Tweedside Hotel

For the last six years, this charming 19th-Century building has been home to Christina and Derek Ritchie, and in that time they have transformed it into what is commonly thought of as the friendliest pub in town. Bringing different skills to the table, this couple have gradually turned the Tweedside into a relaxed home-from-home hotel, contemporary restaurant - totally renovating the whole establishment at the end of last year - and relaxed bar with plenty to keep the whole family amused.

Upstairs are five lovely bedrooms - the perfect place to stay if taking advantage of the many outdoor activities presented by the surrounding countryside. Popular with bikers, walkers, fishermen and, of course, golfers (there are three major golf courses within a few miles), the upstairs accommodation can be hired as a whole for parties to enjoy.

Downstairs is stylish yet relaxed, with a fully stocked bar manned by Christina, Derek and their family friends. This is a real family affair, and as a result the atmosphere is jovial, friendly and laidback, in fact perfect for tucking into some of Christina's excellent home cooking. Expect traditional pub fare created with care, thought and bags of flavour. You might start with classic prawn cocktail, crisp garlic bread or warming soups like garden vegetable or cream of tomato. Main courses are equally mouth-watering and offer steak and ale pie with a deliciously rich gravy, and beautifully battered fish and chips to name but two. If you fancy a little spice in your life, tuck into a homemade curry or chilli brimming with kidney beans and plenty of kick. There are also lighter meals for lunch or an afternoon snack, with jacket potatoes overflowing with toppings, crusty baguettes with various fillings and popular homemade 6oz burgers. Desserts are tempting and obviously homemade too, with chocolate cake topped with strawberries and cream and, that Scottish treat, crumbly shortbread. Christina also has plans to grow her own organic vegetables for use in fragrant soups and hearty rustic dishes - proper country cooking without unnecessary frills or fancy, just great taste. Summer presents the opportunity to light the barbecue and get some sunshine on the patio out back. These regular barbecues are open to one and all, but, if you are hosting a special occasion, you can opt to reserve the function room, with French doors opening onto the patio, and ask for your event to be catered by the team with either a barbecue or hot or cold buffet. If your event is a little bigger - perhaps a wedding - you can opt to hire the whole hotel, including the bedrooms, as a whole package. Christina is a woman of many talents and, as a qualified florist, she can even do your flowers for you.

But it doesn't end there. There is plenty of entertainment throughout the week, with a disco or band most Saturdays during the summer and a great quiz every Friday - the whole pub is encouraged to grab a pen and join in. For those who enjoy some serious competition, join the Tweedside for Sunday afternoon or Thursday night poker, and make sure you bring your game face. So, whether you're looking for an evening with friends and a few drinks, a meal with the family, a night of fun and frolics, or a base from which to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside, Tweedside Hotel fits the bill every time.