Jedburgh

Ever an important gateway to Scotland, Jedburgh lies 10 miles north of the border with England, on the Jed Water, 12 miles from Hawick, to which it has a similar appearance in its lovely sandstone buildings and colourful renovated buildings.


The town’s origins are ancient; it was thought to have been a post-Roman capital of the Geddewrd. King David I founded the abbey in 1138, whose substantial ruins stand magnificently above the Jed Water, dominating the town. Jedburgh has quite a turbulent history, yet one of great significance as a powerful religious centre in the Scottish Borders. David I also built the castle which was an occasional royal residence, but it was captured too many times by the English in cross border conflict, and was demolished by the Scots in 1409. A large jail was built on the site in 1823, and this is now a museum. Other buildings to see include Mary Queen of Scots House, where she stayed in October 1566, and the houses on the Castlegate, one of which was occupied by Bonny Prince Charlie on his way to England in 1745.


Similar to other Borders towns, Jedburgh has its share of ancient traditions. The ball game known as 'Jethart Hand-ba' supposedly derives from the men of medieval Jedburgh playing with the heads of English soldiers. It is played today at Candlemas and Shrove Tuesday by two opposing teams. The Jethart Callant Festival occurs in early July when the Callant (a young man chosen to represent the town) leads his mounted supporters in two weeks of ceremonial rideouts to places linked with the town's history. Festival Day is followed by the Jedburgh Border Games. Ever since 1854, the Jedforest Instrumental band has supported many religious, social, and civic events throughout the year.


Visitors to the town can enjoy free parking. If you are not able to catch the festivals, there are plenty of other activities available. You may follow the town trail or countryside walk, browse in the tourist shops and take advantage of the local services aimed at passing trade.