In this day and age the regional area of the Scottish Borders has large townships born out of the industrial revolution – but yet, there is no place that is recognised in the sleepy, hassle-less region to be a city.
It may be strange to learn that there was once 2 cities within the Scottish Borders in the 13th and 14th centuries that were highly regarded as the centre of European politics and economy.
But what has become of these 2 great cities?
In this video we find out why once these cities existed and why now they ceased to exist with little or no evidence traces to their former existence.
Filmed on locations at:
• Smailholm Tower – near Kelso
• Berwick-Upon-Tweed – city walls, castle, train station – Berwickshire
• Roxburgh Castle – near Kelso
• Hume Castle – Between Greenlaw and Kelso
• Kelso Abbey – Kelso, Roxburghshire
• Flodden or Branxton Moor – near Wooler, Northumberland
Researched, Written and Presented by Mark Nicol
1. Roxburgh
Historical Significance:
- Roxburgh, situated near the River Teviot, was an important royal burgh in the medieval period. It enjoyed a strategic location that made it a vital center for trade and agriculture.
- The town was one of the key sites of conflict during the Wars of Scottish Independence. It was originally a stronghold of the Scottish kings. In 1460, it was the site of the last royal council held before it fell into English hands.
Political Importance:
- Roxburgh served as a political hub, with the presence of the castle and its role as a royal residence. It was frequently mentioned in royal charters and documents, emphasizing its importance in the governance of Scotland during this period.
- The castle of Roxburgh was influential in military strategies, serving as a base for campaigns against English forces and vice versa.
Economic Role:
- As a center of trade and commerce, Roxburgh facilitated economic interactions with England and the continent. The market in Roxburgh was a busy one, helping to sustain the local economy.
2. Berwick-upon-Tweed
Historical Significance:
- Berwick-upon-Tweed was perhaps even more prominent in terms of its geopolitical significance. Its strategic position on the border between England and Scotland made it a focal point for conflict and trade.
- The town changed hands several times during the Wars of Scottish Independence, often serving as a military stronghold for both nations.
Economic Hub:
- Berwick became a thriving port town, allowing for significant commercial activity. Its markets were well-known, and trade routes connected it to various regions across Europe.
- The harbor facilitated maritime trade, making Berwick an important economic center, particularly for fishing and the export of goods.
Political Center:
- Serving as a royal burgh, Berwick had a degree of autonomy, allowing it to participate in the politics of the time significantly. It was involved in various treaties and negotiations between England and Scotland.
Cultural Impact
- Both Roxburgh and Berwick-upon-Tweed played essential roles in shaping the culture of the Scottish Borders during this tumultuous period.
- They were centers of political discourse, trade, and military strategy, influencing the social fabric of Scotland and contributing to the broader narrative of Scottish independence.
Conclusion
Roxburgh and Berwick-upon-Tweed were indeed significant cities that shaped the political and economic landscape of the Scottish Borders in the 13th and 14th centuries. Their strategic locations and roles in trade and conflict illustrate the historical importance of this region during a pivotal time in Scottish history. Today, they continue to be remembered as key historical sites, reflecting the enduring legacy of Scotland’s struggle for sovereignty and identity.
