facilities – with relaxing lounge seating.
Dogs are welcome. House rules applicable.
Internet access is available throughout Aikwood Tower.
Aikwood Tower has recently been renovated and now offers an ideal venue for a special celebration and yet just 40 miles from Edinburgh.
There are four double bedrooms in the main tower, with the Master Bedroom, the highlight, and a fifth in the extended wing. Four out of the five bedrooms can be made available as twin rooms.
All bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms. There are two separate WC’s on the ground floor.
The Laigh Hall provides ample function space for small wedding receptions, business meetings, celebratory dinners and other activities. The upper gallery is where modern-day excesses can be found – screening room, games consoles, business facilities – with relaxing lounge seating.
The neighbouring Bowhill Estate offers exceptional driven partridge and pheasant shooting and the River Tweed with its legendary salmon fishing is closeby.
Trout loch fishing can be arranged on the Bowhill Estate.
The rolling hills and woodland trails of the Ettrick and Yarrow valleys are perfect for walking, mountain biking or horse riding, and their rivers ideal for kayaking. Maps and suggested trails are available for you to navigate around the countryside, as are local guides who can point out the rich diversity of flora, fauna and wildlife, including the majestic ospreys that have recently returned to the region.
Just 30 minutes away is the mountain biking Mecca of Glentress Forest – the UK’s leading mountain biking centre – with its wide variety of trails and challenging downhill runs.
The fantastic championship golf courses of Roxburghe (woodland course) and Cardrona (woodland/parkland course) are both nearby while tennis courts are just a 5 minute drive away.
If you would like a personal yoga session or massage to ease away the day’s exertions, local experts are available to come to Aikwood Tower to meet your needs.