We are very lucky that one of our nearest villages is undoubtedly one of the loveliest in the whole of the country.
The picturesque Conservation Village of Denholm is built around two traditional Greens, which in days gone by was let for grazing to the butchers or smallholders.
In the middle of the Green stands Leyden's Monument which was erected in 1861. The Green has always been at the heart of village life. Weekly and half-weekly fairs used to be held here. Part of the base of an old mercat cross can still be seen inside the railings surrounding the monument.
John Leyden was born in 1775 in a cottage on the north side of the Green. His father, a shepherd, was descended from a servant from the university town of Leiden in Holland brought back to Scotland in the 16th century by one of the Douglas family who had studied there. At fifteen he set off for Edinburgh University, making most of the journey on foot. He qualified as both a Doctor and a Minister. Whilst there he collaborated with Sir Walter Scott in collecting ballads for the "Minstrelsy of the Scottish Borders".
Today the village has a thriving community life, local shops and local businesses including Denholm Meet, which downstairs has a superb restaurant and café and upstairs a renowned Antiques and Interiors shop.
Denholm Meet Restaurant and Cafe
The Denholm Meet is run by award winning chef Antonio Caterino and his wife Sara. Antonio has owned and run restaurants for many years in and around the Scottish Borders and also owns the Monte Cassino Italian Restaurant in Melrose.
Offering light lunches, teas, coffee, pastries etc, all prepared to a very high standard by this professional team. Evening dinner service in the licensed restaurant offers an intimate setting for a very enjoyable experience.
Denholm Antiques and Interiors
Run by Lynne and Pete Tyler, Denholm Antiques and Interiors offer an eclectic mixture of beautiful furniture, lighting, curtains, ceramics, jewellery and glassware brought together by ten of the regions finest collectors.
New and old, modern and antique, you'll be sure to find that special something you've been after for house, home or castle or maybe something for yourself or a friend and all at fantastic prices (they do gift vouchers too!)
If you are furnishing your home or just looking for that special present you won't be disappointed.