Every July, the town of Annan on the Solway Firth comes alive with one of its most cherished traditions: the Riding of the Marches. This annual event dates back more than 600 years, when Annan was first created a Royal Burgh. More than 100 horsemen and horsewomen saddle up to ride the town’s historic boundaries, checking that landmarks, cairns and other features remain undisturbed. What makes Annan’s celebrations truly unique is its spectacular ride along the beach. A rare sight that is only possible when tide times allow.

A tradition hundreds of years in the making, Annan’s Riding of the Marches is a must-see event that brings together heritage, community and pageantry.

When is the Riding of the Marches?

The Annan Riding of the Marches takes place in July every year, with the ceremonial day traditionally being the first Saturday of the month. For exact dates and full details, please see our events calendar.  

What to Expect: Ceremonial Day Schedule

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5.30 am: Bugle Call Reveille

The early call on the bugle marks the official start of the day’s festivities and ceremonial ride.

7.45 am: Procession to the Market Square and Rider Muster

The Cornet, his Lass and the Standard Bearer ride from the Fish Cross to the Market Square, where the Cornet is entrusted with the Royal Burgh Standard to show at all the Boundary Points. All riders muster in Murray Street and High Street (where they will be informally judged for the best turned out riders) and then fall in behind the Principals.  

8.00 am: “Safe Oot! Safe In!”

The Official Party lead the cavalcade along the High Street, into Battery Street and onto the Everholm. 

8.30 am: Hole in the Hedge Ceremony and Riding of the Boundaries

At Landheads, the cavalcade stop for the traditional Hole in the Hedge Ceremony and the passing of the Burgh Snuffbox. Following this, the riders set off on a 15-mile route around Annan’s historic boundaries, stopping at key landmarks. The procession then returns via the High Street, past the Fish Cross and back to the Market Square.

1.45 pm: Afternoon at the Academy

The Annan Riding of the Marches offers fun and entertainment for all the family. Spectators can head to the Greenknowe Playing Fields for food stalls, entertainment and activities, including a mini Highland Games and the Pipe Band Contest.

5.50 pm: Presentation of Trophies

At the Market Square, the Cornet hands back the Burgh Standard following the presentation of trophies for the Pipe Band Contest and Fancy Dress Parade.

6.15 pm: The Grand Finale

The day concludes with a spectacular gathering of pipe bands from across Scotland and the North of England.

Unique Local Traditions 

The “Hole in the Hedge” ceremony at Landheads is a standout tradition based on a local legend. There once stood Willie Crone’s Smithy in place of the hedge, and it is claimed a young boy was pushed through the window to look out for approaching raiders. Today, a local boy is chosen to be ‘skelped’ through the hedge to commemorate the tale.

Dating back to 1807, the Burgh Snuffbox is another cherished tradition. Gifted by Brigadier General Dirom to the Burgh of Annan, a ceremonial pinch of snuff us taken by the principal. (just the principal? or anybody else?)

Best Viewing Spots and Spectator Access

Want to catch the action? On the main day of the Annan Riding of the Marches, these are the best spots to watch:

  • High Street, Annan (8.00am): Handover of the Burgh Standard
  • North Street, Annan (8.00am): See the horses gallop across Everholm. 
  • Landheads (8.30am): Witness the Snuff Taking & Hole in Hedge ceremony.   
  • Chapelcross Runway: An official stop for riders and spectators with great views.  
  • High Street, Annan (1.00pm): Watch the Cavalcade of Horses, parade floats, and Queen of the Border.  
  • Market Square, Annan (5.45pm): Return of Burgh Standard followed by the spectacular Massed Pipe Bands finale.   
Annan, image courtesy of VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Ride Outs in the Lead Up

In many towns, ride outs take place in the weeks leading up to the main ceremonial day or week. These offer a more relaxed but equally stunning way to see the horses and riders in action, as routes often include local beauty spots. These less formal events offer a chance to enjoy the scenic views, picnic with family and friends, and support the build-up to the main events.

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Top Tips for Ride Outs

Bring cash: Many locations are cash only for parking and refreshments

Listen to marshals and respect land access

Buy the official brochure: It provides route maps, schedules and is a great way to support the event

Annan Ride Outs

Newbie Supports Rideout  

Carr’s Rideout  

Powfoot

The Whins Standard Bearers  

The Thorns Cornets

Lass Rideout