The history of The Borders

The Borders region has seen more than its share of bloodshed over the centuries. Indeed, its proximity to the neighbours down south means there’s arguably nowhere in Scotland that has witnessed more battles and upheavals. But its tale begins way back in prehistoric times, with roundhouses and stone circles testament to a population that dates to at least the Iron Age. Despite this, tensions and divisions rumbled on, although by the 19th century a form of peace and prosperity had arrived, thanks to the region’s fast-growing textile industry. Many mills from the period still stand today.

FolkloreThe Farmer’s Wife of DeloraineRoxburgh Castle & The Douglas CowsFolkloreBedrule’s Fairy BreadFolkloreThe Worm of LintonFolkloreMichael Scott & The White SnakeFolkloreThe Ballad of Tam LinFolkloreThe Wealthy Ghost of Littledean TowerThe Grey Mare’s Tail CovenantersThe Siege Of Kelso AbbeyFolkloreThomas the Rhymer & The Eildon TreeFolkloreBorder balladsHistorySir Walter Scott’s ScotlandHistoryA Month Close to Home: Cupar Histories and a Roxburgh RuinHistory20 Places to Visit in the Scottish BordersHistoryA Pilgrimage to the Borders AbbeysHistoryMelrose Abbey and Robert the Bruce's HeartHistoryTouring the southern Coast of ScotlandHistoryHills, Forests and Valleys of Southern ScotlandHistoryThe Redcap of Hermitage CastleHistoryDiscovering the Nooks and Crannies of the Borders