This is one event worth seeing if ever visiting the Scottish Borders and that is Hawick Common Riding. This ancient event of riding the town boundaries and also the history of the battle of Flooden in 1514 where the Scots were defeated by the English. How ever, as the English advanced they set up camp about two or three miles outside town. During the night the youths of the town basically slaughtered the English while they were asleep and stole their flag. That flag is paraded every year and has become a symbol of Hawick and of the Hwick Common Riding.
This is a great time of year to visit the town, with a great party atmosphere and is one great big party.
If you happen to be around from late May to catch some of the ride out or in Scotland about the first week in June then this would be a great place to visit.
Hawick sits on the A7 road between Edinburgh and Carlisle and is about a one hour drive from both cities. Enjoy your stay in Scotland.