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AREA SPOTLIGHT

More for your money
St Abbs View of Tweedbank and Galashiels
Affordability is another major factor behind
the Borders’ popularity. In an era when many
people are working from home more often,
buyers are prioritising space and comfort. A
detached house with a garden, a home office,
and maybe even a guest room is far more
attainable here than in nearby cities.
Between June and August 2025, the average
selling price of a home in the Borders was
£213,354. Compare that to £303,786 in East
Lothian or £315,961 in Edinburgh, and it’s easy
to see why the area is drawing attention.
That difference in cost doesn’t just mean
more space indoors - it can also mean larger
gardens, better views, and in some cases, the Excellent schools and family appeal Convenient transport links
opportunity to buy period properties or homes
Coastline or countryside? In 2025, Earlston continues to be very A rural setting doesn’t have to mean isolation.
with character that would be prohibitively popular among families. Earlston High One of the Borders’ biggest advantages is its
One of the standout attractions of the Borders expensive elsewhere. School, serving pupils from surrounding excellent transport connections, which allow
is its variety of landscapes. Here, you don’t places such as Lauder, Melrose, St Boswells residents to enjoy peaceful countryside living
need to choose between a life by the sea or a For many, moving to the Borders is an and others, remains well-regarded and is without losing easy access to Scotland’s major
home surrounded by countryside, as you can upgrade in both lifestyle and property. Buyers usually rated among the top schools in the cities — or beyond.
have both within easy reach. who once thought they could only afford a Earlston catchment. The school benefits
modest flat in the city are discovering that, from a modern campus and strong support For those commuting north, the Borders Railway
For lovers of the coast, pretty seaside villages in the Borders, they could own a spacious in curriculum, pupil support and extra- has been a game-changer. The line, reopened
such as St Abbs and Eyemouth provide a home with room for a family, hobbies, or even curricular activities. in 2015, provides regular services between
sense of escape, with dramatic clifftop views, working from home in style. Tweedbank, Galashiels, and Edinburgh, making
fishing harbours, and a thriving sense of In Peebles, there have been some significant it perfectly feasible to live in the Borders while
community. These spots are ideal for those developments. Peebles High School has working in the capital. The journey takes under
who dream of daily walks by the water, fresh been recognised by Education Scotland an hour, giving commuters time to unwind while
seafood, or perhaps even taking up diving, for making positive progress in supporting travelling through stunning scenery.
sailing, or paddleboarding in some of the most pupils’ learning and achievement, and as a
picturesque coastal settings in the UK. result has been placed 41st in the Sunday Meanwhile, the region’s road links connect easily
Times 2025 League Tables. Families settling to both Edinburgh and Newcastle, offering
Meanwhile, those who prefer rolling hills here can also enjoy the town’s thriving arts flexibility for those who drive. And for longer
and lush countryside are spoiled for choice. scene, independent shops, and outdoor journeys, nearby Berwick-upon-Tweed offers
Towns like Lauder sit amidst sweeping activities, from river walks to mountain rail connections all the way to London, meaning
green landscapes, perfect for morning hikes, biking in Glentress Forest. even the UK capital feels within reach.
weekend cycles, or simply enjoying the view
from your garden. And then there are vibrant For parents, knowing that their children This combination of connectivity and tranquillity
market towns such as Galashiels, Peebles, and can enjoy a safe, nurturing environment is one of the Borders’ most attractive features.
Kelso, which combine scenic surroundings with access to quality schools is a huge Residents can enjoy a slower, more relaxed
with a livelier atmosphere and a wider range of reassurance, and the Borders delivers on all pace of life day-to-day, while knowing that city
amenities. Whether you crave peace and quiet counts. conveniences are never far away.
or a small-town buzz, the Borders gives you Peebles
the freedom to choose your pace of life.
You can find the latest Borders properties for sale at espc.com.
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