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Northumberland · North East · England
The Lawless Frontier: The Anglo-Scottish Borders
Starting From
From $1,371.86 per person
Current Project Expedition rate
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Project Expedition
The Experience
What your day looks like
A stirring history of the border region of North-East England, from its infamous outlaw clans to the territorial battles between the English and Scottish kingdoms. On this rousing journey through the original “Wild West” – the Anglo-Scottish borders located north of Newcastle upon Tyne – discover how the area transformed from the domain of ancient British tribes to a dangerous no-man’s land of intense violence, illegality, and chaotic clan warfare. This is an exciting story of the struggle between warring nations that emerged from Roman Britain, the immense power of medieval lords, and the struggle for control of rowdy border families by successive Tudor and Stuart governments.
At a Glance
The experience, in brief
- Explore the dramatic history of the AngloScottish borderlands
- Discover Roman forts, medieval castles, and fortified clan towers
- Learn about the violent world of border reivers and medieval warfare
Your Itinerary
Your day, step by step
Day 1
Northumberland
Archaeological Exploration at Hadrian's Wall. Hadrian’s Wall Exploration: Explore the famous frontier constructed by the forces of Hadrian around 122 CE. Journey through the Northumbrian countryside while your expert guide explains the background, construction, and function of this engineering marvel. Learn how the Romans created a practical and psychological division between British tribes north and south of the new frontier.
Continued
Northumberland
Archaeological Exploration at Housesteads Roman Fort. Housesteads Roman Fort: Visit the fort’s on-site museum and archaeological remains. Discover imperial stone sculpture, tools, and other treasures of Roman soldiers. Explore the excavated barracks and learn about the complex cultures and perspectives of the people who lived along the wall.
Continued
Northumberland
Lunch Stop: Location: Twice Brewed Inn Enjoy a lunch break before continuing the journey.
Continued
Northumberland
Archaeological Exploration at Vindolanda Fort. Vindolanda Roman Fort: Discover the evolution and cultural diversity of the Roman world through excavated barracks and artefacts such as weapons, tools, coins, clothing, and pottery.
Continued
Northumberland
End of the day! Back to your accommodation. (Not included)
Day 2
Berwick-upon-Tweed
Sightseeing. Berwick Exploration: Explore this heavily fortified Scottish trading port that experienced intense violence during the Anglo-Scottish wars. Learn how the city changed hands many times during the medieval period. Discover its historic defenses, battles, and brutal episodes, including the display of the arm of William Wallace after his execution in 1305.
Continued
Northumberland
Sightseeing at Alnwick Castle. Alnwick Castle: Discover the role of powerful northern lords such as the Percy family. Learn how they defended the region from Scottish attacks, suppressed internal rebellions, and sometimes defied the English crown.
Continued
Northumberland
Sightseeing at Norham Castle. Norham Castle: Explore another important fortress in the struggle between England and Scotland and its role in the Anglo-Scottish Wars.
Continued
Northumberland
End of the day! Back to your accommodation. (Not included)
Day 3
Northumberland
Sightseeing at Smailholm Tower. Smailholm Tower: Travel into the world of the Pringle family, who built this fortified tower, also known as a Pele Tower, to protect themselves against English raiders and rival Scottish families. Discover the violent lives of the “Border Reivers,” clans who survived through cattle raiding, property destruction, and murder.
Continued
Kelso
Archaeological Exploration at Cessford Castle. Cessford Castle: Explore this immense castle, which was besieged during the Tudor period and witnessed violent conflicts between powerful reiver families such as the Kerrs and Scotts. This site marks the final stop of the tour.
Before You Go
What to know before booking
Included
Full collection and drop-off service from your chosen pick-up point Entry to all sites
Not Included
For groups of four or fewer, an additional £500 applies for collection and drop-off in Edinburgh Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
What to Bring
Appropriate clothes & Comfortable shoes
Meeting & Pickup
Full collection and drop-off service from your chosen pick-up point.
Languages Offered
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Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: No Confirmation: Manual By Business
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