Style and Substance
Peebles Hydro opened in 1881 and was one of many in the UK built to provide hydrotherapy and water “cures” for guests, documented by black and white images in the lobby.
It is easy to imagine smartly dressed Victorian guests with parasols gliding up the grand entrance stairway.
The cast of the 1970 film Tam-Lin, including its star Ava Gardner stayed while filming on location at Traquair House.
Sleeping Matters
Our spacious Feature Room had marvellous views of the Tweed Valley, best enjoyed with a cup of tea and complimentary Borders Biscuits.
The décor of muted greys and olive greens mirror the idyllic country setting create a very calming ambience. All rooms are equipped with Arran Aromatics toiletries.
Food For Thought
We dined in the clean Grill Room, a pleasingly bright and airy restaurant with a menu that has something for everyone from Sunday roasts and “Hydro Beer” braised beef to broccoli, pea and barley risotto for the non-meat eaters. Portions were a bit on the large side but that may be a selling point for some.
The hotel brews its own beer on the grounds and boasts its own gin school and distillery serving up the house version – 1881 Gin. The dark and cosy Not The Cocktail Bar, does in fact mix up many varieties including mocktails
Drink In The Sights
The hotel is very family-friendly with a playpark and meet-and-greet sessions with two resident Alpacas. There is also archery, axe-throwing and guests enjoy complimentary access to the gym and swimming pool. Pure Spa therapists are on hand to calm the nerves of frazzled parents.
For those leaving the sanctuary of the dog-friendly hotel, there are walks-a-plenty including Janet’s Brae, a seven-mile hike through woodland and glens along the banks of the Tweed that takes in a pre-historic settlement.
Nice touch
The hotel has its own gin school and distillery (1881 Gin) and it is well worth booking a tasting session where guests can also try their hand at making their own version of ‘Mother’s Ruin’. Master distiller Jamie Baxter led an informative and very enjoyable talk.
About The Area
Situated on the banks of the beautiful, meandering River Tweed, surrounded by gently rolling hills and just a 30-minute drive south of Scotland’s capital city, the town of Peebles is a popular tourist destination.
The High Street has an array of independent shops, delis, cafes, pubs and restaurants.
Drink in the sights at Cocoa Black, run by the award-winning chocolatier Ruth Hinks, on Cuddybridge, at the start of the Old Town.
Peebles Hydro is offering 15% off stays and an 1881 Distillery tour and tasting for bookings taken up to June 30.
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