Living in Peebles
Nestled in the stunning Tweed Valley and wrapped in rolling hills, Peebles is a picture-perfect town in the Scottish Borders that punches well above its weight when it comes to charm. With its colourful high street, riverside walks, independent shops, and thriving arts scene, this historic town is a bit of a show-off - but in the best way possible. Whether you're after outdoor adventures, peace and quiet, or a friendly community, Peebles might just steal your heart.
Is Peebles a good place to live?
Peebles has that rare mix of countryside calm and lively local culture. It’s a town where you can start the day with a riverside stroll, pop into a quirky bookshop, and still be back in time for a pint by the fire at a local pub. Sound dreamy? That’s because it is.
The town has a lovely mix of homes, from snug stone cottages to modern townhouses with countryside views. It’s also known for its warm community spirit, thriving festivals (hello, Beltane Festival Week!), and heaps of local pride. For families, retirees, and remote workers looking to swap city buzz for Border bliss, Peebles is a real contender.
What is the transport in Peebles like?
While Peebles doesn’t have a train station, it more than makes up for it with a strong bus network and good road connections.
Peebles by bus
Peebles is well-served by Borders Buses, which link the town to Edinburgh, Galashiels, and beyond. The X62 whisks passengers to the capital in just over an hour - perfect for commuters or culture-hungry day-trippers. Local routes also connect you to smaller villages and neighbouring towns, making Peebles a handy hub in the Borders.
Peebles by car
The A703 and A72 keep Peebles well-connected to Edinburgh, the Central Belt, and the rest of the Borders. Fancy a weekend in the north of England or a beach day in East Lothian? It’s no hassle if you have your own set of wheels.
What are the schools in Peebles like?
For a town of its size, Peebles has a great reputation when it comes to education. Peebles High School regularly performs well and is attended by 1300 pupils from all over the Tweeddale area. Primary-aged kids can head to Kingsland or Priorsford Primary - both friendly, well-rated schools.
The town also has a strong emphasis on outdoor and creative learning, with lots of extracurricular clubs and activities. It’s an ideal place for kids to grow up curious and confident.
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What are the best things to do in Peebles
One of the best things about living in Peebles is having easy access to nature. The Tweed Valley is a playground for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. Glentress Forest is just nearby and is world-famous for its mountain biking trails, but also offers scenic walks and peaceful forest bathing.
The High Street is the heart of the town, packed with independent shops, cozy cafés, and local restaurants. It’s perfect for a weekend wander or grabbing a coffee and watching the world go by.
You’ll find community events happening year-round, from the Beltane Festival to farmers’ markets — ideal for getting to know your neighbours and feeling at home.
History buffs will appreciate Neidpath Castle, perched dramatically above the River Tweed, and there are plenty of walking trails that showcase the area’s heritage and scenery.
Types of property in Peebles
Peebles might be small, but there are housing options aplenty. You’ll find everything from classic Victorian terraces with high ceilings and fireplaces, to sleek new-builds with panoramic views of the valley. Discover stone cottages with quaint gardens or cosy flats near the shops. Whether you're dreaming of a forever family home or a peaceful retirement pad, Peebles has so much to offer.
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FAQs about living in Peebles
For a town of its size, Peebles has an excellent reputation for education. The local secondary school consistently achieves strong results and serves around 1,300 students from across the Tweeddale area. For younger children, there are well-regarded and welcoming primary schools available in town. For more details on the best schools in Peebles, click here.
As the national body for supporting quality and improvement of learning and teaching, Education Scotland is a great place to look for information on school performance. You can use the website to search for an inspection report in a specific school.
We list the school catchment for every property listing in Peebles on espc.com. To search properties by school catchment area, click here.
For details on school catchment areas in Peebles, please refer to the Scottish Borders Council website.
The average price of homes in Peebles is £277,172. This figure is based on properties marketed and sold through ESPC, in the 3-month period ending on 31/03/2025.
Whitburn Projects Ltd will bring a selection of 50 new homes to the town, including 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom houses in a new development at March Street. Located on the site of a former mill in the heart of the Conservation area, the development is a short walk from the High Street and all of the amenities of Peebles.
For details on council tax bands and charges in the Scottish Borders, please refer to the Scottish Borders Council website.
Peebles boasts a variety of family-oriented attractions. Hay Lodge Park offers expansive green spaces, a children's play area, and riverside walks along the Tweed. Tweed Green, centrally located, is ideal for picnics and relaxation. For nature enthusiasts, Glentress Forest provides mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels, while the Tweed Valley Canoe Trail offers scenic paddling experiences. Nearby, Dawyck Botanic Garden showcases diverse plant collections. Traquair House, Scotland's oldest inhabited house, features a maze, craft workshops, and a brewery, making it a unique family destination.
Cultural and Recreational Facilities: Peebles is recognized for its vibrant arts scene, highlighted by the Eastgate Theatre, which hosts a range of performances and workshops for all ages. The town supports active lifestyles with facilities like Peebles RFC and Peebles Rovers F.C., catering to rugby and football enthusiasts. Additionally, the area is a haven for outdoor activities, offering extensive trails for walking, cycling, and horse riding, including routes like the John Buchan Way and the Cross Borders Drove Road.
Community Groups, Festivals, and Family Events: Peebles hosts several annual events fostering community engagement. The Beltane Festival celebrates local traditions with parades and festivities. The TweedLove Bike Festival attracts cycling enthusiasts with races and family rides. The Peebles Arts Festival showcases local talent across various art forms. The Peebles Highland Games feature traditional Scottish sports and cultural displays. Additionally, the Peebles Show offers agricultural exhibits and family entertainment.
Peebles at a glance*
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