World outside our windows now on show in bid to boost tourism in Borders after lockdown ends

There’s a world outside your window, and it’s a world of dread and fear, sang Duran Duran’s Simon Le Bon on the 1984 Band Aid single Do They Know It’s Christmas? and that sums up how many people regard what lies beyond their front doors these days.
A view out of a window at Traquair House at Innerleithen.A view out of a window at Traquair House at Innerleithen.
A view out of a window at Traquair House at Innerleithen.

Judging by the garb resembling hazmat suits being worn by some supermarket shoppers in the Borders these days, dread and fear of coronavirus is ever present.

Health worries aren’t all the outside world has to offer, however.

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The region’s natural beauty remains intact and its many historic buildings of note are as much of a joy to behold as ever.

At the moment, they might only be appreciated by those out for the increased amount of daily exercise now allowed under Scotland’s lockdown rules, but the tourists the Borders’ economy depends on look likely to be allowed back within the next few months.

In readiness for their eventual return, possibly in bigger numbers than ever if, as is being suggested, holidaymakers going abroad face lengthy quarantine periods, they’re currently being reminded of what they’re missing out on by a VisitScotland social media campaign.

Hundreds of views from attractions and homes across Scotland, including several in the Borders, have been shared online as part of the tourism organisation’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram campaign #AWindowOnScotland.

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Outlooks on show include ones in the Ettrick Valley, Melrose, Duns, Gordon, Lauder and Innerleithen.

The campaign’s hashtag has already been shared thousands of times by Borderers and other Scots answering VisitScotland’s plea for pictures taken from their properties while staying at home in compliance with lockdown rules.

VisitScotland regional leadership director Paula Ward said: “We’re thrilled at the reaction to #AWindowOnScotland from residents across the Borders and heartened that businesses are engaging with the campaign and using the opportunity to share their windows on Scotland with the world during this challenging time.

“The staycation market will be a key driver in the country’s economic recovery and the many wonderful views people have been sharing while they stay at home will surely be an incentive for many to travel when the time comes.

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“The campaign is far from over, and we’d encourage residents and businesses to continue posting their views, however they may look, as it is all Scotland, to help lift the spirits of those at home and abroad.”

The campaign is being backed by the Big Houses of the Scottish Borders group, and photographs taken at Thirlestane Castle in Lauder, Mellerstain House near Gordon and Traquair House at Innerleithen are among those featured.

Group chairman Gillian Steele said: “VisitScotland’s #AWindowOnScotland campaign provides us with a great visual opportunity to continue to promote our houses, their gardens and their wildlife from the same perspective as everyone at home.

“I don’t think people will necessarily forget we are here, but with us all looking out of our windows dreaming of that day when we can travel again and indulge our passion for Scottish heritage, this campaign strikes a chord.

“I’m encouraging all the big houses to take part, and I hope between the 11 of us we will give visitors a reminder of how beautiful our houses and gardens look this month.”