Saturday November 14th 2026
Wilson’s Farm & Kitchen At Cowbog in Morebattle
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A popular Scottish Borders hospitality venue converted from a former stable almost a decade ago has formalised its planning status.
Back in 2017 JRB Wilson & Sons converted the early 1900s stable into Wilson’s Farm & Kitchen at Cowbog in Morebattle.
The all-year-round-venue is available for hire for private functions including birthday celebrations, family gatherings and smaller weddings.
But the outlet was established without a formal ‘change of use’ application to Scottish Borders Council at the time.
Now a retrospective application has been approved by SBC.
In his report rubber-stamping the bid, Euan Calvert, SBC assistant planning officer, states: “No business plan has been submitted but the proposal can be supported given the evidence of successful use over a prolonged period.
“There have been no third party representations received and no residential amenity implications are identified with the proposed use in this location.
“No noise or time restrictions are identified as necessary for a licensed premises in this location.
“The licensing proposals include use of the adjacent steel agricultural shed for 30 persons including a lounge bar, raised external deck and outdoor hospitality area.”
A report with the application stated: “The property hadn’t been used as a stable for over 40 years and had been re-purposed as a hospitality venue further to receipt of grant funding approximately nine years ago in order to provide economic growth and a diversified income for the family farm.
“The venue provides food experiences for couples, families and small groups on a pre-booked basis throughout the year and has been running successfully since it opened in 2017.
“The Wilson family have farmed at Cowbog since 1938 and the hospitality venue is an ideal way for them to showcase their home-grown produce, in which they take great pride.
“Through sensitive management, the farm strives to protect and enhance its biodiversity while still being economic, and the stables venue supports that vision.
“The stables building has not been re-modelled and retains its attractive outward appearance and sense of place in the farm environment.
“Parking for the venue is provided on a gravel area adjacent to the tarmac access road.
“Taking the above into consideration, it is hoped that the Planning Authority will support this application which has revived and re-purposed this existing unused building.”
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