It is around just an hour out of Edinburgh.
The town has been named both the “most improved” and the “happiest” in Scotland(Image: denovan / Getty Images)
There are lots of places around Scotland that are pretty much unanimously considered to be among the top destinations in the country. From Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye, these locations will never go out of style and will forever be popular staycation and holiday spots.
However, there are countless other villages, towns, and cities in Scotland that were once overlooked but are now well worth a visit. One of these destinations is Galashiels in the Scottish Borders, which in the span of a year was crowned both the “most improved” and “happiest” town in the country.
Galashiels, which is often referred to simply as ‘Gala’ by locals, is home to a population of around 10,000 people. The town was historically renowned around the world for its textile industry, and today it is the home of Heriot-Watt University’s School of Textiles and Design.
READ MORE: The tiny Scottish island named ‘best day trip from Edinburgh’ by Lonely Planet
READ MORE: The historic Scottish cathedral town that was named ‘best for retirement’
Galashiels previously won the coveted ‘Most Improved Place’ award at the national SURF Awards, organised by Scotland’s Regeneration Forum. It earned the title in 2023 in recognition of the regeneration of its town centre, as well as various local improvement projects.
Following Galashiels’ victory at the SURF Awards, the town was also crowned the happiest place in Scotland in 2023 as part of the Rightmove Happy at Home survey. The annual poll asks members of the public to share what makes them happy about where they live, based on various factors.
One of Galashiels’ top attractions is the Great Tapestry of Scotland gallery and visitor centre, which opened to the public in 2021. The attraction displays the Great Tapestry of Scotland, which was hand-stitched by around 1,000 people from across the country and is among the largest community arts projects in the world.
As well as the tapestry itself, which comprises 160 linen panels and around 300 miles of wool, the visitor centre hosts regular exhibitions, events, workshops, and more. The attraction is also home to a popular café that offers meals and snacks that are made fresh with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Another top attraction in Galashiels is Old Gala House, which is a historic museum and gallery dating back to 1583 that tells the fascinating story of the town and its people. Set within lovely landscaped grounds, the magnificent building was once home to the Lairds of Galashiels.
Just outside of Galashiels is Abbotsford, which was built in the 19th century as the home of celebrated Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott. Now operated as a tourist attraction, visitors can learn more about Scott and explore the stunning gardens surrounding the building. There is also a café and a gift shop, as well as various exhibitions.
Galashiels is also renowned as a top shopping destination in the Scottish Borders, home to both national brands and independent shops. As well as well-known chains like Argos, TK Maxx, and Matalan, you can also nip into charming local businesses like family-run music shop Music Station and antique store The Vintage Besoms.
Meanwhile, when it comes to food and drink, Galashiels has lots to offer as well. The town features a wealth of different restaurants, cafés, and takeaways that cater to every possible taste, while there are also plenty of pubs and bars dotted around where you can enjoy a tipple or pint.
Among the top eateries in Galashiels are Indian restaurant Gala Tandoori, French-European bistro Cafe Auberge, and Cindy’s Caribbean Street Food. Popular pubs around town include The Salmon Inn, Niki’s Lounge Bar, and The Auld Mill Inn, as well as the 1953 Bar and Restaurant.
