Clockmill Circular

This walk includes a brief look at some of the historical buildings in Duns Town Centre that are part of Duns Town Trail.

Start from Duns Market Square. On the west side of the square sits the Tolbooth House. Although the building dates from the early 19th century, the clock was gifted to the town from the Rotary Club in 1976. Also of interest is the plaque which commemorates the 500th anniversary of the town’s Burgh of Barony status, awarded in 1490. On the corner of Castle Street in the square is The Whip & Saddle. Although a simple building dating from 1824, you can observe the chamfered corner on the ground floor. This architectural detail was to allow horse drawn vehicles easier passage.

1. From Market Square head along South Street. The former Dunlop Trust Hotel sits between the square and this street built in the late 19th century as a temperance hotel. The temperance movement advocated the moderation of alcohol consumption. Continue along South Street into Langtongate.

2. After 0.7km turn left towards Grueldykes. Turn right where the track meets the road. After 0.5km turn right at a T-junction, after a further 0.5km, turn right back towards the town centre.

3. As you approach the Y-junction at the edge of the town centre you may wish to return along New Road, on the left hand side of the junction. This leads into Newtown Street. The first building of interest is the Jim Clark Room a museum which houses his trophies. Although born in Fife, he spent most of his life in Berwickshire and was awarded the Freedom of the Burgh of Duns in recognition of being two times World Motor Racing Champion in the sixties. Next you can look out for 28 Newtown Street which is reputedly the oldest house in Duns. The building dates from the 18th century. Return to the Market Square by turning right along Black Bull Street.