Common Ridings on the Scottish Borders

Common Ridings can be traced back to the turbulent times of the 13th and 14th centuries during the long wars with England. In those lawless times it was customary to plunder and thieve between bordering towns. In order to protect their common lands, townspeople would ride their boundaries to prevent encroachment by neighbouring landlords.

The ridings have long ceased to be necessary, but locals continue the custom to this day in commemoration of local legend, history and tradition. Visit any of the Common Ridings events this summer to enjoy the ride out, local song and dance, pageantry and a rare glimpse into centuries-old Scottish traditions.

Dates for Common Ridings and Festivals 2010

• 8-13 June - Hawick Common Riding
• 4-12 June - West Linton Whipman
• 14-19 June - Selkirk Common Riding
• 20-26 June - Peebles Beltane
• 21-26th June - Melrose Festival
• 25 June-3rd July - Galashiels Braw Lads Gathering
• 3-9th July - Jethart Callants Festival
• 4-10th July - Duns Summer Festival
• 18-24 July - Kelso Civic Week
• 25-31 July - Lauder Common Riding
• 1-7 August - Coldstream Civic Week
• 13-20th June - Yetholm Festival
• 10-17th July - Eyemouth Herring Queen
• 30th July - Langholm Common Riding
• (To be Confirmed) - Earlston Civic Week

For more information on the ridings and festivals, see the Return to the Ridings website