Our first foundation stone was laid in 1878. Three years and £70,000 later, Peebles Hotel Hydropathic opened its doors to excited guests and patients, keen to sample the very latest in water cures.

Patients were expected to take treatments prescribed by the resident doctor; we just can’t imagine our spa guests warming to the idea. The water came from St Ronan’s well, which is around six miles east of the hotel. Lightly salty, it flowed from the spring at a bracing 6°C. Some of the treatment options included peat and sulphur baths – not to mention high pressure jets of hot water and mustard poultices.

But water wasn’t the only treatment on offer. The hotel also generated its own electricity, and was able to offer a frankly terrifying range of electro-therapy, from infra-red rays to light baths.

As a patient, you’d also attend short lectures from the medical staff, decrying a return to a life of idle gluttony after a restorative stay at the hotel.

However, there was plenty more to occupy the day, especially if you had ailments in need of a cure. Much like today, tennis, golf, fishing and walking were popular pursuits. The swimming pool hosted lessons, and in the evenings,

Peebles Hydro offers a beautiful setting in gardens, in the border town of Peebles. This charming, historic hotel features an indoor swimming pool, a spa, a gym and restaurant.

Peebles Hydro was originally a centre for hydropathic treatments, as the water in the surrounding area is known for its healthy properties. The building dates from the late 19th century and is surrounded by forest.

Each room at Peebles Hydro features classic décor finished in lightly coloured tones. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, a TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, heating and a bathroom with free toiletries.

You can enjoy lovely views when enjoying breakfast or dinner in the restaurant. There is also a cocktail bar. Or book a treatment at PURE Spa.

The Scottish Borders are ideal for cycling, walking, fishing and golfing. The River Tweed is a short walk from the hotel.

Edinburgh is a 45-minute drive from the hotel. The Go Ape Adventure Park is just 10 minutes’ drive away, in Glentress Forest.