Barns Tower

The castle has a colourful history that dates to 1190, and a bonus of staying here is you get a private tour. A couple of miles down the estate track, in an utterly tranquil position, is a historic hideaway of exceptional interest, a 14th-century defence tower, a bolthole for two with original features and every modern comfort. Enter the iron ‘yett’, wind up the narrow stone stair, and there is the well-equipped kitchen.

Up a wooden spiral stair to the sitting room, with its lovely open fire. Up again, to the romantic bedroom with a big sleigh bed under high rafters, and an open-plan bathroom and loo. High above the banks of the Tweed, the tower has small windows for green views to woods and down to river where brave souls can dip into the safe ‘swimming hole’ when the weather is kind.

It’s tempting to stay put but there’s plenty to do. After a day on the fairways, or fishing, raise a glass on your terrace for two.