WHOLE - Longleefoot & Cauldshiels, Melrose, Scottish Borders, TD6

Extensive and Scenic Farmland with Amenity and Conservation Appeal

Description

Longleefoot comprises an extensive and diverse landholding extending to approximately 813 acres. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Eildon Hills, the property includes a mix of productive farmland, native and commercial woodlands, and tranquil lochs.

The farmland offers a well-balanced combination of arable, silage, and pasture ground, arranged over two adjoining parcels connected by a small linking area between the northwest corner of Lot 1 and the southeast corner of Lot 2.

In total, the holding includes approximately 181 acres of arable/silage ground, 514 acres of pasture, 82 acres of woodland, and two lochs extending to approximately 29 acres.

The land rises from around 210 metres above sea level near the southern boundary to approximately 329 metres at the top of Cauldshiels Hill. Fields are well-proportioned and served by a network of internal tracks. Boundaries are defined by fencing or stone dykes, with well-positioned gates to facilitate efficient stock movement. The land is in good heart and is predominantly classified as Grade 4.2, with areas of Grade 5.1, according to the James Hutton Institute for Soil Research.

The amenity value is enhanced by mature coniferous plantations and younger broadleaved woodlands, thoughtfully laid out to provide shelter, sport, and amenity alongside commercial timber potential. With 82 acres of woodland and varied topography, the property offers excellent sporting potential. Existing shoot infrastructure is in place, with scope for further development, particularly through the establishment of game crops. The woodlands also provide cover for roe deer.

Several lochs and ponds across the farm are a haven for wildlife and offer additional amenity, including opportunities for wild swimming and informal sport.

The land is offered for sale as a whole or in the following two lots:

Lot 1 – Longleefoot – 431 acres
Lot 2 – Land at Cauldshiels – 382 acres


Lot 1 - Longleefoot

The land at Longleefoot extends to about 431 acres and is contained within a ring fence, with good access off a minor public road immediately to the east. The land enjoys a predominantly south-facing aspect and rises from about 220 metres to 270 metres above sea level.

The fields at the eastern end of the farm are used for arable cropping and silage production, with an average field size of 25 acres. The remainder of the land is primarily utilised for grazing. A central internal track provides easy access to the majority of the fields and woodland.

There is an area of commercial woodland extending to about 49 acres, which provides shelter for stock and, in the coming years, will provide an income to the farm when it is ready to be harvested.

There is a charming loch (Lady Moss) which offers both sporting, conservation, and amenity aspects.

The arable land is currently farmed under a contract farming agreement, while the pasture is occupied under a seasonal grazing agreement, which comes to an end on [date to be confirmed].

Lot 2

Cauldshiels lies on the western side of the farm and extends to about 382 acres. The land comprises 299 acres of permanent pasture, 24 acres of rough grazing, and 32 acres of woodland. This useful, ring-fenced block of grazing rises from Cauldshiels Loch, at about 240 metres above sea level, to the top of Cauldshiels Hill at around 320 metres, from where there are panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. Cauldshiels Hill is also the site of a former fort, which is designated as a scheduled ancient monument.

The land is predominantly utilised for grazing; however, in the past, some fields have been used for silage crops, which are typically baled and used for winter feed. There is a useful Dutch barn close to the western boundary, providing a convenient space for storing machinery or feed supplies.

Cauldshiels Loch extends to about 25 acres and is a particularly attractive feature of the property. It offers a peaceful setting for enjoying the outdoors, with opportunities for family picnics, wildlife observation, and wild swimming.

Lot 2 is accessed via a hard track in third-party ownership, known as Fingers Access Road, which leads from the public road to the land. There is an unrestricted servitude right of pedestrian and vehicular access over the route shown in red on the accompanying plan.

Available in Addition
Prospective purchasers should note that Longleefoot Farmhouse is available by separate negotiation. The property comprises a detached farmhouse that has been extensively renovated, along with a range of useful outbuildings and a general-purpose steel-framed shed.

A short distance from the farmhouse are two former cottages, which offer potential for development, subject to the necessary consents.

To the rear of the farmhouse lies an area of woodland extending to approximately 2 acres.

Location

Longleefoot is located in the Scottish Borders, just south of Melrose, in an area of unspoilt countryside. Positioned on elevated ground to the west of the Eildon Hills, the surrounding landscape features gently rolling farmland, mature woodland, and occasional lochans.

Melrose, approximately three miles away, is a vibrant town with a strong community and a range of independent shops, restaurants, and cafés. It hosts several annual events, including the Melrose Sevens rugby tournament and the Borders Book Festival. Galashiels, around six miles from Longleefoot, offers a broader selection of amenities, including national retailers and supermarkets.

Edinburgh, approximately 41 miles to the north, is accessible via the A7 through Lauderdale. Rail services to Edinburgh are available from Tweedbank Station, which is about four miles away. Berwick-upon-Tweed, around 36 miles to the east, provides East Coast Main Line services to London King’s Cross.

The Scottish Borders is renowned for its scenic landscape and productive farmland. The nearby River Tweed is a celebrated salmon river, and the Lammermuir Hills to the northeast offer managed grouse moors. Recreational facilities in the area include several golf courses, such as the 18-hole championship course at The Roxburghe and the 9-hole Melrose Golf Club, located on the edge of the town. Kelso Racecourse is also within reach.

The area benefits from established agricultural infrastructure, including grain merchants, machinery dealerships, and livestock markets at Newton St Boswells (approximately four miles) and Wooler (approximately 35 miles). Highlights in the rural calendar include the Border Union Show and the Kelso Ram Sales, the latter being the largest event of its kind in Europe.




Acreage: 813 Acres

Directions

Directions

Lot 1:
From both the north and south, follow the A68 to the Ravenswood Roundabout. Take the exit onto the A6091, signposted to Melrose. Continue on this road for approximately 1.5 miles, then turn right onto the B6374, signposted to Melrose. Proceed into the town centre and take the first junction on the left onto the B6359. Follow this road for about 2 miles, and the entrance to Lot 1 can be found on the right-hand side.

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Lot 2:
From both the north and south, follow the A68 to the Ravenswood Roundabout. Take the exit onto the A6091, signposted to Melrose. Continue on this road for approximately 3 miles and turn left at the Borders General Hospital. Follow this road for approximately 1.5 miles, and the entrance to Lot 2 can be found on the left-hand side.

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