The House in the Hill: a country escape perfect for nature lovers & wildlife watchers...

Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, The House in the Hill offers more than just a peaceful country escape - it's a chance to slow down and reconnect with the nature that surrounds us every day. From the moment you arrive, open skies and quiet landscapes create the perfect setting to unwind, breathe deeply, and enjoy the simple beauty of nature.

One of the most special parts of staying here is the wildlife you're likely to encounter during your visit. Early mornings and evenings are often the best time to spot deer moving across the hillside or grazing quietly in the distance. You may also catch sight of the hares darting across the hill, especially during the quieter times of the day. If you're really lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of otters playing in the waterways around the farm too - we've only seen them a couple of times so far this year as they certainly like to keep themselves to themselves. There is something incredibly calming about watching these animals in their natural habitat, completely undisturbed by the rush of modern life so many of our guests book to escape from.

Bird lovers will find plenty to enjoy too. The area surrounding the property is home to a variety of native birds, including important ground-nesting species that thrive in these peaceful, open habitats. Their gentle soundtrack of birdsong throughout the day adds to the sense of calm that makes time spent here feel so restorative. If you'd like to know which birds are singing to you as you drink your morning coffee on the rooftop terrace, we recommend downloading the 'Merlin Bird ID' app. This handy little app can be used to record birdsong anywhere (make sure you select Europe: Britain and Ireland in the My offline birds section in the settings), great for adults and children alike looking to learn and understand more about our winged companions in the countryside.

As dusk begins to fall, keep an eye out for foxes making their quiet evening journeys across the farm. Seeing a fox in the wildlife is a memorable experience for many, and we're lucky enough to have a family of foxes who have raised their cubs on the land around The House in the Hill for the last few years.

Adding to the charm of the surroundings are our Cheviot sheep that graze the hill where our luxury holiday let is built. Their gentle presence feels perfectly at home in the landscape and gives Townfoot Hill its timeless countryside character. Watching them drift slowing across the hillside throughout the day is part of what makes staying at The House in the Hill feel so peaceful and grounding.

Spending time in nature has a way of helping us reset. Studies continue to show the benefits of being outdoors - from reducing stress and improving sleep to boosting mood and helping us feel more connected and present. At The House in the Hill, nature isn't something you have to search for; it's all around you. Whether you're walking along Dere Street, enjoying a cup of tea or coffee outside, or simply watching the light changing across the landscape, there's a sense of calm that naturally settles in.

For anyone looking to escape busy routines and reconnect with the outdoors, The House in the Hill offers the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of the countryside, and the wildlife that calls it home, all year round.

Book your escape to the country now, nature await.