Explore the Saltburn-like palace of Sir Walter Scott just one hour away from Edinburgh

Scotland, a land steeped in history and home to legendary figures like Rabbie Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and Arthur Conan Doyle, offers tourists a wealth of exploration opportunities.

However, one often overlooked figure who has significantly shaped the world's perception of Scotland is Sir Walter Scott. Tourists seeking an exciting excursion can visit Scott's former residence, Abbotsford, located just an hour away from Edinburgh and which bears a striking resemblance to the residence featured in the film Saltburn.

A renowned author, Scott drew inspiration from his homeland's rich history, becoming one of the most successful writers of all time and his most famous works include Ivanhoe and Rob Roy, which have been widely read and adapted worldwide.

He holds the distinction of being the second most quoted person in the Oxford English Dictionary, surpassed only by William Shakespeare. His influence extended to royalty and he played a significant role in shaping Scotland's image, encapsulated in tartan and shortbread tins.

Abbotsford, one of the world's most famous homes, sits on the picturesque banks of the River Tweed, nestled between Melrose and Galashiels. It lies at the heart of a landscape steeped in folklore and legend, reports the Scottish Daily Express.

The house is credited with sparking the Scots Baronial architecture trend and served as a source of inspiration for Scott's novels.

The resort has become a major tourist hotspot in the borders, drawing in thousands of visitors annually. It features a Witch Corner, a supernatural sculpture trail inspired by the Scottish legends and folklore that influenced Sir Scott.

The location is easily accessible via public transport with trains running every half an hour along the Borders Railway from Edinburgh Waverley. There are also numerous signs on the A68 and A7 guiding you to the destination, just an hour away from the capital city.

Historic Houses characterises it as "a monument to the tastes, talents and achievements of its creator, one of Scotland's most important national figures; a renowned nineteenth-century writer and 'Great Scot' who changed how the world saw Scotland and Scotland saw itself."

They further stated: "Located in the heart of the beautiful Borders countryside, Abbotsford was built by Sir Walter Scott in the nineteenth century as a family home, work space and private museum and his interests can be seen in the amazing gothic architecture and interiors jam-packed with fascinating curios, artefacts, books and stories galore."

"Visitors can learn about Sir Walter Scott through visiting the historic house and free exhibition. Browse Abbotsford's shop, enjoy seasonal food in Ochiltree's cafe or simply relax in the beautiful Regency Walled Gardens and tranquil woodlands."

Sir Scott was a favourite among the royals in the 1800s, with George IV bestowing upon him a baronetcy and requesting his hosting of a Royal visit to Edinburgh in 1822, where the king donned a tartan kilt. His Waverley novels were devoured by tourists who fell in love with all things Scottish, putting Scotland on the global map.

Abbotsford's rooms remain as Sir Scott left them, open to the public since early 1833, a mere five months after his passing. The visitor books are filled with the signatures of renowned writers such as Charles Dickens, Charlotte Bronte and Oscar Wilde, all of whom drew inspiration from Sir Scott.

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