Kelso's long and varied history is an interesting one indeed, and The Cross Keys Hotel - situated on the cobbled Market Place - makes regular appearances in the town's story. The current building dates back to 1769, although it is reputed that the original inn, situated next door, once welcomed a visit from Bonnie Prince Charlie before being knocked down and rebuilt by wealthy merchant James Dickson. Since then the hotel has provided shelter to weary travellers, hosted grand balls and banquets and served as a coaching inn. Today, with its recently revamped Mackintosh-inspired ground floor, The Cross Keys greets visitors planning to explore the local area and venture into Edinburgh.

Marcello and Luca Becattelli offer a warm and very comfortable break from the day-to-day grind and, if pounding the tourist trail leaves you in need of some recuperation and refuelling, The Cross Keys Restaurant offers menus that fuse modern European cuisine with some traditional Scottish favourites. The à la carte and table d'hote menus offer much in the way of locally sourced produce, resulting in full-flavoured, freshtasting dishes. Sample the likes of locally caught haggis with crushed neaps and tatties, Eyemouth mussels in garlic, or spaghetti and meatballs (made the Marcello way) for starters, then proper Kelso beef steaks with Portobello mushroom, roasted Barbary duck and orange glaze, or tweed salmon with lemon butter sauce. To finish, an indulgent chocolate fondant or maybe poached pear with berry pannacotta. Bar lunches and early suppers offer some traditional flavours at very competitive prices and, with their trademark fish and chips too - which may just be the best in the Borders - The Cross Keys has something to get everyone's tastebuds buzzing.

No event is too big or too small for The Cross Keys, and if you can't go to them, they'll come to you with their fantastic outside catering service. If you find yourself in Kelso itself, you'll discover history and sights that will capture your imagination, and the perfect getaway at The Cross Keys.