This plush Borders town hotel started life in 1808 as a coaching inn. The name Tontine derives from the legal setup, where a group of investors gambled on out-living each other with the last man alive inheriting the entire asset. The hotel bar is fairly small but has an open fire and is pleasantly decorated with local prints of historical interest. The lounge is larger with a number of comfy sofas. Much of the high quality food served in the restaurant is sourced from within fifty miles. The hotel attracts visitors who enjoy the local angling, golf, mountain biking, shooting and walking. Outside the hotel is the late Victorian John Veitch memorial drinking fountain and the Peebles 'gold postbox', celebrating local Olympian show jumper Scott Brash. WARNING: JUN23 - Real ale availability a bit intermittent.