Coldstream Civic Week celebrates the town’s history and heritage. It features traditional ride-outs—most notably the Flodden Ride commemorating the 1513 battle—plus a torchlight procession, fancy dress, and the introduction of the Coldstreamer.

There is a week of events with several popular rideouts, but the main day is the Thursday with the ride to the Battle of Flodden Field on Branxton Hill.

When is the Coldstream Civic Week?

Coldstream Civic Week is in August with the main Flodden day is the Thursday of the 1st full week in August. For exact dates and full details, please see our events calendar.  

What to Expect: Coldstream Schedule

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10.00am: Riders Assemble on the Lees for Best Turned Out

Judging of the best turned out horse and rider will take place on the small grassed area on the left as you enter the Lees

https://w3w.co/doubt.officer.vessel

10.30am: Cavalcade departs

The cavalcade heads to Flodden Field, foot followers are able to head to Branxton Hill by car. Parking is cash only.

12.00am: Flodden Memorial 

The Coldstreamer lays a wreath at the Flodden Memorial at the bottom of Branxton Hill before making their way across the Hill at a gallop, get the camera ready.

1.15pm: Flodden Service – Braxton Hill

1.30 pm: Sod Cutting 

The Coldstreamer cuts a sod of earth to return to Coldstream.

2.30pm: Cavalcade leaves for Coldstream

 5.00PM: Cavalcade arrives back into Coldstream

Times are indicative only, as they dependant on how the ride progresses.

6.30pm: Abbey Ceremony 

The reading of the Royal Charter and laying of Flodden turf with a lament for the fallen.

Best Viewing Spots and Spectator Access

Want to watch the action during the Braw Lads’ Gathering? These are some of the best spots to watch:

  • Fording the River Tweed to Abbotsford (9am): Head to Galafoot Bridge or the riverbank to watch the cavalcade ford the Tweed.
  • Gala Hill (from 10am): The town’s local hill is a great viewing spot to watch the cavalcade gallop across.
  • Galashiels Old Town Cross (10.30am): Don’t miss the pipe band performances and symbolic ceremonies.

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 riders in action, as routes often include local beauty spots. The less formal events offer a chance to enjoy the scenic views, 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

Coldstream Civic Week Ride Outs

All rideouts leave from the Lees

  • Norham
  • The Hirsel Ride – A fast paced ride, not suitable for lead rein / novice riders. The ride goes to Letiholm and and Birgham