Galashiels has some fantastic architectural landmarks, dating as far back as the 16th century and some as recent as the 2010s and 2020s. This trail is a fantastic way to learn more about architecture and how it has evolved over the centuries, while also visiting the town of Galashiels.

Just follow the map and scan the QR code at each location to get more information and know what to look out for. Make sure to use the hashtag #LoveGalashiels when sharing photos on social media!

About this trail
The ‘Looking up at Architecture’ trail celebrates the details of 13 buildings, within Galashiels, that contribute to making the town a ‘great place’.  They are all situated within, and just outwith, an easy 20-minute walk from the newly designed Great Tapestry of Scotland visitor attraction by Page Park Architects. The idea of ‘looking up’ was inspired by the construction of the building and the new opportunity that its full-length, first-floor windows would provide in letting people see the place from a fresh perspective. In particular, by offering stunning views across the town, in four different directions, and beyond to the lush, green hill-scape.

The map has been designed to encourage everyone – whether new or local – to ‘look up’ at the town’s architectural gems and learn about some of its details. Even if many may have walked past the buildings many times, they perhaps have just not noticed a particular aspect. The buildings have been selected to represent a mixture of ‘pretty and gritty’ styles. This is because we want to acknowledge a range of architectural fingerprints and creative skills from the town’s past. In keeping with that ‘hands-on’ theme and the town’s branding – all of the illustrations have been hand drawn and presented in black and white.  We hope that you enjoy ‘looking up’ at them!

Acknowledgements: The map has been created in association with the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) and the Edinburgh Architectural Association (EAA). Building mapping and artwork created by Mark Douglas, retired local architect and planner and local student architects Lara Gueldner and Sarah Lyons.