The Rhymer's Stone

The Rhymer’s Stone is located on the Eildon Hills near Melrose. It tells the story of Thomas the Rhymer, a famous poet from the late 1200s. Legend tells of Thomas having fallen asleep near this spot, beneath a tree.

According to the story when he awoke, Thomas was confronted by the Queen of the Fairies on a shining grey horse. He then went on an adventure to Fairyland where he stayed for what seemed to be three days, but was in fact seven years.

Upon leaving this enchanted land, Thomas gained the gift of speaking the truth and told of many prophecies related to Scottish history. It’s said he famously prophesized the death of King Alexander III.

This large stone was erected by the Melrose Literary Society in 1929 and is now a beautiful part of the Scottish countryside. Next to the stone is the Rhymer’s Stone Viewpoint, which offers amazing views of the surrounding hills and towns.