The Riding of the Bounds

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Berwick-upon-Tweed’s historic Riding of the Bounds, a centuries-old tradition celebrating the town’s unique heritage and marking the ancient boundaries between England and Scotland.

The Bounds refers to the land between the present-day border and the River Tweed. The tradition dates back to 1609, when the first official Riding of the Bounds took place to check the integrity of these historic land divisions. Over the years, the event has evolved, but many original customs remain, decorating horses with ribbons, a race at Canty’s Bridge, and a celebratory gathering afterwards.

While the ride traditionally took place on 1st May, it now happens on the Saturday of the May Day Bank Holiday weekend to allow more riders, spectators, and volunteers to take part.

The Riding of the Bounds remains a cherished part of Berwick’s identity. Whether you’re a rider or a spectator, come and be part of this fantastic celebration on 2nd May 2026!

“Berwick Riders Association invite you all to Berwick upon Tweeds annual Riding of the Bounds on Saturday 2nd May 2026.

2026 sees the 417th Riding of the Bounds, a celebration of the traditional ride to check the security of the boundaries of the town, originating to protect the English town from the Scottish Raiders, with a cavalcade of horsemen.

Come and ride alongside our Chief Marshal and her principals, or watch this magnificent tradition at various points throughout the ride, it’s a sight you won’t forget!

This event is FREE to riders and spectators.

Route and timings will be added at a later date.”

Please note that all timings are approximate and depend on weather conditions or unexpected delays.

9:30am – Judging of Best Turned Out classes
9:45am – Riders to be mounted
10:00am – Call to Order. Riders assemble behind the Chief Marshal and proceed to Barracks Square
10:30am – Cavalcade leaves the Berwick Barracks and proceeds via Walkergate to the Berwick Town Hall
10:40am – Chief Marshal formally requests permission from the Mayor to ride the Bounds
10:45am – Cavalcade departs the Town Hall
11:15am – Riders arrive at Jingling Bridge and continue via Seaview, Newfields and old road
11:25am – A1 Roundabout crossing, onto Conundrum Farm Road
11:45am – Fields towards the Border Wall
12:05pm – Arrive at Woodhills
12:25pm – Duns Road crossing
12:45pm – Bridleway
1:00pm – Top of New Mills
1:15pm – River crossing at New Mills (weather dependent; alternative via Canty’s Bridge if needed)
1:30pm – Riders arrive at Gainslaw Hill Farm (optional gallop for those continuing – gallop visible from Canty’s Bridge)
1:45pm – Gallopers arrive at Gainslaw
2:30pm – Rest break / Trotting Races (weather permitting)
3:05pm – Ride resumes towards Baldersbury
3:20pm – Letham Shank & flyover crossing (no viewing – private land)
3:50pm – Chief Marshal receives the flag at Castle Terrace
4:00pm – Return to Guildhall. Chief Marshal returns the flag to the Mayor
Riders then return to Wallace Green and Parade car parks