TOURISM in the Borders is set for a shot in the arm this autumn and winter, new booking trends suggest.

VisitScotland’s latest UK and Scotland Sentiment Tracker indicates that autumn trip intentions to the region are strong relative to 2022, with families dominating across the months of October to December.

And there are lots of new seasonal activities to enjoy across the Borders as the days get shorter and the clocks get set to go back.

Thirlestane Castle in Lauder has extended its open season for daily guided tours until the end of October for the first time this year, due to the success of the summer season.

Monteviot House & Gardens in Jedburgh has announced the launch of the first Monteviot Lights festival between November 30 and December 10.

The inaugural festival aims to attract 7,500 visitors, while focusing on long-term growth and sustainability, aiming to preserve the natural environment that the event will illuminate.

Other seasonal activities include a new woodland light trail at Traquair House in Innerleithen and a new Halloween trail at Abbotsford House near Melrose.

Edward Maitland-Carew, from Thirlestane Castle, said: “We have been delighted to welcome thousands of visitors from across the world to Thirlestane Castle this year. Our guided tours have been such a success, that for the first time we have decided to extend them until the end of October. The castle is brought to life by our experienced guides, showcasing the impressive state rooms, decorative plasterwork ceilings, and extensive Maitland family portrait collection.

“By visiting or staying at Thirlestane Castle, our guests are helping to support the Thirlestane Castle Trust and preserve this wonderful building for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations. It is wonderful to see that tourism is flourishing in the Scottish Borders, and we hope that many more people will visit Thirlestane for our extended tours.”

Michael, 13th Marquis of Lothian, from Monteviot House & Gardens, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the Scottish Borders’ first winter light trail; it is thrilling for me to see the gardens my family and I have spent many years creating come to life with the beautiful lighting trail that is planned. As a family we have had a vision for this event, and it is such an exciting time to see it all come to life. It will not only be a wonderful event for us at Monteviot but we hope for everyone across the Borders.”

Gordon Smith, VisitScotland's destination development director, said it was "fantastic" to see a host of events taking place in the region over the winter months.

He added: "As well as adding to the region’s renowned tourism offering, they will help attract more visitors to the region at what is a popular time for families enjoying the school holidays.

“Scotland’s tourism and events offering is no longer confined to just a few months, and we are seeing visitors keen to explore the country at different times of the year.

"At VisitScotland, we are focussed on the responsible growth of our industry, including the regional and seasonal spread of visitors.

“Every time visitors – whether here for a day or longer – use a restaurant, order a drink at the bar or buy a souvenir to remember their holiday experience, they are contributing to our valuable visitor economy, in turn creating jobs and sustaining communities. This is vitally important for the long-term recovery of our industry.”