28th - 30th March 2025

The 2025 Festival

The 2025 Reivers Festival will take place from 28th until 30th March 2025 in Hawick, Scottish Borders. A weekend of 16th century fun is scheduled to take place, and once again there will be keen history enthusiasts descending on Hawick. For all of the details, time-table of events and more, check out our dedicated 2025 page…

A Border Reiver was a raider who operated along the Anglo-Scottish border from the late 13th to early 17th century. Known for their fierce loyalty to their families and clans, the Reivers were skilled horsemen, often engaging in cattle theft, skirmishes, and battles to survive in a turbulent frontier. During this time, the region was marked by feuds, shifting allegiances, and a harsh climate, making the Reivers both feared and respected.

Hawick, a historic town nestled in the Scottish Borders, was at the heart of this Reiver culture. As a stronghold for several powerful families, Hawick’s people became known for their resilience, resourcefulness, and pride. This heritage lives on today through the Hawick Reivers Festival, an annual event celebrating the town's Reiver past. Visitors to the festival can experience reenactments, storytelling, music, and dance that bring to life the gritty and vibrant history of the Border Reivers.

A trip to Hawick offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past and allows visitors to connect with a legacy of courage and kinship. Embrace the spirit of the Reivers and discover why this story still resonates in Hawick today.

  • "It is one of the highlights of our year!"

  • "I make the trip across every year. I love how the local childen are involved!"

  • "Well done to all the organisers. A great event in a beautiful place!"

  • "I stumbled on the festival when I passed through Hawick in 2008... and now I've been back 6 times!"