- Hawick is home to the annual Common Riding, one of the oldest equestrian festivals in Scotland, which commemorates historical land boundary inspections.
- The town's textile heritage dates back to the 18th century, earning it a global reputation for cashmere and knitwear production.
- Hawick once served as a primary site for the internment of thousands of prisoners of war during the First World War at Stobs Camp.
- The town was historically significant as a defensive stronghold, evidenced by the presence of the Hawick Mote, an ancient earthwork fort.
- Hawick rugby team is one of the most successful clubs in Scottish history, having won numerous league and cup titles since its founding in the 19th century.
About Hawick
Hawick is the largest town in the Scottish Borders, distinguished by its historic expertise in high-end knitwear and textile manufacturing. The town is built around the confluence of the River Teviot and the Slitrig Water, creating a unique topography marked by natural landmarks like Miller's Knowes Recreation Ground. Visitors can explore the area's deep historical roots at sites like the ancient Hawick Mote or reflect at the serene Wellogate Cemetery. For those interested in 20th-century history, the remnants of Stobs Camp W1 provide a somber look at its past as a World War I internment site. The town's civic pride is further reflected in community spaces like Volunteer Park, which serves as a central hub for local leisure.
Highlights of Hawick
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Parks
This park serves as a primary outdoor recreation space centrally located for riverside walks.
Parks
These elevated grass mounds offer sweeping views over the town and the surrounding valley.
Historical places
This ancient man-made earthwork is a significant archaeological site dating back to early defensive history.
Temples
This church features distinctive ecclesiastical architecture serving the local Scottish Episcopal community.
Museums
This site offers a sobering perspective on regional history as the location of a major WWI internment camp.
Places of interest
This historic burial ground provides a quiet space reflecting the town's Victorian-era heritage.
Top things to do in Hawick
The 21 highest-rated places in Hawick, ranked by travellers.
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Natural attractions
Kielder Forest is the largest working forest in England, covering over 250 square miles of Northumberland. It is home to...
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Museums
Kielder Observatory is a public astronomical facility situated within the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, on...
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Zoos
Kielder Water Bird of Prey Centre is a specialized raptor facility located within the Kielder Water & Forest Park in Nor...
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Parks
Wilton Lodge Park is a 107-acre public green space situated along the banks of the River Teviot in Hawick, Scottish Bord...
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Historical places
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Museums
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Historical places
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Hawick on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Hawick
June, as the town hosts the annual Common Riding, offering the most authentic cultural immersion.
2 days, allowing enough time to explore the textile history, local museums, and surrounding river walks.
The town center is highly walkable, while local bus services connect to nearby Borders towns and regional hubs.
Stay in the town center for proximity to local shops and textile mills, or choose a guesthouse near the riverside for a quieter atmosphere.
Mid-range; accommodation and dining options are generally accessible compared to major cities like Edinburgh.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 21 curated attractions in and around Hawick, ranked by traveller ratings.
Kielder Forest is the highest-rated place to visit in Hawick right now.
The largest category is historical places, with 5 places to explore.
Travellers also explore London, North Kensington, Manchester.
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