Hawick

Hawick is the Borders’ largest town and similar with many other border towns, its prosperity has been based on sheep and wool. It produces fine quality knitwear that is exported all over the world.

Common Riding takes place throughout the border area, and dates from the turbulent times when communities had to ride en masse to assert their boundaries. The tradition is widely upheld throughout the area and at the annual Hawick re-enactment a replica of the flag of English marauders, defeated by the Teries at Hornshole in 1514, is carried.

Drumlanrig’s Tower Museum in the town centre has some interesting exhibits on the history of the area with particular reference to the Border Rivers. Other attractions include Moat Park, where the remains of a 12th century motte & bailey castle are to be found and Hermitage Castle a few miles south of Hawick, which once belonged to Mary Queen of Scots’ lover, James Bothwell.