Old Mill, Dod Mill

About this listing

Soul mates and sweethearts will swoon over this sophisticated hideaway; a 1700’s rural mill conversion complete with rainforest shower, deep bath and crackling wood burning stove tucked quietly in the rural beauty of the wild Scottish Borders.

Old Mill

The wild beauty of the Scottish Borders will soothe the soul; and Old Mill sits on the doorstep of its woodland, rivers and landscape. Expect total tranquillity offering a timeless escape for couples. Nestling on the outskirts of Lauder your stylish hideaway for two, with relaxed open-plan living awaits you. Enter the Old Mill where the aubergine-hued kitchen is complete with kitchen island, fan oven, 2-ring hob, dishwasher, large fridge-freezer, kettle, toaster. The large dining area opens out into a spacious double-height living space. Flick on the Nespresso coffee machine for a breakfast latte and head out the back door for alfresco dining by the river. As the night draws in and the stars twinkle above, turn in and head to the mezzanine king size bedroom sleeping two, complete with all bedding and towels (extra guests can be added on request) with its handmade shutters and in-room roll top bathtub. There are unlimited logs for the stove, thick stone walls and under floor heating – perfect for long lies and winter breaks.

Five star activities in the Scottish Borders

On the banks of the Boondreigh River, the mill lade and mill pond are perfect to take a stroll along or head into Lauder close by where there are coffee shops, artisan treats, a deli, wonderful bakery, shops, art gallery and even a fairy-tale castle, Thirlestane, to explore. Immerse yourself in this stunning location and home of an 18th century grain miller. The Old Mill is just 15-30 minutes to many Scottish Border towns and historic sites. It’s also an easy day trip to Edinburgh by car. Immerse your senses in interesting history, breath taking scenery and local culture with castles to golf courses, festivals to fishing spots, biking paths, geology, nature paths, horse riding trails and exhilarating outdoor sports to explore.

You can walk the Southern Upland Way or visit Abbotsford House, Melrose, the home of Scotland’s literary great, Sir Walter Scott or visit Floors Castle, Kelso. Take in Mellerstain House and Gardens, the Border Sculpture Park, Manderston House, Duns Castle, Bowhill House in Selkirk or head for Lochcarron Visitor Centre, where much of Scotland’s tartan is made. Sample a dram at the Borders Distillery making the region’s first single malt whisky and craft gin.. Bike enthusiasts can head for 7Stanes at Glentress, which offers excellent mountain biking trails.

The Tour de Lauder cycle race is held in Spring. All year round, there are brilliant road cycle routes from Dod Mill – a very short stint (200m) on the A697 takes you to wonderful minor roads over hills and through open landscapes.

A huge spectator sport locally is the Lauder Common Riding, which takes place early August where hundreds of horses and riders gather to partake in the ancient practice of checking the boundaries of the town’s common lands. There are also historical gems to explore including Melrose Abbey, Kelso Abbey, Jedburgh Abbey and Dryburgh Abbey all offering a wonderful walk with stunning photographic opportunities. Other places of interest include Scott’s View, The Eildon Hills and The River Tweed.

Walkers will love the rolling hillsides and nature enthusiasts can enjoy the surround sound nature, spotting heron, wild ducks, salmon, trout, deer, hedgehogs, owls and maybe even an otter feeding at dusk or dawn.

Eating out offers fine dining to relaxed coffee spots as well as specialist delis with artisan fresh home baking to take home with you. There are numerous restaurants that offer fresh local produce, celebratory locations to light suppers within easy reach.

Rates : From £425 per week.

Guest Reviews:

“Absolutely gorgeous accommodation with peaceful setting. Includes everything you need and more. A beautiful place if you’re looking for a restful retreat with so many thoughtful and luxury details. We can’t wait to return. Thank you so much!”

“We had a wonderful stay with our dog Bella last week. Beautiful, stylish, thoughtful, relax… we loved it! Hope to come back one day. 5 stars, definitely! Thank you so much!”

“Beautiful and quirky place. The little touches, such as the bath bombs and face masks were great. The grounds around the building are beautiful; there are sheep to feed and scenic walks. I very much enjoyed my stay.”

“I stayed at Dod Mill last week whilst working in the area. It looked like a great place and I was not disappointed! The attention to detail was incredible from the check-in experience, little treats, and incredible surroundings. Even during a freezing cold week! This is definitely a place to check-out, highly highly recommended! I’ll definitely be back to stay in some of the future buildings. Spotlessly clean, amazing woodburner, underfloor heating, comfy bed, cuddly sheep and a bath to die for! What else does one need!”