Romans, Reivers and the Rough Wooing: An Archaeology Tour in the Scottish Borders

Join us for a unique experience and learn how to read the landscape like an archaeologist. The Scottish Borders, packed with prehistoric hillforts and Roman forts, were witness to centuries of Anglo-Scottish Border conflicts that were instrumental in the development of a 'reiving' way of life romanticised by Walter Scott.

Only an hour from Edinburgh, our unique activity breaks will change how you see the historic landscape around you. Our small group tours are led by professional archaeologists who have worked extensively in the area and will guide you through off-the-beaten-track sites;

- Experience archaeology for yourself and ‘have a go’ at recording monuments and handling real archaeological objects

- Gain exclusive access to hidden gems off the tourist trail

- Small group size containing a maximum of six participants

- Immerse yourself in a 3 or 5-day tour and sample the wares of traditional country inns and hotels

By taking part you will directly support local Heritage Societies and Trusts whose sites and activities will be front and centre of your experience, taking you further than a traditional tour ever could.

As a not-for-profit organisation, your support will also feed back into HARP's community outreach and educational programmes, helping more people to learn new skills and engage with archeological sites and their local heritage.

HIGHLIGHTS

- Hume Castle, Village and Kirkyard

- Learn how to record an archaeological site in a fun and engaging way

- Historic Border Towns of Kelso, Jedburgh and Melrose

- Trimontium Roman Museum and Fort

- Handle actual archaeological objects

- Melrose Abbey

- Kelso Abbey

- Roxburgh Castle

- Smailholm Tower

- Abbotsford, home of Sir Walter Scott

- Dere Street, the main North-South Roman road connecting York with the Antonine Wall and location of the Battle of Ancrum Moor

INCLUSIONS

- Two group leaders/guides, including a professional archaeologist

- Entry fees for all sites visited

- Bespoke training in archaeological skills

- Access to the Borders Family History Society in Galashiels

- Behind the scenes access and artefact handling at Trimontium Museum

- Guided walk down Dere Street

- All meals from lunch on day 1 to lunch on day 3 or 5*

- 2 or 4 nights accommodation at 3-star hotels in the centre of town**

* some limits apply, does not include alcoholic drinks; breakfast and evening meals not included if you chose to organise your own accommodation.

** separate rates are available if you prefer to organise your own evening meals and accommodation.