Anne And George’s guidebook
Neighbourhoods
‘The Middle of Berwick bridge is at one end.’
The town of Berwick-Upon-Tweed lies on the opposite bank of the River Tweed and The Old Bridge is the gorgeous gateway to its centre only a 15/20 minute walk away. This bridge is a one-way traffic system coming from Berwick.
James I gave money for the Old Bridge to be constructed after he refused to cross the older wooden bridge in place at the time. James Burrell was appointed as master Mason and work began in 1611 on a more solid structure. Unfortunately, along with poor supplies and inclement weather conditions the build was slow and in 1621 all his hard work washed away in high tides.
The bridge we see now was finally finished in 1632 and has remained almost the same as it was back then. The pedestrian has no need to worry as there are many places to dodge crossing kings and their armies.
Spend time on the bridge taking in the views both up and down the river and watch the salmon fishing and notice the walk to Berwick has taken you much longer than you thought! If would like to try your hand at ‘net and coble’ fishing (coble being the little blue boats) you can by following the link here-
River Tweed Wild Salmon Co - Fishing Experience Days NOTE: This experience needs to be booked well in advance.
The Old Bridge is a great place for wildlife spotting with the many sea and land birds that visit the River Tweed and you might just spot seals or even an otter and you also get a good view of Berwick’s New Bridge! Looking beyond the New Bridge you will also spot the Royal Border Bridge which you will have travelled over if you come from the south by train.
The Royal Tweed Bridge or The New Bridge (as it is lovingly known in Berwick upon Tweed) was built to take the strain of the ever-increasing traffic from the Old Bridge. It is nearly 100 years new! Even though it is of a modern design (for the time) it is still a lovely bridge with sweeping arches that catch eye of photographers. Here you may see nesting seagulls and a good resting place for redshanks and other birds, so it is always worth a closer look.
Building started in 1925 and it was finished in 1928 with 4 concrete arches spanning the River Tweed and is 1405 feet long or 428.244 metres long and designed by L. G. Moucel.
The Royal Border Bridge
Take walk along the river to see the Royal Border Bridge up close then walk up through Castle Vale Park (a steep climb for those less able – you can enter the park from the train station – there are metal steps down near the bus stop or you can walk out of the station, do a U-turn and walk down the slope towards the pond). Turn right at the pond (not down the steps to the river) to find the viewing point. From here you get a good look at the viaduct and at night it is lit up with dancing coloured lights, though not so much during the summer months.
Note; Castle Vale Park is on the steep slopes down to the river and has many steep steps, so not very wheelchair friendly. Also, the river walk on the Berwick town side has a slight slope which may call for some strong back-up pushers for the return walk and one or two people to help with the breaks on the way down. Other than that it is a wheelchair friendly walk. However, on the Tweedmouth side you can take wheelchairs up to the bridge fairly easily. The path gets a little bit rough near to the bridge and is mainly stone. Another way for wheelchairs users to enjoy getting close to the bridge is by walking through the streets slightly higher than the river up on the Tweedmouth side.
The building of The Royal Border Bridge, started in 1847 and finished in 1850, brought the railway right into Berwick Castle! The evidence of which is only visible by the wall that climbs down the steep hill towards the river and known locally as ‘Breckyneckysteps’’ for obvious reasons - a warning to many children by their worried mothers! It has 28 arches, 12 of which are over water and the rest on dry land.
Built by Robert Stephenson out of limestone bricks surrounding a skeleton which is made of a hardwood American Elm and opened by Queen Victoria on 29th August 1850, this bridge is a piece of 1800s show of Victorian capabilities. Still standing today just as it had then, with the later addition of electricity, The bridge is a delight to see for everyone and not just the enthusiasts and photographers. There is a good information board in the station just at the bottom of the steps showing the inside design of this bridge.
