Places to Eat & Drink
Spoil Yourself
Welcome to our guide to the best places to eat and drink around Yarrow, Melrose, and Innerleithen. Whether you’re after cozy cafés, traditional pubs, stylish bistros, or craft breweries, this vibrant region of the Scottish Borders offers a fantastic variety of dining experiences. Explore local flavours, seasonal menus, and warm hospitality as you discover some of the area’s most beloved spots to relax, refuel, and enjoy great food and drink.
Places to Eat and Drink around Yarrow, Melrose and Innerleithen
Twelve Triangles – Melrose
📍 23 Market Square, Melrose TD6 9PL
A stylish bakery café renowned for its sourdough, creative pastries, and excellent coffee. The perfect spot for a relaxed breakfast or afternoon treat.
📸 Image idea: Pastries and coffee with natural light.
Out Out – Innerleithen
📍 Innerleithen, Scottish Borders
A vibrant gastropub offering seasonal small plates, cocktails, brunch, and hearty mains in a lively, modern setting.
📸 Image idea: Cocktails and sharing plates or lively interior.
Durty Brewing Tap Room – Innerleithen
A lively brewery taproom showcasing local craft beers, innovative brews, and a friendly atmosphere. Ideal for beer lovers looking to sample unique flavors straight from the source.
📸 Image idea: Row of craft beers on tap or vibrant taproom interior.
Haus & Co – Innerleithen
A beautiful café and lifestyle shop featuring artisan brunch, specialty coffee, and Nordic-inspired homeware in a stylish environment.
📸 Image idea: Flat white and avocado toast on rustic tableware.
The Traquair Arms – Innerleithen
A historic hotel and bar serving traditional Scottish dishes and hearty pub fare, located in the charming town of Innerleithen. A great spot to unwind with friends or after exploring the Borders.
📸 Image idea: Cozy pub interior or classic Scottish meal.
The Waterwheel Café – Philiphaugh Estate
📍 Philiphaugh Estate, near Selkirk
Set on the scenic Philiphaugh Estate, this charming café offers delicious homemade food and cakes with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the iconic waterwheel. A perfect stop for walkers and visitors exploring the estate.
📸 Image idea: Café exterior with waterwheel, or a tray of homemade cake and coffee.
The Gordon Arms – Yarrow
A welcoming country inn nestled in the Yarrow Valley, known for its seasonal, locally sourced menus and peaceful rural setting.
📸 Image idea: Rustic stone building or plated seasonal dish.
The Cross Keys Inn – Ettrickbridge
📍 crosskeysinnettrickbridge.com
A traditional Borders pub serving hearty meals, classic ales, and warm hospitality in the village of Ettrickbridge. Ideal after a riverside walk.
📸 Image idea: Cozy pub interior or Sunday roast with ale.
The Hoebridge – Gattonside
An intimate, modern restaurant just across the river from Melrose. Known for seasonal menus featuring local ingredients served with elegance.
📸 Image idea: Warmly lit exterior or beautifully plated dish.
Provender – Melrose
📍 West End House, High Street, Melrose TD6 9RU
Modern bistro-style dining blending Scottish, French, and British influences in a stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
📸 Image idea: Bistro exterior or seasonal entrée.
The Townhouse – Melrose
Boutique hotel and restaurant overlooking Melrose Market Square, serving polished Scottish fare with excellent wines.
📸 Image idea: Elegant dining table or historic hotel façade.
The Courtyard Café – Mellerstain House
📍 mellerstain.com/courtyard-cafe
A peaceful café set in the historic courtyard of Mellerstain House. Ideal for tea, cake, or a light lunch after exploring the grounds.
📸 Image idea: Outdoor table with garden views.
Café located at Sir Walter Scott’s former home, offering panoramic views and a menu of quality hot meals, cakes, and coffee.
📸 Image idea: Coffee and cake by a window with scenic views.
Mainstreet Trading Company – St Boswells
Award-winning combination of bookshop, café, and deli in one delightful location. A must-visit for browsing, lunching, and local treats.
📸 Image idea: Books and coffee or deli counter display.