Two Borders towns have been named among the most scenic in Scotland to visit this winter.

Both Kelso and Melrose feature in a new study conducted by House of Bruar, which ranked picturesque Scottish towns based on the number of Instagram post hashtags they had received.

Kelso topped the list as the most picturesque Scottish town for a winter visit, boasting more than 182,000 Instagram hashtags.

Melrose also made the list, securing tenth position with 1,800 hashtags.

The House of Bruar report on Kelso said: "This town is a popular choice for visitors from nearby counties due to its close proximity to the Scottish border, making it a great option for those looking to experience the sights of Scotland on a shorter break.

"Visitors to the town can pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs at the market and enjoy the picturesque streets lined with snow."

The other towns on this list from second to ninth were Portree, Linlithgow, Crieff, Millport, Kirkcudbright, Pittenweem, Plockton, and Tobermory.

On Melrose, the report said: "Right on the Scottish Border, this town is easily accessible from most of the UK and offers scenic views of the nearby historic Abbey Ruins.

"While this town is great to visit all year round, the abbey looks particularly magical during the winter months, when you’ll get to experience the snow for a true winter wonderland."

Not only was Kelso rated first for small town winter escapes but it was rated fourth on the overall most scenic winter destinations in Scotland.

The winner was Edinburgh Castle, with more than 740,000 hashtags on Instagram.

Second was Ben Nevis with 284,000 and third was the Royal Mile with 213,000 hashtags.

Other winter destinations mentioned on the report include the Kelpies, Stirling Castle, The Old Man of Storr on Skye and the Glenfinnan Viaduct near Fort William.

House of Bruar's study aims to highlight these small-town winter escapes, perfect for those seeking a cosy countryside retreat or a short break to experience the beauty of Scotland.