There is one more bridge that crosses the Tweed near Berwick-upon-Tweed and that is the oldest suspension bridge in the country - namely Chain Bridge. At present, not present, as it was dismantled and taken away for long needed repairs and reconstruction has just started. If you take the time to drive up river towards the bridge it is well worth a look and lies a 15-minute drive away. You can walk there following the river but, you will need to be fairly fit, take a packed lunch and have good boots – not a walk for wet weather days. Also, the path is not easy to follow so pop into the visitor’s advice centre for a map. A round walk – up one side of the river and down the other (either way) will take a good walker about 4 hours. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars as there is wildlife all around. Keep an eye on the water at all times, you never know what you may see. Please check the bridge is open again before taking on such a rigorous adventure!
By this bridge you can also find the lovely Chain Bridge Honey Farm where you can purchase some honey to eat, or wax candles amongst a variety of things that make lovely gifts. On the farm you will find some vintage vehicles and farm machinery, can watch bees at work and have lunch on an old-fashioned bus. For further information please follow the link below.
Chain Bridge Honey Farm | Buy Honey & Beeswax Products or Visit Us
Berwick town Walls
The walls of Berwick-upon-Tweed are unusual and an be walked right round taking care in high places as there are no barriers and the wind is strong at times – even on sunny days!. Built by Edward1 in the 14th century following the outbreak of the first war of Scottish independence. The town alternated between Scotland and England for about 2 centuries so the walls defences were up dated regularly. Upgrades done by Elizabeth 1 being the most significant.
Berwick-upon-Tweed town is a higgledy place with houses huddled together as though for safety from the ever-approaching sea. It is a town once thought by Queen Elizabeth to be under threat from the French and the Scottish. She ordered the building of the walls you see now which are quite spectacular. You can walk around the walls but, do be careful near the edge as they are very high and it gets very windy on the top. The walls are unusual in that they are lawned. You can also walk around the lower levels if heights are not your thing!
A walk down towards the lighthouse is a must on a good day weather wise. Pop an extra sweater in your bag or take a coat and hat as the weather by the lighthouse is a far cry from the weather in the town. Stand by the wall at the end of the pier and see if you can spot our resident dolphins along with the many grey and harbour seals we have here. Watch the eider ducks too diving under the water after crabs and shells which they swallow whole. Look for the shags and the cormorants and the many other sea birds that share this stretch of the North Sea. Keep an eye out for the swans who often like to go out to sea and swim up and down the coast often flying back home.
The Pier and Lighthouse
The Pier, is on Pier Road and you will find your way to it by heading for the back of the Town Hall and walking right down Hide Hill to the Bank of Scotland where you will find Silver Street. The street wobbles its way into |Ness Street where you will see Pier Gate arch.
The Pier itself is the third to be built, the first being in 13th century. The present pier was built in the 19th century and took 11 years to build from 1810 to 1821. Constructed of sandstone cut from cliffs in Scremerston, just up the road from Tweedmouth and as a breakwater to protect ships from the strong North wind. The harbour was the area along Pier road where the ships would tie up. There is no fence along Pier Road which is open to local traffic so care is needed when walking down to the lighthouse. Get up very early and stroll down to the lighthouse to experience the rising of the sun. Something we do often and it never ceases to amaze.
The lighthouse was built in 1826 and though it is not the best lighthouse examples and doesn’t have a flashing light, it does have a story behind the building of it.
After your visit to the lighthouse you may find it necessary to warm yourselves up. Berwick has many places to purchase hot and cold food and drink, eat in or takeaways.
History
Berwick-upon-Tweed is steeped in history and is surrounded by history too, from fishing to battles it’s got the lot! To help you navigate your way through the years there is a museum in the army barracks, information boards for you to read as you walk around and you can always pop into the library or Information Centre to ask questions or pick up leaflets. Another way to gain information of course is by asking a local. Locals in Berwick are always pleased to be asked about their town and surrounding areas.
Places to Eat
There are many cafes, pubs and restaurants in Berwick-upon-Tweed to choose from. Bridge Street just over the Old Bridge is always worth a look and you should find something for everyone’s palate. Also off Bridge Street is West Street which has some hidden gems worth seeking out too.
