“We had a very relaxing and enjoyable week in Little Gem.”
Val and George are the perfect hosts, helpful and informative but never intrusive. The property was easy to find (look out for the blue ceramic plant pots at the entrance to the property), and parking was easy. There were chocolate biscuits, wine and cherry cake waiting for us on arrival – note to cottage-owners, this is much more welcoming than milk and tins of beans!!!
The accommodation is light and airy, surprisingly spacious; quiet, comfortable, spotlessly clean, very well furnished and equipped. When we reported a problem with the toaster a replacement arrived almost immediately. The only occasional irritant was the fluctuating internet connection, all other facilities were excellent. And the bird-feeders opposite the kitchen window were a regular source of entertainment.
Little Gem is well situated for a number of visits – Dryburgh and Melrose Abbeys are nearby, plus Abbotsford and Old Gala House museum; Smailholm Tower (an impressive Border Reivers' stronghold) and Flodden Field a little further. At Flodden the battlefield trail gives a real insight into the events of 1513, seeing the lie of the land explains a lot! There is also a tiny Information Centre in the adjacent Branxton village – housed in an old telephone kiosk.
Other recommendations: ‘Why Not?’ deli and coffee shop in Galashiels is brilliant. And the Esso service station just before Galashiels was the cheapest for petrol. (St Boswells was consistently the most expensive in the area.)
