FOUR Tweeddale venues have been put forward for top tourism accolades.

Cringletie House Hotel in Peebles, Windelstraw in Walkerburn, Robert Smail’s Printing Works in Innerleithen and Kingsmuir House in Peebles have all been put on the shortlist to win a VisitScotland Scottish Thistle Award.

The four also join 11 other Borders businesses, which include Abbotsford House and Born in the Borders.

The awards were set up 25 years ago to recognise hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, visitor attractions and individuals who go the extra mile for customers.

And finalist are put into one of 16 regional categories.

Cringletie and Windelstraw are going head to head to be named Most Hospitable Hotel; Robert Smail’s Printing Works is in the Best Heritage Site category and Kingsmuir is hoping to become the Most Hospitable B&B/Guest House.

Paula Ward, VisitScotland regional director, told us: “I’m delighted to see that so many businesses and individuals from the Scottish Borders have been shortlisted for a regional Scottish Thistle Award.

“Every year, we see the tourism industry in the Scottish Borders continue to punch above its weight. 

“The fact that, this year, we have a remarkable 15 finalists is testament to the impressive range and depth of outstanding tourism businesses we have in the region.

“Tourism is more than a holiday experience, it creates jobs and sustains communities. 

“The Scottish Thistle Awards is a chance for us to celebrate those who work tirelessly to ensure that all visitors, whether from Scotland or further afield, enjoy a truly memorable experience.

“I wish all those shortlisted the best of luck in the regional final.”
A total of 350 businesses have been crowned winners over the past 25 years.

And this year’s local victors will be announced at the Lothian & Borders Regional Final held at Prestonfield House Hotel in Edinburgh on November 23.

Rebecca Brooks, chairwoman of the Scottish Thistle Awards industry panel, said: “It’s fantastic that in this special anniversary year, we’ve had such an overwhelming response to this year’s competition. 

“These awards aim to find the crème de la crème of Scotland’s tourism industry, to recognise the shining lights who have shown real commitment and dedication to the industry.”