Things To Do
in Hawick
Hawick is a historic town in the Scottish Borders set on the Teviot River, known for its rich textile and knitwear heritage. It blends traditional pubs, independent shops, and a welcoming community atmosphere with nearby countryside abundance. The town sits at the edge of rolling Borders hills, offering convenient access to scenic walks and border town ancestry.
With a strong sense of local pride and a family-friendly vibe, Hawick serves as a gateway to both culture and outdoor adventure in the Borders.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the charming town of Hawick, nestled in the picturesque Scottish Borders. Take a leisurely stroll through the town center to soak in the local architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a welcoming breakfast at a cozy café, sampling traditional Scottish fare.
Explore the Heritage Hub, where you can discover the town's history and its significance in the woolen industry. Afterward, take a scenic walk by the River Teviot, basking in the natural beauty surrounding you. Browse local shops for woolen goods, showcasing the region's textiles.
Dine at a local restaurant featuring seasonal produce and the best of Scottish cuisine. As night falls, consider attending a live music performance at a local pub, immersing yourself in the area's rich cultural scene. Wrap up your first day with a peaceful walk along the riverbanks, enjoying the serene sounds of water.
Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation before venturing to the iconic Hawick Museum. The museum houses fascinating exhibits that celebrate the town’s history, including its contribution to knitting and textiles. Spend some time in the museum's gardens, relishing the tranquility and beautiful blooms.
Next, head to Wilton Lodge Park, a stunning green space perfect for a leisurely picnic. After enjoying lunch outdoors, explore the park's various trails, stopping at the impressive waterfall and, if open, the nearby art gallery. Experience the local wildlife as you walk along paths that meander through wooded areas.
In the evening, savor dinner at a traditional pub that dates back centuries. Enjoy a warm atmosphere while tasting local ales and hearty dishes perfect for replenishing your energy. If you’re feeling adventurous, join a ghost tour that shares chilling tales of Hawick’s past under the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket | $3-7 |
| 🏨One-night accommodation | $75-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich textile and border-town heritage with a strong sense of community
- Beautiful countryside access and close proximity to historic ruins and castles
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Public transport can be infrequent outside peak times
Places to Visit in Hawick
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful street scenes and historic shopfronts in the heart of Hawick make for classic town photography, especially with morning light.
Glimmering views along the Teviot with bridges framing reflections and silhouettes, ideal at golden hour.
Riverside walkways, lawns, and trees provide peaceful portraits and nature shots, especially in spring and autumn.
Open grounds and surrounding edging offer dynamic sports and landscape photography during late-day skies.
Food in Hawick
Hawick Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty game pie featuring locally sourced venison and Border herbs, commonly served in town pubs and eateries.
Must-Try!
A regional staple made from split peas, often enjoyed on toast or as part of a breakfast or snack plate.
The classic Scottish combination of haggis with mashed turnip and potatoes, widely available in Borders dining rooms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in Market Place featuring local produce, meat, cheeses, and baked goods from Border producers.
Seasonal stalls around town offering fresh meat, dairy, and produce from nearby farms.
Seasonal events and pop-ups in the town centre presenting small-batch bites from regional cooks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect queues, greet with a friendly hello, and chat calmly with locals; modest dress is typical for everyday venues.
Buy from local pubs, shops, and markets when possible to support the Border economy.
Safety
Tipping in Hawick
Ensure a smooth experience
In pubs and restaurants, rounding up or leaving 10-15% if service isn’t included is common; check if a service charge is included on the bill.
Cards (contactless and chip-and-pin) are widely accepted; cash is still usable, especially in smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and outdoor events make it ideal for riverside walks, markets, and hill trails.
Crisp air and turning leaves create great photographic and walking conditions; expect more rainfall pockets.
Colder, wetter days with shorter daylight; plan for heated pubs, cosy cafes, and possible snow on higher ground.
Blooming landscapes and milder days invite nature walks and early-season photography along the Teviot valley.
Hawick at Night
Hiking in Hawick
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat-to-moderate riverside trail suitable for all abilities with views of the Teviot.
Short to moderate hikes with castle ruins and scenic valley panoramas.
Accessible countryside hikes and viewpoints offering sweeping border landscapes.
Dramatic ruins and rugged moorland exploring a little further afield.
Airports
How to reach Hawick by plane.
Major international gateway; about a 1.5–2.5 hour drive depending on route and traffic.
Large hub offering wide international and domestic options; about 2.5–3 hours by road.
Extensive international and domestic connections; roughly 2.5–3 hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong in the town with good schools and community services; safe, friendly environment.
Historically linked to textiles and agriculture, now diversified with services and small businesses.
Visitors drawn to borders heritage, outdoor trails, and rustic Scottish town life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong regional culture in the Scottish Borders; local clubs and match days contribute to community spirit.
Local clubs and amateur teams provide weekend fixtures and community events.
Borders courses offer scenic play with rolling landscapes and river views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hawick.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in pubs and cafes; look for veggie pies, mushroom dishes, salads, and vegetable sides; don’t hesitate to ask about meat-free stocks and sauces.