Location and the Surrounding Area
Philiphaugh Estate is situated approximately 2 miles (3 km) west of the town of Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, lying just off the A708. The estate occupies a scenic position north of the confluence where the Yarrow Water and Ettrick Water meet. Historically significant as the site of the Battle of Philiphaugh in 1645, the surrounding area is characterized by a blend of lush farmland, ancient woodland—formerly part of the Ettrick Forest—and open hills. Nearby landmarks include the Bowhill Estate, the Yair Forest, and the village of Ettrickbridge, while the immediate grounds feature the restored Philiphaugh Victorian Walled Garden, the Waterwheel Café, and a specialized Salmon Viewing Centre on the banks of the Ettrick Water.
Are you planning a visit to the estate soon, or would you like to know more about the walking trails and wildlife in the area? Then why not take a walk around the Estate, taking in the breathtaking views and history, followed by a warming drink at the Waterwheel Cafe, craft your own bespoke gin at the Selkirk Distillery, investigate the Salmon Viewing Centre or find out more about the Golden Eagle at the Golden Eagle Information Centre.
Waterwheel Cafe
Whether it’s with friends or family, the menu offers a variety of options for you to choose from, for a deliciously light lunch or more, all incorporating locally sourced fresh produce, as well as a wide range of home baked sweet treats and fresh artisan coffee or even try our Philiphaugh Apple Juice straight from the Orchard. Come treat yourself, relax, take in the peaceful atmosphere, and stunning views along the valley and afterwards enjoy a beautiful walk along the banks of the River Ettrick.
Open Monday to Sunday from 10am-4pm
Tel:01750 22258 Email: thewaterwheel@ymail.com
Selkirk Distillers
The Old Joinery on Philiphaugh Estate is home to Selkirk’s first gin distillery. Operating since March 2019, Selkirk Distillers has benefited immensely from the great potential of its surroundings. Botanicals found either growing naturally on the estate grounds, or cultivated by the experienced gardeners in the walled gardens, have been successfully used within their popular products.
General enquiries: info@selkirkdistillers.com
Events/tastings: allan@selkirkdistillers.com
Salmon Viewing Centre
The salmon is known the world over as the King of the fishes, and the Ettrick River in the Scottish Borders is home to some of the finest salmon you will ever see.
Come visit our salmon viewing centre where we will take you on the journey of the development and different stages spanning a salmon’s life, explain the work of the Tweed Foundation in managing the Tweed catchment and show you live underwater footage of salmon, eels and other river fauna that travel through the pass.
Golden Eagle Information Centre
Our Eyrie: eagle information point sits within the waterwheel café, here you will discover how we and South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project looked to help increase numbers and prevent the loss of this wonderful species from southern skies and decrease any impact it may have on our ecosystem.
As you work your way through a series of informative displays, learn about the history of eagles, the pressures they face, their habits and habitat as well as the translocation process, enjoy our Interactive displays including a Guess Who style game and bird of prey identification sound board. Remember the golden eagle is a true icon of wild Scotland and the undisputed ruler of the skies.