Galashiels Tourist Information

Galashiels lies at the heart of the Borders in the narrow valley of the Gala Water, close to its meeting with the River Tweed. The Town Crest on the municipal buildings depicts a fox trying to reach the ripe fruit of a plum tree. The motto 'Sour Plums' refers to an incident during a border raid in 1337 when a party of English raiders were slain while picking wild plums.

There have been mills in Galashiels since the 17th century, but with the introduction of the first carding machine in the late 18th century, large-scale manufacturing commenced, and the textile industry was the basis of the town's prosperity. This is reflected in the motto of the Galashiels Manufacturer's Corporation "We dye to live and live to die".

The Braw Lad's Gathering in late June is a week of ceremonies and events, when a mounted procession rides through the town, commemorating the town's history and the granting of its charter in 1599.

Old Gala House and Christopher Boyd Gallery is the historic home of the Lairds of Gala, dating from 1583 with a fine painted ceiling (1635). Within the Lochcarron of Scotland Cashmere and Wool Centre you can take a tour of the weaving process, and the Galashiels Museum is also located within the mill. Cyclists can join the 90-mile Tweed Cycle Way on its route between Berwick and Biggar. The Southern Upland Way passes through the town, offering the strenuous challenge of a long distance walk.

For leisure and recreation Galashiels has an Athletics Track, a 400m all-weather running track and facilities for field events, a Bowling Green, Indoor Bowling Stadium, Swimming Pool, two 18 hole Golf Clubs and a Golf Range. The Pavilion situated in the Town Square has a 4-screen cinema.