Gattonside, Melrose, TD6

Allerly House is a superb example of period architecture in a beautifully established setting, just a short walk from historic Melrose. Built in 1842 for Sir David Brewster, the renowned scientist and inventor, the house showcases hallmarks of early 19th-century design—symmetrical proportions, tall sash windows and a strong sense of presence. Set behind a wide gravel sweep and framed by mature planting, it sits beautifully in its surroundings and offers an exceptional standard of refined family living.

A magnificent reception hall instantly sets the tone, with a grand cantilevered staircase rising beneath a glazed oval cupola. Decorative tiling, painted panelling and a woodburning stove add warmth and character. To one side lies a generous drawing room; opposite, a formal dining room with open views to the Eildon Hills. These rooms retain a wealth of original detail, including tall ceilings and fine fireplaces. A snug/TV room, library, study and games room offer further family space.

The kitchen/breakfast room is positioned to the rear and opens onto a broad stone terrace via a full-height arched glazed screen. A two-oven AGA, NEFF oven and grill, timber flooring and freestanding furniture give the space a relaxed, country-house feel. French doors flood the room with light and link it to the garden.

Upstairs, a spacious first-floor landing features a quiet reading area lined with fitted bookcases. There are six well-proportioned bedrooms, including a generous principal suite with views over the grounds, dressing room and en-suite bathroom. The remaining rooms are served by a family bathroom and a shower room. A box room and extensive built-in storage offer practicality.

At the entrance to the drive, well screened from the main house, sits Allerly Lodge—a detached cottage extending to approx. 1,038 sq ft. The lodge includes a kitchen/dining room, sitting room, bathroom and three bedrooms. Ideal as a guest cottage, staff accommodation or holiday let (subject to consents), it enjoys its own access and garden, making it independent yet convenient.

The gardens and grounds offer privacy, variety and maturity. Extending to around 8 acres, they frame the house while providing open space, amenity and far-reaching views. A gravel sweep at the front is bordered by lawns and specimen trees, creating a formal approach. To the side, the gardens open into a broad lawn with deep herbaceous borders backed by a curved stone wall. A generous terrace off the kitchen is ideal for al fresco dining and leads to the swimming pool—set in an elevated position with outstanding south-facing views. Surrounded by lawn and a sun terrace at one end, the pool is a standout feature.

To one side, a kitchen garden and orchard offer potential for productive growing. The surrounding paddocks are well suited to equestrian or smallholding use and are enclosed by woodland and hedgerows for additional privacy.

A full-size grass tennis court sits at the bottom of the garden, with a timber summer house offering a peaceful retreat or entertaining space.

Outbuildings include garaging, workshops and stores, all discreetly positioned. A studio/office, converted from part of a former barn, provides a wonderful space for working from home, creative use or additional accommodation (subject to consent). Behind the house, a courtyard leads to traditional stone stables, a boiler room and a wine cellar. The grounds also feature a charming greenhouse, while the paddocks are equipped with field shelters, offering excellent equestrian facilities.

Altogether, Allerly House represents a rare opportunity to acquire a beautifully composed and well-balanced country home in one of the Scottish Borders' most desirable settings.

Gattonside is one of the most desirable villages in the Scottish Borders, known for its attractive architecture, peaceful setting, and strong, active community. It offers easy access to Melrose, with a footbridge over the River Tweed linking the two communities and placing Melrose's amenities within easy walking distance. These include a variety of independent shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as a supermarket, health centre, and professional services. Melrose also hosts the annual Borders Book Festival and the Melrose 7s rugby tournament. Within Gattonside itself are two excellent restaurants, The Hoebridge and Seasons, both just a short walk from the house.

Melrose is home to the renowned St Mary's School, with a wider choice of respected primary and secondary options throughout the area, including Earlston High School and Longridge Towers. The Borders General Hospital lies under two miles from the property.

Tweedbank Station, 3 miles away, provides a direct rail link to Edinburgh Waverley in around an hour, making the house well suited to those who wish to commute or maintain close ties to the city. Edinburgh itself is approximately 38 miles by road with Edinburgh Airport less than an hour and a half away with an expanding network of routes across Europe, North America, The Middle East and China.

The area is known for its natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle, with nearby opportunities for walking, fishing, shooting, cycling, golf and riding. The Eildon Hills and River Tweed are within easy reach, while the wider Borders landscape offers endless scope for exploration.