Here is a small list of examples –
Have a good Yin at Riverside Café just off the Old Bridge on Bridge Street – always bustling this busy café takes some beating and you need to book a table to ensure you get fed!! Great place for your breakfast on your way into Berwick and to grab a bite on your way back. Serves up some lovely no nonsense food. Well behaved dogs always welcome or you can sit outside if you prefer.
Repas 7, West Street.
If you like music with your meal Repas7 have live music and also friendly conversation evenings.
Repas 7 can be found on Facebook
Cornerhouse Café – Just up Church St which can be found at the back of the Town Hall almost opposite the police station – so behave yourselves whilst dining! Well behaved dogs always welcome. Bohemian in style this lovely café is worth a try and if it is cold outside they may just have a roaring fire in the grate. Here you can buy a book or two or sit and read one. Wifi available – just ask and settle in.
Sinners Café – Hidden away on the high street just before Castle gate and down a little alley. This café is a peaceful haven from the noise of the main road and all those shoppers. Take a well-earned break here. Dogs welcome in the seating area outside.
There are many cafes to choose from in Berwick and these are just a few favourites.
We also suggest the two chip shops – The Cannon in Berwick and Foleys just down from the Riverside Café. You can sit in The Canon or take your goodies from Foleys and sit on the benches by the river and admire the view while you eat. The first bench is a little way further down.
For anyone eating outside – please, please be good citizens and put your waste into the bins provided and not leave rubbish lying around – Everyone in Berwick Thanks you for this small gesture.
Morrisons have a café – about a 40 minute walk away or during the day by bus. You would have to make sure you don’t miss the last bus back! Always check with the driver when that is!!
Go to
Visit Berwick | Holidays in Berwick-upon-Tweed UK | Official Tourist Information Website
To find lots of useful information and places of interest.
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Berwick-upon-Tweed
‘The Middle of Berwick bridge is at one end.’
The town of Berwick-Upon-Tweed lies on the opposite bank of the River Tweed and The Old Bridge is the gorgeous gateway to its centre only a 15/20 minute walk away. This bridge is a one-way traffic system coming from Berwick.
James I gave money for the Old Bridge to be constructed after he refused to cross the older wooden bridge in place at the time. James Burrell was appointed as master Mason and work began in 1611 on a more solid structure. Unfortunately, along with poor supplies and inclement weather conditions the build was slow and in 1621 all his hard work washed away in high tides.
The bridge we see now was finally finished in 1632 and has remained almost the same as it was back then. The pedestrian has no need to worry as there are many places to dodge crossing kings and their armies.
Spend time on the bridge taking in the views both up and down the river and watch the salmon fishing and notice the walk to Berwick has taken you much longer than you thought! If would like to try your hand at ‘net and coble’ fishing (coble being the little blue boats) you can by following the link here-
River Tweed Wild Salmon Co - Fishing Experience Days NOTE: This experience needs to be booked well in advance.
The Old Bridge is a great place for wildlife spotting with the many sea and land birds that visit the River Tweed and you might just spot seals or even an otter and you also get a good view of Berwick’s New Bridge! Looking beyond the New Bridge you will also spot the Royal Border Bridge which you will have travelled over if you come from the south by train.
The Royal Tweed Bridge or The New Bridge (as it is lovingly known in Berwick upon Tweed) was built to take the strain of the ever-increasing traffic from the Old Bridge. It is nearly 100 years new! Even though it is of a modern design (for the time) it is still a lovely bridge with sweeping arches that catch eye of photographers. Here you may see nesting seagulls and a good resting place for redshanks and other birds, so it is always worth a closer look.
Building started in 1925 and it was finished in 1928 with 4 concrete arches spanning the River Tweed and is 1405 feet long or 428.244 metres long and designed by L. G. Moucel.
