Smailholm, a charming village in the Scottish Borders, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and welcoming community. Surrounded by the rolling hills and scenic beauty of Scotland, this area offers a tranquil lifestyle that draws many to consider it their home. In this article, we explore the best residential areas in Smailholm and the surrounding districts, examining their features, housing options, and average prices.
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Smailholm Village Centre

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The heart of Smailholm, this area features traditional stone-built homes and a vibrant community atmosphere. It is ideal for those who appreciate historic architecture and a close-knit neighborhood feel.
Characteristics of the Smailholm Village Centre
* Culture: Rich local history and community gatherings
* Transportation: Good road connections, limited public transport
* Services: Local shop, pubs, and community hall
* Environment: Friendly and welcoming, with a rural charm
Housing Options in the Smailholm Village Centre
Cottages, Terraced houses, Bungalows
Average Home Prices in the Smailholm Village Centre
* Buying: £150,000 – £250,000
* Renting: £700 – £1,000/month
Smailholm Farm Area

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Located just outside the main village, this area takes advantage of the rural landscape, offering spacious properties with land. It is perfect for families or individuals who are looking for a more secluded living environment.
Characteristics of the Smailholm Farm Area
* Culture: Agricultural lifestyle and outdoor activities
* Transportation: Car preferred for commuting, limited bus service
* Services: Nearby amenities in Smailholm, local farms
* Environment: Peaceful and tranquil, surrounded by nature
Housing Options in the Smailholm Farm Area
Farmhouses, Larger family homes
Average Home Prices in the Smailholm Farm Area
* Buying: £250,000 – £400,000
* Renting: £1,000 – £1,500/month
Bowden

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A nearby village to Smailholm, Bowden features a mix of modern and traditional housing, making it an attractive option for families and professionals alike. It benefits from local facilities and proximity to larger towns.
Characteristics of the Bowden
* Culture: Community events and social clubs
* Transportation: Accessible via the A68, good bus links
* Services: Schools, small shops, and parks
* Environment: Family-friendly with a suburban feel
Housing Options in the Bowden
Detached homes, Semi-detached houses, Apartments
Average Home Prices in the Bowden
* Buying: £180,000 – £300,000
* Renting: £750 – £1,200/month
Galashiels

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Close to Smailholm, Galashiels is a vibrant town offering a wider range of amenities and services. The town is well-connected and ideal for those looking for a blend of town and rural life.
Characteristics of the Galashiels
* Culture: Arts and music scene, history
* Transportation: Excellent transport links to Edinburgh and beyond
* Services: Supermarkets, schools, healthcare facilities, and restaurants
* Environment: Bustling town life with a community atmosphere
Housing Options in the Galashiels
New developments, Townhouses, Bungalows
Average Home Prices in the Galashiels
* Buying: £200,000 – £350,000
* Renting: £800 – £1,200/month
St. Boswells

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A picturesque village near Smailholm, St. Boswells is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities. It’s an attractive area for families seeking quiet but still close to urban conveniences.
Characteristics of the St. Boswells
* Culture: Outdoor events and village fairs
* Transportation: Good road network, occasional bus services
* Services: School, shop, and restaurants
* Environment: Tranquil and community-oriented
Housing Options in the St. Boswells
Detached homes, Character properties
Average Home Prices in the St. Boswells
* Buying: £220,000 – £350,000
* Renting: £850 – £1,300/month
Newtown St. Boswells

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This neighborhood provides a good mix of amenities and gorgeous surroundings, making it attractive for those who enjoy the outdoors. It's a family-friendly community with excellent schools nearby.
Characteristics of the Newtown St. Boswells
* Culture: Focus on community and family activities
* Transportation: Well-connected by road, bus services available
* Services: Primary school, parks, shops
* Environment: Friendly and welcoming
Housing Options in the Newtown St. Boswells
New builds, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Newtown St. Boswells
* Buying: £210,000 – £320,000
* Renting: £800 – £1,100/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Smailholm:
The best residential areas in Smailholm include Smailholm Village Centre, Smailholm Farm Area, Bowden, Galashiels, St. Boswells, and Newtown St. Boswells.
Smailholm Farm Area is renowned for its tranquility and natural surroundings, making it ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
Galashiels offers the most amenities, including shopping, healthcare, and recreational facilities.
Housing options range from traditional cottages and bungalows to modern townhouses and farmhouses in the surrounding areas.
Average property prices range from around £150,000 for smaller homes in the village to £400,000 for larger farmhouses in more rural areas.
Transport links mainly rely on road connections, with limited public transport services available. A car is highly recommended for ease of travel.
Yes, there are local primary schools in Smailholm and nearby towns like St. Boswells. Secondary education is available in Galashiels.
Bowden and St. Boswells are highly recommended for families due to their community-focused atmosphere and local amenities, including schools.
Yes, the surrounding countryside offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and nature exploration.
Yes, Smailholm offers a peaceful environment, friendly community, and access to healthcare services, making it suitable for retirees.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Smailholm:
Smailholm, Roxburgh, Ettrick, and Lauderdale present a wonderful array of residential areas that cater to various lifestyles and preferences. Whether you prefer the historic charm of Smailholm Village Centre, the quiet rural setting of the Farm Area, or the vibrancy of Galashiels, this region offers a unique living experience. It's ideal for families, retirees, and professionals alike. Careful consideration of what each area offers will help you find the perfect home in this picturesque Scottish landscape.
About the Author

Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in property. I combine technology and analysis to help you discover the best places to live.