Grandstand, Kelso Racecourse

The Grandstand at Kelso Racecourse, dated 1822, is an exceptional and rare two-storey, rectangular-plan Classical grandstand designed based on a plan by John Carr from 1778. It is constructed of buff sandstone ashlar with moulded dressings and cornicing, featuring shouldered hoodmoulds over its openings.

On the south elevation, there is a seven-bay rusticated arcade at the ground level, with a five-bay section above that includes Tuscan pilasters between round-arched openings. This section steps back to create a viewing terrace, which is adorned with ornamental cast-iron railings featuring a rose motif and decorative awning posts. The roof has a balustraded parapet with cast-iron rails leading to an observation platform. Additionally, there are shouldered stacks with tall square-plan chimneys arranged in groups of three.

The east elevation features a round-arched doorway framed by a stone porch, while the west elevation boasts a substantial Doric-columned portico leading to a three-stage stair tower, with a date plaque above inscribed 'Erected by James Duke of Roxburgh 1822'.

The first floor includes multi-pane glazing on two-leaf timber doors and windows, with decorative cast iron fan-lights above the round-arch openings. The timber sash and case windows throughout predominantly have 12-pane glazing, and there are cast iron rainwater goods.

Inside, the ground floor contains changing rooms, a weighing-in room, and offices, many of which feature timber surround fireplaces. A wide stone stair rises to the first floor from the entrance on the east side. The Duke and Duchess's room on the east has a carved frieze and a white marble chimneypiece. The larger public room on the west is decorated with an ornate double plaster cornice and a timber chimneypiece with columned jambs, along with a large cast-iron grate. A hanging stone stair with a late 20th century brick newel is located in the northwest corner tower.