St Ronan's Wells Visitor Centre

St Ronan’s Wells Visitor Centre in Innerleithen is a charming tribute to the town’s spa heritage and its literary connections. The site centres on the historic mineral spring once believed to have healing properties; in the 19th century, visitors flocked here to “take the waters” during Innerleithen’s brief but lively spa era. The pavilion‑style building, perched on the hillside, still feels like a retreat designed for fresh air and quiet restoration. Inside, one of the most interesting features is the exhibition on Sir Walter Scott’s novel St Ronan’s Well, which transformed the town’s reputation and inspired its Victorian boom. Displays explore how fiction shaped real tourism, with illustrations, early editions and objects linked to the spa culture that followed. You can also see the original well room, where the mineral water was once served to visitors. Interpretive panels explain the geology behind the spring and the rituals associated with “taking the cure.” The centre includes a small gallery on Innerleithen’s traditions, including the vibrant Cleikum Ceremonies, which celebrate local folklore and community identity.