Riding of

The Bounds

Who
we are

We are the Berwick Riders Association, a passionate community of riders, volunteers, and supporters dedicated to preserving one of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s oldest and most cherished traditions. From serving on our committee and riding alongside our Principals, to organising school events, fundraising, and looking after safety on the day, we do it all with pride, pride in our town and a shared love for heritage. Explore below to meet the Principals, learn more about our history, and discover what goes into the running of our special day..

berwick upon tweed riders association logo on a horse with a close up of riders boots on a horse on bounds day
Principals riding horses at Canty's Brig, one woman leading with a large bounds flag, all wearing formal riding attire with sashes and helmets.

Over 400 years of history, horses and community spirit

Each spring, Berwick-upon-Tweed comes alive with colour, pageantry and pride as horses and riders take to the streets for the Riding of the Bounds – a centuries-old tradition that celebrates the town’s border, its people, and its past.

Rooted in a Royal Charter dating back to 1609, this is more than just a ride – it’s a living link to Berwick’s heritage. Today, it’s kept alive by passionate volunteers, Principal Riders, and the wider community.

Whether you're a rider, a history lover, or just someone who loves a good spectacle – there's a place for you in the Riding of the Bounds.

Illustration of a ribbon award with red and blue colors, featuring a rosette at the top and long tails hanging down.

Approximate Timings

on Bounds Day

A detailed watercolor drawing of a horse's head wearing a bridle, facing forward, on a black background.

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 Barracks and proceeds via Walkergate to the Guildhall

  • 10:40am – Chief Marshal formally requests permission from the Mayor to ride the Bounds

  • 10:45am – Cavalcade departs the Guildhall

  • 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

A hand-drawn illustration of a trophy cup with a wooden base and two handles.

Contact us

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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