‘Sour plums’ is also the motto of Galashiels, after a group of English raiders were caught feasting on plums from a tree close to the town, and were discovered by the Scots, who slaughtered them all.
Galashiels, Scottish Borders
Galashiels is one of the main towns in the Scottish Borders, located in the heart of the region. Home of the traditional Scottish sweet, soor plooms, the textile industry, and Sir Walter Scott, Galashiels today is a bustling hive of activity.
‘Sour plums’ is also the motto of Galashiels, after a group of English raiders were caught feasting on plums from a tree close to the town, and were discovered by the Scots, who slaughtered them all.
The traditional Scottish candy, ‘soor plooms’ originated in Galashiels. It’s a round, acidic, green-boiled sweet that originated in Galashiels.
One of the best views of the town is from Gala Hill. The coast-to-coast hiking trail, the Southern Upland Way passes through the town.
The town is world-renowned for its textile industry which began its flourish in the 19th century. It is home to the Great Tapestry of Scotland, one of the world’s largest community tapestry projects, which tells Scotland’s story over 420 million years. It was hand stitched by over 1000 people across Scotland!
In the centre of the town is the site of the old corn mill, which was demolished in the early 20th century. The old lade has been repurposed into a fountain, now known as the Cornmill Fountain. It features a bizarre design of boys riding dolphins.
the mural of the legendary Sir Walter Scott painted on a building on Bank Close. He lived near Galashiels, just across the River Tweed, in his home, Abbotsford.
There is also some cool independent shopping in Galashiels. The Why Not cafe sells food, and locally made arts, crafts, and clothing. They also sell items for local charities.
Winter, Spring, Summer & Fall is another lovely homewares shop.
How To Get To Galashiels
What3Words: ///basin.nooks.detained
Latitude / Longitude: 55.616482 / -2.805040
