Scottish Borders Tourist Guide
Hawick, Jedburgh and Duns are Ideal Tourist Destinations
Sep 18, 2008
The Scottish Borders is an area of great natural beauty and historical significance which is frequently overlooked by tourists. Its unspoilt landscape and attractive towns make it an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday.
Hawick - Historic Border Town Famous for Textiles
Hawick is the largest of the towns in the Scottish Borders. The first account of the town can be traced back to the seventh century, and since then it has had a colourful history. Its location meant that Hawick was frequently attacked between the 14th and 16th centuries by invading English armies. A statue on the High Street depicting a man on horseback commemorates a remarkable event which occurred in 1514, when the young men of the town managed to repel an attack from English troops.
The town is best known for its textile industry, having connections with famous brands such as Pringle and Lyle and Scott. For tourists there is a museum in Drumlanrig Tower, where it is possible to walk around the top of the tower outside. One room of the museum is dedicated to one of Hawick’s favourite sons, the late motorcycle racer Steve Hislop. Another famous racer, Jimmie Guthrie, is remembered in an exhibition at the free museum in the town’s Wilton Park.
Jedburgh - Ideal for a Day Trip
Throughout Jedburgh’s history there have been over 80 different spellings recorded of the town’s name. Visitors can enjoy spending time at the town’s historic buildings. They include a 12th century abbey and Jedburgh Castle Jail, both of which are open to the public. A local delicacy is jethnut snails, which are boiled sweets apparently introduced to the area during Napoleonic times. Among Jedburgh’s famous visitors over the years have been Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. The house where Mary Queen of Scots stayed is also open to the public.
Duns - Hometown of Jim Clark
Duns is a delightful old market town, surrounded by acres of farmland, which remains the main industry in the area. In the centre of Duns is the attractive Market Square, around which are various shops, pubs and cafes. The square is also home to the 18th century Mercat Cross.
Many visitors to the town go to visit the Jim Clark Room, which contains trophies and other memorabilia belonging to the great Scottish racing driver. Although born in Fife, he moved with his family to the Borders at four years of age. Clark is buried a short distance away in the quiet village of Chirnside.
For a selection of other places worth visiting in the Scottish Borders, please click here.
 |
 |
