The most northerly town in England, Berwick-upon-Tweed is a traditional market town at the mouth of the River Tweed. Historically it was a strategic trophy fought over between Scottish and English forces, with atmospheric castle ruins and well-preserved ramparts dotted across its landscape.

Things to do

Explore the 13th-century ruins of Berwick Castle, which lie just outside the town centre, then wander along the Elizabethan ramparts, some of the finest of their kind in England. Interpretive panels are located along the circuit route, detailing the role of these defences throughout the history of Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Venture over to Berwick Bridge, a 17th-century sandstone structure that spans the River Tweed. Pedestrian paths flank its one-way road, offering magnificent views of the bustling Royal Tweed Bridge and the railway viaduct of the Royal Border Bridge.

In the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed is the Church of the Holy Trinity, which is one of only three churches built during the 17th-century Commonwealth of England. It features beautiful stained-glass windows and Tuscan arcades, as well as a carefully restored 19th-century organ built by Harrison & Harrison.

Gain insight into the life of British infantrymen at the Berwick Barracks, built to protect the town during Jacobite uprisings in the early-18th century. Explore the engaging exhibits, military artefacts and historic artworks to discover how Berwick has changed hands between England and Scotland no fewer than 14 times.

Getting around

Berwick is around 45 minutes by train from Edinburgh or just under four hours from London. Buses travel throughout the town, while its city centre is small enough to explore on foot.