The main town of Lauderdale and bounded on three sides by the Lammermuir Hills, Lauder is said to be the birthplace of St. Cuthbert. Its single main street widening into a market place dominated by the town’s Old Tolbooth maintains its original medieval style. The A68 road South lies along the route of the famous Roman road 'Dere Street' and has witnessed the passage of many armies while the present-day Southern Upland Way crosses Lauder on its way to the East Coast.
The remains of an important Medieval Hospital and Medical Centre lies on Soutra Hill, near Lauder, currently being lovingly restored by archaeologists and historians. To the South or Lauder is Earlston and the Rhymer's Tower once the home of Thomas the Rhymer the 13th century poet famed for his gift of prophesy.
Thirlestane Castle (seat of the Earls of Lauderdale - the Maitland family and built in 1590 ) lies on the edge of Lauder overlooking the Leader Water. Built on the site of an ancient 13th century fort, the Castle contains 17th century ceilings, many pictures, Maitland family treasures, and ancient toy collection and restored kitchen/laundry. Two miles away is an old Tower House. Activities/Facilities: Lauder has a 9-hole golf course, the Castle grounds have lovely woodland walks and picnic tables and, in July each year, the famous Thirlestane Horse Trials are held in the Castle grounds.
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