Cockburnspath Travel Guide - Scotland

Cockburnspath is a small village located in the Scottish Borders between Berwick–upon–Tweed and Edinburgh and is close to the North Sea. If you take the A6112 from Preston and then the A1 at Granthouse, you will arrive at the village. The village is the eastern end of the Southern Upland Way, which is a walkway from the west coast of Scotland to the east coast. Visitors to this area have a fantastic opportunity to visit prehistoric ruins with evidence that this area has been inhabited since the days of the Bronze Age. Originally, Cockburnspath was called Kolbrand's Path, which was the invasion route from England to Scotland.

Cockburnspath was part of the dowry that James IV gave to Margaret Tudor when they got married in 1503. This marriage was called the Marriage of the Thistle and the Rose to designate the marriage of England and Scotland. The market cross located in the centre of the village dates back to the 16^th century also has the symbols of the thistle and the rose. The marriage also cemented the Treaty of Perpetual Peace, but this only lasted until James IV was killed in the Battle of Flodden.

You will have the ideal base for walking and surfing when you choose to visit Cockburnspath. There is beautiful sandy beaches within walking distance and there are three scenic golf courses within a short drive from the village. This area was once the favourite haunt of many Scottish artists in the 19^th century and you may just discover a hidden talent when you drink in the stunning scenery of the surrounding countryside.

Visit such places as the Fast Castle, which was the setting for "The Bride of Lammermuir" written by Sir Walter Scott. You can also visit Lammermuir, which is located just west of Cockburnspath. The parish church in the village is very unusual with its round tower and you can visit the medieval Collegiate Church at nearby Dunglass. This facility is open to the public and is managed by the Historic Trust of Scotland.

Cockburnspath has been home to many vivid characters throughout the centuries and you can still hear the tales of their exploits when you talk to some of the older people in the village. Drop into a pub and talk to the locals over a drink or tap your toes to the traditional Scottish music. Enjoy quaint bed and breakfasts, caravan parks, self–catering cottages and delightful inns as your choices in accommodations. Everything will delight you and please you to no end and will certainly draw you back time after time.