The Royal Border Bridge
Take walk along the river to see the Royal Border Bridge up close then walk up through Castle Vale Park (a steep climb for those less able – you can enter the park from the train station – there are metal steps down near the bus stop or you can walk out of the station, do a U-turn and walk down the slope towards the pond). Turn right at the pond (not down the steps to the river) to find the viewing point. From here you get a good look at the viaduct and at night it is lit up with dancing coloured lights, though not so much during the summer months.
Note; Castle Vale Park is on the steep slopes down to the river and has many steep steps, so not very wheelchair friendly. Also, the river walk on the Berwick town side has a slight slope which may call for some strong back-up pushers for the return walk and one or two people to help with the breaks on the way down. Other than that it is a wheelchair friendly walk. However, on the Tweedmouth side you can take wheelchairs up to the bridge fairly easily. The path gets a little bit rough near to the bridge and is mainly stone. Another way for wheelchairs users to enjoy getting close to the bridge is by walking through the streets slightly higher than the river up on the Tweedmouth side.
The building of The Royal Border Bridge, started in 1847 and finished in 1850, brought the railway right into Berwick Castle! The evidence of which is only visible by the wall that climbs down the steep hill towards the river and known locally as ‘Breckyneckysteps’’ for obvious reasons - a warning to many children by their worried mothers! It has 28 arches, 12 of which are over water and the rest on dry land.
Built by Robert Stephenson out of limestone bricks surrounding a skeleton which is made of a hardwood American Elm and opened by Queen Victoria on 29th August 1850, this bridge is a piece of 1800s show of Victorian capabilities. Still standing today just as it had then, with the later addition of electricity, The bridge is a delight to see for everyone and not just the enthusiasts and photographers. There is a good information board in the station just at the bottom of the steps showing the inside design of this bridge.
There is one more bridge that crosses the Tweed near Berwick-upon-Tweed and that is the oldest suspension bridge in the country - namely Chain Bridge. At present, not present, as it was dismantled and taken away for long needed repairs and reconstruction has just started. If you take the time to drive up river towards the bridge it is well worth a look and lies a 15-minute drive away. You can walk there following the river but, you will need to be fairly fit, take a packed lunch and have good boots – not a walk for wet weather days. Also, the path is not easy to follow so pop into the visitor’s advice centre for a map. A round walk – up one side of the river and down the other (either way) will take a good walker about 4 hours. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars as there is wildlife all around. Keep an eye on the water at all times, you never know what you may see. Please check the bridge is open again before taking on such a rigorous adventure!
By this bridge you can also find the lovely Chain Bridge Honey Farm where you can purchase some honey to eat, or wax candles amongst a variety of things that make lovely gifts. On the farm you will find some vintage vehicles and farm machinery, can watch bees at work and have lunch on an old-fashioned bus. For further information please follow the link below.
Chain Bridge Honey Farm | Buy Honey & Beeswax Products or Visit Us
Berwick town Walls
The walls of Berwick-upon-Tweed are unusual and an be walked right round taking care in high places as there are no barriers and the wind is strong at times – even on sunny days!. Built by Edward1 in the 14th century following the outbreak of the first war of Scottish independence. The town alternated between Scotland and England for about 2 centuries so the walls defences were up dated regularly. Upgrades done by Elizabeth 1 being the most significant.
Berwick-upon-Tweed town is a higgledy place with houses huddled together as though for safety from the ever-approaching sea. It is a town once thought by Queen Elizabeth to be under threat from the French and the Scottish. She ordered the building of the walls you see now which are quite spectacular. You can walk around the walls but, do be careful near the edge as they are very high and it gets very windy on the top. The walls are unusual in that they are lawned. You can also walk around the lower levels if heights are not your thing!
