Rhymer's Stone

Magical things have happened on this quiet hillside near Melrose.

The poet Thomas the Rhymer (c1210-1290) met the Queen of the Fairies as he wandered on the hills beyond Melrose. Immediately captivated, Thomas allowed himself to be spirited away with her to the Fairy kingdom in the hills where he remained for seven years. On his return to earth, Thomas discovered mystical powers – including the gift of prophesy – and among his predictions was the union of England with Scotland.

A monument to Thomas the Rhymer stands today at the spot where he became bewitched by the Fairy Queen. You can also visit the Rhymer’s Stone, which is set into the east wall of Earlstone Parish Church. Lovers of myth and mystery should take a trip to the ancient border town of Melrose and the imposing ruins of Melrose Abbey – long thought to have concealed the heart of Robert the Bruce.

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