Five reasons to move to the Borders
Why has the Borders become so popular? We take a look at just a few reasons why this tranquil corner of the country could be the perfect place for you to find your new home.
It’s officially one of the best
The Scottish Borders is regularly named among the best places to live in the UK, with Melrose being named one of the finest in Scotland for 2021, according to The Sunday Times.
The UK-wide guide takes into account factors including job prospects, schools, broadband quality, culture, community spirit and local amenities, so you can be sure that a life in the Borders will tick all of your boxes.
Coastline or countryside – you choose
Whether you love being beside the sea or looking out onto open countryside, you don’t have to choose when it comes to living in the Borders, with both options in great supply.
Pretty seaside villages like St Abbs and Eyemouth are perfect for lovers of the coast, while the rolling hills of the likes of Lauder are ideal for those who dream of a lush view every day. There’s also the charming towns of Galashiels, Peebles and Kelso, if you prefer a bit more of a buzz on your doorstep.
More for your money
One of the biggest incentives for Borders buyers is the strong affordability of homes in the area. With many people now seeking additional living space to accommodate home working, it’s no surprise that the prospect of a bigger, more affordable home in the Borders is very appealing.
From August-November 2023, the average property selling price in the Borders was £197,524, compared to £261,344 in East Lothian and £293,036 in Edinburgh.
Excellent school options
Already renowned as a family-friendly place to settle down, the Borders is also home to a selection of superb schools.
School-age residents of Earlston not only benefit from the town’s close-knit community feel, but they, along with those from areas including Lauder, Melrose and St Boswells, can all attend Earlston High School (24th place in The Sunday Times’ top Scottish schools in 2023). Picturesque Peebles is another in-demand spot, where family buyers can enjoy Peebles High School (31st place) on their doorstep, with its state-of-the-art sports facility.
Convenient transport links
Whether you need to commute North or South, the Scottish Borders is brilliantly placed for getting you where you need to be.
Excellent road links mean that residents are well-connected with Edinburgh and Newcastle, for whenever you need to be in the city, while the reopened Borders Railway means you can benefit from regular rail services to Midlothian and Edinburgh. You can even get to London easily, by picking up the train at nearby Berwick-upon-Tweed.
The Borders certainly offers the best of both worlds, meaning you can enjoy peace and tranquillity in a rural setting, while knowing the cities are close at hand, whenever you might need them.
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