A celebration of tradition and history
The Common Ridings in the Scottish Borders celebrate the riding of the boundaries which has taken place for hundreds of years. From early June to late July, 11 towns in the Scottish Borders use horses for the traditional ‘ride out’ and host lively festivals celebrating the...
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
For more information on the ridings and festivals, see the Return to the Ridings website