Bowhill House and Grounds
With a National Art Pass you get
The privately owned and run Bowhill House and Grounds is an historic estate in Scotland with art collections and an adventure playground.
With its stunning scenery, rich heritage, and diverse activities, Bowhill House and Grounds promises a great day out in the heart of the Scottish Borders. The principal residence of the Dukes of Buccleuch, for over two centuries, the house boasts a world-renowned art collection, while the surrounding grounds offer a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.
Explore the Buccleuch Collection
The grand interiors at Bowhill are adorned with masterpieces by artistic giants like Canaletto, Raeburn, Reynolds, and Gainsborough. Furniture, tapestries, porcelain, and even portrait miniatures make up part of the Buccleuch Collection, internationally recognised as one of the most important in the country.
Take a hike!
Beyond the house, Bowhill's extensive grounds offer a chance to connect with nature. Four way-marked trails of varied distance and terrain wind through scenic glens and heather-clad hills, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike. For the more adventurous, there's even the option of ranger-led activities and events.
Adventure playground
Bowhill House is a great place for a family outing. Kids will love exploring the fantastic adventure playground, with zip-wires, slides, swings, rope bridge and a fort, all set against the majestic backdrop of Bowhill Country Estate.
Visitor information
Address
Bowhill, Selkirk, Borders, TD7 5ET
01750 22204
Opening times
Bowhill House open for tours daily in August. Grounds open 1 June - 31 August.
Bowhill – The Victorian Home Tour - Limited Availability Tour for 2025
Discover a different side of Bowhill with exclusive access to rooms rarely open to the public. This new tour highlights the private and social spaces of the 5th Duke of Buccleuch, Walter Francis, and his wife, Charlotte Anne — key figures of the Victorian era and close friends of Queen Victoria.
You’ll visit nine rooms, including the spectacular Saloon, rising the full height of the house and framed by 17th-century Mortlake tapestries. Along the way, view highlights from the world-famous Buccleuch Collection, featuring fine art, silver, books, and tapestries.
Step inside history and see how Bowhill was — and still is — a truly lived-in home.
Tours take place daily in August, at 11am, 1pm and 2.30pm. Booking Strongly Recommended.