Our Towns
Before it was finally anchored on the English side of the border with Scotland, Berwick-upon-Tweed changed hands no less than 13 times.
Some 527 years later, the good folk of Berwick still lean to the north - by a margin of 60-40% - if the findings of a recent poll is to be believed.
It's a dual identity that we thought deserved an honorary inclusion on Discover the Borders and the reason why Berwick lines up alongside the towns of the Scottish Borders.
From Eyemouth, guarding Scotland's spectacular south east coastlines, across rolling hills and valleys to the textile towns of Hawick, Selkirk, Galashiels and Peebles, the Borders has a keen sense of regional identity and a strong community spirit.
Its historic abbey towns of Jedburgh, Melrose and Kelso bear witness to the cruelty and senseless destruction brought about by war and political reprisals down the centuries.
Their abbeys, together with that of Dryburgh, are a reminder of the important role the Borders played in the spread of Christianity.
This is a land that was populated by saints as well as sinners.
The Borders and its towns have all played their part in shaping Scotland's history and some, such as Coldstream, have become household names in doing so. The Coldstream Guards lays claim to being the most famous regiment in the world and the oldest regiment in continuous existence in the British Army.
This is a region, too, with a legendary sporting tradition. Melrose is internationally famous as the home of sevens rugby and Duns and Hawick are famous for producing world champions on four wheels and two.
Duns was the home of Jim Clark, a local farmer who went on to become a world champion in Forumla 1 racing. And Hawick produced not one but two motorcycling champions Jimmy Guthrie and Steve Hislop. All three are commemorated in exhibitions at their home town museums.
The Borders is justifiably proud of its history, its people and its achievements. When you visit this green and pleasant land you will discover a very special part of the world and wherever you go there's a warm welcome guaranteed.
