Scottish Borders Homecoming Scotland 2009 Programme
Extract from Exiles Return
"Ye're welcome, sakes ye're welcome
Where ye're gled nae doubt to be;
The wanderlust has held ye lang
Across the wide saut sea;
The freemit friends ye neebor there
Are neebor-like and grand,
But ye're back now wi' your ain folk,
And we're gleg to grip your hand"
Written by William Landles
By kind permission of Ian Landles, Hawick
The Scottish Borders: a destination for all seasons
Covering about eighteen hundred square miles, the Scottish Borders stretches from the rolling hills and moorland in the west, through gentler valleys to the high agricultural plains of the east, and on to the rocky Berwickshire coastline with its secluded coves and picturesque fishing villages.
In the bright spring months, fresh new growth fills the valleys and forests of the Scottish Borders. Enjoy time to spare with the lure of lighter longer summer days or relax in more mellow shades of autumn when mauves and purples tint the moors. Crunch through the crisp frosts of winter, when early morning mist floats over the lowlands, and the snow capped hills sparkle in the distance.
Land and sea, hills and moorland all sit happily side by side. Rivers and paths wind their way through untouched natural beauty whilst the more gentle pace of life subtly relaxes and revives you. Seasonal changes await to delight, every day at every turn. The Scottish Borders is truly a destination for all seasons!
Visit for Free
Dryburgh Abbey
Location: St Boswells, Melrose
Offer: Visit for free
When: Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th November
Description: Dryburgh sits by the Tweed River. Its remarkably complete medieval ruins makes it easy to appreciate the attractions of monastic life. Fine examples of ecclesiastic architecture and masonry remain.
Website: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Jedburgh Abbey
Location: Abbey Bridge End, Jedburgh
Offer: Visit for free
When: Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th November
Description: Jedburgh Abbey, founded in 1138, was a frequent target for invading border armies. Today, there is a cloister and herb garden to explore, and a visitor centre containing 8th century carvings and artefacts excavated from the abbey grounds.
Website: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Melrose Abbey
Location: Abbey Street, Melrose
Offer: Visit for free
When: Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th November
Description: Melrose Abbey is a magnificent ruin on a grand scale with lavishly decorated masonry. The Abbey is thought to be the burial place of Robert the Bruce’s heart, marked with a commemorative carved stone plaque within the grounds.
Website: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Smailholm Tower
Location: Smailholm, Kelso
Offer: Visit for free
When: Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th November
Description: Home to the Pringles and Scotts, Smailholm is a prominent landmark that proved inspirational to Sir Walter Scott who is buried at nearby Dryburgh
Download the 48 Hours in Jedburgh and Kelso leaflet (PDF format).
Homecoming in the Scottish Borders
For an overview of our Homecoming programme in the Scottish Borders, you can click here to view the events guide.
To download the flyer for Edinburgh Military Tattoo's exclusive 'Taste of the Tattoo' event in the Scottish Borders.
Find out more about Selkirk Pipe Band, who gave an impressive sell out Homecoming concert in September
http://selkirkpipeband.bravehost.com/
You may also be interested in finding out about the Peebles Food Festival (click to download the flyer).
Return to the Ridings
A manifestation of centuries old tradition, civic pride and stunning spectacle unique to the Scottish Borders;
In the Footsteps of the Reivers
A fascinating look at the rich and bloody history of the Border Reivers across the distinctive landscape that was their home and;
Clan Scott Gathering
An exciting four day programme full of history, music, colour, drama – and fun whether you're a Scott or not!
Partner and Local Events in the Scottish Borders
There will be a wide range of local Homecomming events happening throughout the Borders in 2009
Useful links:
http://www.visitscottishborders.com/
http://www.ourscottishborders.com/
www.borderevents.com
Rideborders - information on everything equestrian in the Scottish Borders
www.castlehillpeebles.com Adcock Holiday Cottages, situated in the beautiful and rural Manor Valley near Peebles. Exclusive 10% discount for Homecoming guests - Quote 1931/CHQ001. 01244 356 666
Thanking Radio Borders for their support
