Booze & Coos (and Views)
A whisky distillery, Highland cows, and Sir Walter Scott
When we booked a day tour of the Scottish Borders, we didn’t know that we’d also be getting the best tour guide we’ve ever had.
Chris picked us up wearing a traditional kilt, with blankets tucked in the back for the chilly weather, and a bottle of whisky ready in case the blankets weren’t enough to ward off the chill. Within the first few minutes, it was obvious why he has such a loyal following. He had the perfect combination of easy-going charm and endless local knowledge, and a fantastic sense of humor.
Our first stop was a distillery tour, but we arrived a little early. Rather than waiting around, Chris suggested we check out a nearby car boot sale.
If you’ve never heard of one, imagine a neighborhood garage sale where everyone drives their cars to a park, pops open the trunk (or “boot”), lays out their treasures, and spends the morning buying, selling, and catching up with friends. It felt like an extended family reunion.
We didn’t buy anything, but did pet an adorable golden retriever named Milo, and before long it was time for whisky.
The Borders Distillery is one of Scotland's newest distilleries, having revived whisky production in the Borders (near the border of England). We were especially lucky because one of the distillers himself led our tour, walking us through both the history of the distillery and every step of the whisky-making process. Our guide, Chris, also came on the tour with us and added his knowledge, having worked at a distillery himself.
One of the highlights was seeing the Spirit Safe up close. This brass-and-glass cabinet is where the freshly distilled spirit flows after leaving the stills and is tested for ABV (alcohol by volume). Historically, it was literally kept under lock and key so no one could sneak a taste before the government measured exactly how much spirit had been produced to collect the taxes. It’s one of the most iconic pieces of equipment in a Scotch distillery.
This tour ended the way every good distillery tour should: with tastings.
In addition to their Scotch whisky, they also produces vodka and gin, so there was something for everyone. As someone who still hasn’t fully embraced Scotch, I have to admit I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, (but maybe not quite as much as Shawn).
But let’s be honest... the whisky wasn’t the main event. Back in the car, we headed to Jacksons at Jedburgh, home to a herd of Highland cows, or “coos,” as they’re affectionately called in Scotland.
I’m honestly not sure who was more excited, me or Chris. His license plate even referenced Highland cows, and throughout the drive he enthusiastically shared just how much he loved them. We were very much on the same wavelength.
After arriving at the farm, we climbed aboard a long tractor-pulled trailer, listened to a quick safety briefing, then headed out into the pastures to see the herd.
The timing couldn’t have been better… there were babies! The moment I spotted my first tiny, fluffy coo, I actually had tears in my eyes. They’re somehow even cuter in person than they are in photos.
Our farm guide stopped the trailer among the herd and introduced us to the cows one by one, sharing their names, personalities, family relationships, and what it’s like raising these iconic Scottish animals. They were lured in with some of their favorite snacks, so we got a very close encounter with them.
Then somehow the day got even better. Back at the barn, we met several one year olds that are being socialized with people. We got to hand-feed them and brush their fluffy bangs. There was also one of the babies in the barn (!) who happily slurped handful after handful of feed from me. Heaven.
As if whisky and baby Highland coos weren't enough for one day, Chris suggested we visit a major Scottish landmark before heading back to Edinburgh, Abbotsford, the magnificent home of Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland's most celebrated authors.
The estate itself was stunning, filled with Scott's personal collections and original furnishings. One of my favorite touches was the audio guide, which was narrated in Sir Walter Scott's "voice." It added just the right amount of humor and personality, making the visit feel far more immersive than a traditional museum tour.
After leaving Abbotsford, we made a quick stop at Scott's View, one of the most famous overlooks in the Scottish Borders. The sweeping view stretches across the River Tweed to the Eildon Hills, and according to local tradition, it was Sir Walter Scott's favorite view in all of Scotland. Even after his death, the horses pulling his funeral procession reportedly paused here one final time, as if they knew their master would have wanted one last look. Standing there, it's easy to understand why he loved it.
When Chris dropped us back at our hotel, we were genuinely sad to say goodbye. It was like spending the day with a local friend.
Thanks to Chris, we came away with wonderful memories, a better appreciation for Scottish whisky, and approximately 437 photos of Highland coos.
We decided that returning to Scotland is a must, particularly to see the Highlands that Chris raved about. We’ll happily climb back into his car for another adventure.
As if the day hadn't already come full circle, after Chris dropped us back at our apartment, we decided to stretch our legs with a walk to the Scott Monument in the heart of Edinburgh. Earlier that afternoon, we'd visited Sir Walter Scott's favorite viewpoint and wandered through his home, so standing beneath the towering Gothic monument built in his honor felt like the perfect bookend to the day. It's impossible to miss, rising dramatically above Princes Street, and after spending the day learning about his life and legacy, it felt like saying a final goodbye to one of Scotland's greatest storytellers.
What a wonderful, wonderful day. Especially the baby coos. I may have to consider a Scotland trip in my future!