Living in Galashiels

Galashiels (locals just call it “Gala”) is a lively Borders town that manages to mix rural charm with a surprising dash of big-town energy. Nestled among rolling hills and surrounded by postcard-worthy countryside, it’s a place where you can hop from browsing independent shops to hiking a hill trail in the space of an afternoon. Add in a thriving student population, a strong community spirit, and trains that actually get you to Edinburgh faster than you’d think, and you’ve got yourself one of the Scottish Borders’ best-kept secrets.

Is Galashiels a good place to live?

Galashiels has that rare blend of energy and ease - it’s friendly, affordable, and close to nature without feeling remote. Whether you’re drawn by the great transport links, the creative edge, or the promise of a more relaxed lifestyle, it’s easy to see why more people are putting down roots here.

It’s one of the larger towns in the Borders, which means you get the perks of rural living without sacrificing convenience. There’s a good mix of local businesses, bigger shops, and enough restaurants and takeaways to keep your Friday nights interesting. The town centre has had a bit of a spruce-up in recent years, and there’s a sense that Galashiels is very much on the up.

Thanks to Heriot-Watt University’s Borders Campus, the town has a youthful buzz that keeps things feeling fresh. Families love the choice of schools and green space, commuters love the train line to Edinburgh, and everyone seems to love the prices - property here is generally more affordable than in the capital or the central belt.

What is the transport in Galashiels like?

Here’s where Gala really shines...it’s got great links for a Borders town. You can get to Edinburgh in under an hour - but still come home to birdsong instead of traffic noise.

Galashiels by rail

The Borders Railway is a game-changer. With Galashiels Station right in town, you can be in Edinburgh Waverley in around 55 minutes - perfect for commuters or day-trippers. Trains run frequently throughout the day, so it’s easy to balance city work with country living.

Galashiels by bus

The Borders Buses network connects Galashiels to nearby towns like Selkirk, Melrose, Hawick, and Peebles. Services are regular and reliable, with most routes running from the Interchange in the town centre.

Galashiels by car

The A7 and A68 are your main routes north and south, linking Gala to Edinburgh, Carlisle, and the rest of the Borders. Roads are scenic and generally quiet - unless there’s a herd of sheep staging a protest somewhere up ahead.

What are the schools in Galashiels like?

There are several primaries to choose from, including Balmoral, St Peter’s, Burgh, St. Margaret’s and Langlee Primary, all well-integrated into their local communities. For secondary education, Galashiels Academy serves the town and surrounding areas and has a good reputation for both academics and extracurricular activities.

And for those thinking longer-term, Heriot-Watt University’s Borders Campus is right here in town and specialises in textiles, design, and engineering. It adds a creative spark and gives Gala a student-town feel without ever losing its Borders roots.

Search properties by school catchment

What are the best things to do in Galashiels

There’s more to Gala than meets the eye. Start in the town centre, where you’ll find indie cafés, local shops, and the Great Tapestry of Scotland exhibition... a must-see for anyone who loves art, history, or just a good story told in stitches.

If you’re into the outdoors, you’re spoilt for choice. Walk the Southern Upland Way, cycle the Tweed Valley trails, or take a stroll along the River Tweed itself. For something gentler, the town’s parks and green spaces make for a lovely lazy afternoon.

Galashiels is also big on community events. The Braw Lads’ Gathering is the highlight of the year - a week-long celebration of local heritage, horses, and hearty Borders spirit. Add in live music nights, local markets, and nearby attractions like Abbotsford House (home of Sir Walter Scott), and you’ve got a town that always finds a reason to celebrate.

Types of property in Galashiels

From traditional stone-built terraces and Victorian villas to modern new-build estates, the property market in Galashiels has something for everyone. You’ll find family homes with gardens, affordable starter flats, and the occasional countryside retreat just a short drive from town. Prices are typically very reasonable - one of the reasons so many people are moving here from Edinburgh and beyond.

SEARCH HOMES FOR SALE IN GALASHIELS

Planning on moving to Galashiels?

If you’re planning a move, have a chat with a local solicitor estate agent who really knows the Borders market. They’ll help you find just the right spot - whether that’s a cosy flat by the station, a family home near the schools, or a countryside escape where the only rush hour involves sheep.

Find a solicitor estate agent in Galashiels

You can search our directory of local ESPC solicitor agents. Simply type in Galashiels and we’ll give you the contact details and all the information you need on the agent.