THE VISITOR CENTRE

Arrive at Abbotsford's award-winning Visitor Centre and be welcomed by our friendly and knowledgeable staff who will help you to plan an interesting and intriguing visit to one of Scotland's most important and unique cultural landmarks

Explore our free exhibition, offering an introduction to Scott's extraordinary life, legacy and enduring influence. Browse our carefully curated shop, showcasing beautifully crafted gifts, books and produce from Scotland's finest makers, or enjoy freshly prepared seasonal food and drink in Ochiltree's Café.

From the Visitor Centre, set out to discover Scott's historic home, wander the award-winning gardens and wider estate, or follow our Witch Corner sculpture trail through the grounds. Whether you're visiting for an hour or a full day, the Visitor Centre is the perfect place to begin your Abbotsford experience.

Exhibition

Visit our permanent exhibition in the Visitor Centre and discover the life story of one of Scotland’s greatest men-of-letters for yourself. Follow Scott’s remarkable story from his birth in Edinburgh in 1771 to his childhood in the Borders, professional legal career, meteoric rise to fame as the author of the Waverley novels, financial ruin in 1826 and the cultural legacy he left to Scotland and the world.

The exhibition features rarely seen items from the Abbotsford collections, including design books and accounts created during the construction of Scott’s beloved home at Abbotsford and visitor books containing the signatures of many notable figures including Charles Dickens, Charlotte Brontë and Oscar Wilde who came to Abbotsford in the years following Scott’s death in 1832.

Shop

Take a piece of Scotland home with you. Our carefully curated shop celebrates the country's finest makers, with an emphasis on locally sourced, seasonal and artisan products, many of which are made exclusively in Scotland.

Discover an inspiring collection of books, including the works of Sir Walter Scott, alongside beautiful homeware, textiles, food and drink, jewellery and gifts that reflect Scotland's rich heritage and contemporary craftsmanship. Whether you're searching for a thoughtful memento, a unique present or a taste of the Borders, you'll find something to remember your visit to Abbotsford.

Ochiltree's Café

Ochiltree's (named after Edie Ochiltree, a character in Scott's novel The Antiquary) Café offers stunning views over the walled garden and historic house. Our chefs source the best local produce to create a fresh, seasonal menu using products from the kitchen garden wherever possible. We serve hot and cold beverages, cakes, light bites and snacks, a cafe menu and afternoon tea with alfresco dining in the summer months on our balcony. We also have our horsebox outdoor catering for those on the move or wishing to picnic in the meadows.

Ochiltree's Café is fully licensed and is open daily.