Paxton House is an 18th-century Palladian country house in Paxton, near Berwick-upon-Tweed, set above the River Tweed. A guided tour takes you through period rooms with Chippendale furniture, Georgian paintings and Adam interiors; the Picture Gallery holds more than 70 paintings from the National Galleries of Scotland. Outside, explore woodland paths, gardens and riverside walks, with a waterwheel, an ice house and a squirrel lookout to find. Families can follow trails or use the adventure playground, and the Stables Tearoom serves cakes, coffee and light meals.
A Georgian house by the Tweed
Built from 1758 for Patrick Home of Billie, Paxton House was designed by John Adam. Robert Reid designed its Regency extension, while Robert Adam’s work shaped the neo-classical rooms. The house changed little after its construction, apart from the addition of a picture gallery for Patrick Home’s paintings.
The house sits within parkland and gardens beside the River Tweed. Paths lead through woodland and along the riverbank, where you can look for wildlife. The grounds also contain a waterwheel, an ice house and a squirrel lookout.
What to see inside
The interior is viewed on a guided tour. It includes twelve period rooms with Adam interiors and furniture by Thomas Chippendale and Trotter. The tour also covers the house’s history and its former occupants.
The Picture Gallery displays more than 70 paintings from the National Galleries of Scotland. Other interior details include a restored Georgian kitchen. Allow time to take in the rooms and collections as the guided route moves through the house.
Walks and family activities
The grounds combine gardens, woodland routes and riverside paths. Families can look for the teddy bear trail inside the house, follow outdoor trails or spend time at the adventure playground. Children’s activities vary by season, so check what is running before you visit.
Boat trips on the Tweed are another way to explore the river and learn about local wildlife and history from the skippers. A nearby chain suspension bridge is also mentioned as a point of interest.
The Stables Tearoom
The tearoom is in the converted stables and serves coffee, cakes and light meals, with vegetarian choices available. It makes a convenient stop after touring the house or walking the grounds. The menu can vary, so check what is available when you arrive.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you go inside Paxton House without a tour?
No. The house interior is accessible only on a guided tour, so book a tour if you want to see the rooms.
How long does the Paxton House tour take?
The guided tour takes about 75 minutes. Leave additional time for the grounds and riverside walks.
What can children do at Paxton House?
Children can follow a teddy bear trail in the house, take part in outdoor trails and use the adventure playground. Activities may vary by season.
Is there a tearoom at Paxton House?
Yes. The Stables Tearoom serves coffee, cakes and light meals, including vegetarian options.
