Location

Kirklands House occupies an elevated, south-facing position high above The River Tweed, in the heart of The Scottish Borders approximately 3 miles west of Melrose, just outside the small village of Redpath. Surrounded by mature trees, it occupies a secluded position from which there are magnificent views upstream along the River Tweed towards Leaderfoot Viaduct with the Eildon Hills, and surrounding Borders countryside providing the backdrop. A short walk down through the woods takes you to the Leader Water.

The historic town of Melrose, noted for its Abbey – now a picturesque ruin - was made famous in the 19th century by Sir Walter Scott who lived in nearby Abbotsford House. Melrose is a lovely town, with a remarkable combination of historic architecture and a full range of shops, hotels, restaurants, sporting facilities, the Borders General Hospital and St Marys Preparatory School, as well as a popular primary school. Kirklands House lies within the catchment area of Earlston High School.

Melrose plays host to the immensely popular annual Borders Book Festival in June, along with the world famous "Melrose Sevens" rugby tournament now held at the end of May. This part of the Borders is particularly well known for its beautiful countryside, dramatic landscapes, vibrant wildlife and strong equestrian tradition. Kirklands House is an ideal base for those who enjoy cycling, salmon fishing (most notably on The Tweed), walking, game shooting, rugby and golf (Melrose has its own course).

Edinburgh, and its international airport, are within easy reach, as is the main east coast rail line at Berwick-upon-Tweed (35 miles). Nine years ago, the Borders Railway between Edinburgh and the Borders was re-opened along the Old Waverley Line. It makes the town and the surrounding area very convenient for commuting to Edinburgh for work or school. The current journey time from Tweedbank (just west of Melrose – there is plenty of free parking)) to Edinburgh Waverley is 58 minutes with, at busy periods, two trains/hour.

Description

Kirklands House is wonderfully secluded and is something of a gem, hidden as it is by a belt of woodland, established along the boundary below the house, and which encircles most of the garden, keeping it private. It is a very pretty country house dating from 1730's (with later Victorian additions). It has a handsome façade with elegant, well-proportioned family accommodation arranged over three floors.

The house retains a wealth of period features such as working window shutters, ceiling roses, mouldings, doors, fireplaces and a graceful staircase leading up to the first floor. Of note are the dining room and large drawing room with its open fire. With elegant ceilings and generous proportions both are wonderful rooms for entertaining; a door leads from the dining room out on to the patio. The drawing room, and the bedroom above, have window seats in the bay windows from which the evening sun and views can be enjoyed. The house is traditionally laid out, with reception rooms, home office, kitchen and additional service rooms at ground floor level, with the main bedrooms and bathrooms on the first floor. The four attic rooms are used for storage.

A gravel drive leads from the entrance gates to a large semi-circular, gravel sweep at the front door, where a ha-ha provides protection from a beautifully maintained field. Around the side of the house is the walled garden, whilst on the other side (separated from the drive by another wall) is the back yard, leading to the back door. Here there are further outbuildings, a greenhouse, fruit cage and garden terrace. Throughout the garden is a wonderful display of spring flowers, specimen trees and flowering trees and shrubs including a rare Metasequioa (aka Dawn Redwood), a beautiful yew tree, flowering cherries, magnolia, azaleas and rhododendrons.

Lot 2: Stables Cottage and courtyard
Situated to the east of Kirklands House is its charming, cobbled stable yard. Here, with its own entrance from the public road, is Stable Cottage with a sitting room 2 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms and kitchen. Arranged around the yard are loose boxes, garaging, workshop, (garden) stores and an office. Subject to obtaining the necessary consents these buildings could be converted to alternative uses. Stables Cottage is available in addition to Kirklands House.