Over Easter weekend (March 21-23, 2008), the Scottish town of Hawick will host one of the UK's most exciting historical festivals, the Hawick Reivers Festival. Situated near the English border, Hawick and the surrounding area was the setting for many fierce battles between the two nations, and, beginning in the 13th century, various clans in the area emerged as forces to be reckoned with in their own right. The Border Reivers, as they're known, included both Scottish and English families who took to raiding for cattle, sheep, and other provisions to survive the destitution wrought by constant war. Rather than being seen as criminals, the reivers were perceived by their countrymen to be merely protecting their families from a corrupt and bellicose monarchy. This year's festival is the biggest ever, featuring historical reenactments, equestrian events, period music and entertainment, and all kinds of food and drink. A reivers encampment will be set up at Wilton Lodge Park with special displays of falconry and archery, along with a 16th-century market, lunchtime concert, and torchlight procession. There's even a special beer brewed for the occasion, the 2008 Reivers Ale, which is probably tastier than the stuff quaffed by the original reivers. The festival is just 40 miles from the luxurious Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh.
