Common Riding Day
Spectators line the moorland fields and riversides to see the mounted Cornet and riders lead chases (gallops) on horseback, and bring the flag safely back to town, followed by dances and celebration.
Hawick Common Riding
Hawick, United Kingdom
Jun 4 - 6, 2026Expected
Each June, the Borders town of Hawick reenacts a proud moment of 1514, when local youths seized an English flag. Mounted riders ride the town's ancient boundaries in the Common Riding, in a stirring celebration of community, history, and the protection of the town's lands.
Key moments
Colour Bussing Ceremony
Onlookers witness a formal handover of the town flag to the Cornet, with traditional music and crowds gathering in the street, a highlight of the historic pageantry.
Where it happens
Hawick Town Centre
Hawick, United Kingdom
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Dress for the setting
Wear warm attire; traditional collars or ribbons often worn
Read the local rhythm
Watch the procession from designated areas; do not startle horses.
Keep the visit respectful
Stand respectfully during the flag ceremonies; abide by safety ropes during horse chases.
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: high.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Reviewed mediaREGIONAL HISTORY & CIVIC HERITAGE
Hawick Common Riding
Hawick, United Kingdom
Each June, the Borders town of Hawick reenacts a proud moment of 1514, when local youths seized an English flag. Mounted riders ride the town's ancient boundaries in the Common Riding, in a stirring celebration of community, history, and the protection of the town's lands.
Under the radarStill under the radar
Jun 4 - 6, 2026Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
Rooted in border clan history, the Common Riding is about protecting the town’s land rights and commemorating past bravery. The Cornet (chief rider) carries the town flag honorably and ceremonies reinforce communal links to the landscape. It is one of the oldest and largest Common Ride events in the Borders, involving nearly the entire Hawick community.
Key moments to know
Common Riding Day
Spectators line the moorland fields and riversides to see the mounted Cornet and riders lead chases (gallops) on horseback, and bring the flag safely back to town, followed by dances and celebration.
Colour Bussing Ceremony
Onlookers witness a formal handover of the town flag to the Cornet, with traditional music and crowds gathering in the street, a highlight of the historic pageantry.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Dress for the setting
Wear warm attire; traditional collars or ribbons often worn
Read the local rhythm
Watch the procession from designated areas; do not startle horses.
Keep the visit respectful
Stand respectfully during the flag ceremonies; abide by safety ropes during horse chases.
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Jun 4 - 6, 2026
Estimated
City / Area
Hawick
Scotland (Scottish Borders)
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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