Exploring the magic of Schloss Roxburghe: Where luxury meets adventure

Scotland is as beautiful as they say, and the Scottish Borders is no exception. This charming region, with its rolling hills and picturesque scenery, has always been a pleasure to visit. One gem I kept hearing about was Schloss Roxburghe—a countryside retreat that promised luxury and adventure in equal measure. Naturally, I had to see for myself.

Schloss Roxburghe is more than just a hotel; it’s an experience. It boasts a championship golf course, a stunning spa with an outdoor heated infinity pool, and a range of outdoor activities. The property is home to elegant rooms, suites, and self-catering cottages that cater to families and groups alike. Add to that its focus on locally sourced, estate-grown produce, and it’s clear why this place is so highly rated.

The drive from Edinburgh is a breeze—just over an hour through charming towns like Lauder and Kelso. From Glasgow, it’s around two hours, and if you’re coming from Newcastle, it’s only 45 minutes. The estate is perfectly located for visitors from both Scotland and northern England.

My first visit was back in 2021 for the Golfbreaks Get Back to Golf Tour, which I set up to support professionals and top amateurs whose schedules were disrupted by COVID. Playing the course was an absolute joy. At over 7,100 yards from the blue tees, it’s every bit the championship course it claims to be. Designed by the renowned Dave Thomas, the layout makes the most of the natural landscape, mature woodlands, and scenic views. It’s no wonder it’s ranked among Scotland’s top 10 inland courses—though for me, it’s easily in the top five.

At the time, the hotel was undergoing a significant transformation. They were refurbishing rooms, building a new wing, and adding 51 self-catering cottages. Fast forward to now, and I was thrilled to revisit and experience all these upgrades with my girlfriend Elaine. We left Edinburgh excited to see what the Roxburghe had to offer.

We arrived early for our tee time, giving us enough time to enjoy a hearty bowl of soup at the clubhouse and warm up at the range. The facilities here are top-notch, with all bays equipped with Toptracer technology, and more improvements planned.

Even in early October, the course was in excellent condition. We took a buggy to explore the grounds fully. The first hole offers a glimpse of the new cottages—beautiful, modern, and well-placed, but thankfully far enough away from errant shots! Highlights included the signature par-5 14th hole, “The Viaduct,” with its stunning elevated tee and a green framed by the historic Roxburgh Viaduct.

After our round, we checked into the hotel. The historic manor house blends old-world charm with modern luxury. Our room in the new wing offered breathtaking views of the gardens and the infinity pool, which was a treat to explore later that afternoon. Heated to 29-30°C, it’s the perfect spot to unwind, complete with colour-changing lights for a magical ambiance.

Following a wee rest, we headed to the pool and spa—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. I’ve seen my fair share of leisure facilities over the years, but the Roxburghe’s setup is truly next-level. It’s absolutely stunning.

The indoor area is spacious and thoughtfully designed, with plenty of comfortable beds and seats for relaxing. If you’re feeling a bit more energetic, there’s a fitness suite right next door. Outside, the heated infinity pool is the star of the show, but there’s more: two saunas and a plunge pool add to the experience. They even offer complimentary herbal teas, water, and fruit to keep you refreshed.

Now, I’m not usually a big fan of swimming, but I couldn’t resist. Whether it was a proper swim or more of a paddle is up for debate, but either way, I loved every minute of it!

The estate offers a range of activities beyond golf and spa treatments. From shooting and trout fishing to exploring the kids’ club and nearby Kelso Racecourse, there’s something for everyone. The self-catering cottages even have their own estate market, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.

For dinner, we opted for Charlie’s, one of the two main restaurants on the estate. The food was exceptional—fresh, locally sourced, and beautifully prepared. The only hiccup was a slightly long wait between courses, but given the lively atmosphere, we didn’t mind.

What truly elevates the Roxburghe experience is the attention to detail. From the seamless check-in process to the friendly staff—special shoutout to George, the lobby host, whose knowledge of the estate’s history is captivating—everything is designed to make guests feel at home.

Our stay at Schloss Roxburghe was nothing short of magical. Whether you’re a golfer, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family seeking a luxurious escape, this place has it all. I’m already looking forward to my next visit—perhaps in winter, when I imagine the estate transforms into a cozy wonderland.

If you’re considering a trip to the Scottish Borders, make Schloss Roxburghe your destination. You won’t be disappointed.