We spent a weekend at the Kingsknowes enjoying the Scottish Borders hospitality and some of their beautiful towns and countryside. Staying at the Kingnsknowes felt like being hosted in a family mansion. It is plausible that the owners have preserved this character while providing all the hotel amenities gracefully and discreetly. Our room was charming, overlooking the garden and conservatory. The modern bathroom was spacious and had a painted stained glass window. Everything was in absolute cleanliness. Regarding food, we must highlight the a la carte breakfast, served in an elegant Victorian room with pleasant views. We loved the detail of the tablecloths on the tables and the nice cutlery. The service, including the bar and restaurant, was impeccable but friendly. For those travelling by train from Edinburgh, the arrival station is Galashiels. The town is a short distance from the hotel, which can be easily reached by taxi or by taking the X95 bus at the Interchange facility in front of the train station. When in Galashiels, we suggest to visit the museum 'The Great Tapestry of Scotland.' Also nearby is the picturesque town of Melrose and the ruins of its famous Abbey, now under renovation. But for us, the best walk was touring the beautiful banks of the River T**** and visiting Abbotsford, the house and gardens of the writer Sir Walter Scott, which are fantastic. The house is within walking distance of the Kingsknowes Hotel, just across the river. To summarise, the Galashiels area and the Kingsknowes Hotel were a pleasant experience that we would repeat and recommend.