17th century classic coaching inn reopens in the Borders

The Cross Keys Inn Ettrickbridge has bucked the trend of rural pubs closing their doors for good after being rescued by Rory and Vicki Steel.

Rory, the son of former Liberal Democrat leader, Lord David Steel, spent his first 18 years living opposite the village pub, and knew how important it was to the community.

Set in the idyllic Ettrick Valley, The Cross Keys Inn is the only pub in the village and had been lying empty for months prior to Rory and Vicki Steel spending more than £400,000 to purchase and upgrade it.

The pub offers the perfect getaway for those looking to explore the great outdoors, while knowing they’ll return to comfortable, cosy accommodation and a warm welcome from staff and village regulars alike. The pub with rooms features:

Seven well-appointed and affordable bedrooms ranging in size from a double to large family room. Prices start at £100 per room per night, including full Scottish breakfast.

Vibrant bar with local beers and ales, extensive whisky and gin collections, range of family games from dominoes to darts and two real, open fires for warming up after a day exploring

The pub also prides itself on being a hub for the community, with locals once again flocking to take part in quiz nights, domino drives, live music sessions and so much more.

Rory Steel said: “The Cross Keys Inn was always the centre of village life when I grew up opposite the pub, and it was a wonderful childhood. I remember the place being full of great characters from the area and further afield. It’s that great atmosphere we are working hard with the local community to bring back.”

Vicki Steel, said “We’ve been running Aikwood Tower, which is less than two miles from the pub for more than a decade and the reaction from people who come to explore the South of Scotland is always the same – they can’t believe there aren’t more tourists here.

“The rolling hills, quiet roads, family activities and fantastic quality food and drink on offer is as good as you’ll find in any rural setting in Scotland, but often at a much lower price than, say, the Highlands. We hope that visitors to the Cross Keys Inn will agree.”

The Cross Keys Inn was purchased by Rory and Vicki after being closed for six months, with no re-opening in sight.

A grant from South of Scotland Enterprise allowed for refurbishments and essential upgrading of key facilities.

Since re-opening, five full-time equivalent jobs have been created, giving much needed employment, especially to young people, with further employment being created for the busy summer months.