Allanton, population 100. Welcome to the sleepy back of beyond, an untouched corner of the rural idyll that most people skip on their rush north. Well, there’s no rush here, just patchwork fields, rolling hills and the river Tweed pottering off to the coast. As for this cute little inn, it’s a great base from which to explore. The style is charming, the locals friendly, the prices lovely, the food a treat. It sits on the only street in town with a garden that backs onto open country; in summer you can have lunch in the sun while watching the farmer plough his fields. Inside, home-spun interiors have colour and style. There’s an open-plan feel, the airy bar flowing into a half-panelled restaurant. You’ll find a smouldering fire, fresh flowers, good art, local ales. Rooms have an easy style: padded bedheads, good bathrooms, Farrow & Ball colours. A couple are big, those at the back have the view. Super local food waits downstairs, perhaps an Eyemouth fish platter, rump of local lamb, lavender and raspberry brûlée. There’s local honeycomb at breakfast, too. You can fish, walk, play a bit of golf. Perfect.
We stayed for one night on our way north but could have made it longer. It’s a lovely old inn in a quit village surrounded by beautiful cointryside. Very comfortable room and great food in the restaurant.