A walk down towards the lighthouse is a must on a good day weather wise. Pop an extra sweater in your bag or take a coat and hat as the weather by the lighthouse is a far cry from the weather in the town. Stand by the wall at the end of the pier and see if you can spot our resident dolphins along with the many grey and harbour seals we have here. Watch the eider ducks too diving under the water after crabs and shells which they swallow whole. Look for the shags and the cormorants and the many other sea birds that share this stretch of the North Sea. Keep an eye out for the swans who often like to go out to sea and swim up and down the coast often flying back home.
The Pier and Lighthouse
The Pier, is on Pier Road and you will find your way to it by heading for the back of the Town Hall and walking right down Hide Hill to the Bank of Scotland where you will find Silver Street. The street wobbles its way into |Ness Street where you will see Pier Gate arch.
The Pier itself is the third to be built, the first being in 13th century. The present pier was built in the 19th century and took 11 years to build from 1810 to 1821. Constructed of sandstone cut from cliffs in Scremerston, just up the road from Tweedmouth and as a breakwater to protect ships from the strong North wind. The harbour was the area along Pier road where the ships would tie up. There is no fence along Pier Road which is open to local traffic so care is needed when walking down to the lighthouse. Get up very early and stroll down to the lighthouse to experience the rising of the sun. Something we do often and it never ceases to amaze.
The lighthouse was built in 1826 and though it is not the best lighthouse examples and doesn’t have a flashing light, it does have a story behind the building of it.
After your visit to the lighthouse you may find it necessary to warm yourselves up. Berwick has many places to purchase hot and cold food and drink, eat in or takeaways.
History
Berwick-upon-Tweed is steeped in history and is surrounded by history too, from fishing to battles it’s got the lot! To help you navigate your way through the years there is a museum in the army barracks, information boards for you to read as you walk around and you can always pop into the library or Information Centre to ask questions or pick up leaflets. Another way to gain information of course is by asking a local. Locals in Berwick are always pleased to be asked about their town and surrounding areas.
Places to Eat
There are many cafes, pubs and restaurants in Berwick-upon-Tweed to choose from. Bridge Street just over the Old Bridge is always worth a look and you should find something for everyone’s palate. Also off Bridge Street is West Street which has some hidden gems worth seeking out too.
Here is a small list of examples –
Have a good Yin at Riverside Café just off the Old Bridge on Bridge Street – always bustling this busy café takes some beating and you need to book a table to ensure you get fed!! Great place for your breakfast on your way into Berwick and to grab a bite on your way back. Serves up some lovely no nonsense food. Well behaved dogs always welcome or you can sit outside if you prefer.
Repas 7, West Street.
If you like music with your meal Repas7 have live music and also friendly conversation evenings.
Repas 7 can be found on Facebook
Cornerhouse Café – Just up Church St which can be found at the back of the Town Hall almost opposite the police station – so behave yourselves whilst dining! Well behaved dogs always welcome. Bohemian in style this lovely café is worth a try and if it is cold outside they may just have a roaring fire in the grate. Here you can buy a book or two or sit and read one. Wifi available – just ask and settle in.
Sinners Café – Hidden away on the high street just before Castle gate and down a little alley. This café is a peaceful haven from the noise of the main road and all those shoppers. Take a well-earned break here. Dogs welcome in the seating area outside.
There are many cafes to choose from in Berwick and these are just a few favourites.
We also suggest the two chip shops – The Cannon in Berwick and Foleys just down from the Riverside Café. You can sit in The Canon or take your goodies from Foleys and sit on the benches by the river and admire the view while you eat. The first bench is a little way further down.
For anyone eating outside – please, please be good citizens and put your waste into the bins provided and not leave rubbish lying around – Everyone in Berwick Thanks you for this small gesture.
Morrisons have a café – about a 40 minute walk away or during the day by bus. You would have to make sure you don’t miss the last bus back! Always check with the driver when that is!!
Go to
Visit Berwick | Holidays in Berwick-upon-Tweed UK | Official Tourist Information Website
To find lots of useful information and places of interest.
Berwick Theatre/livemusic/cinema venue at The Maltings off West Street
Here you can find a number of different events taking place under one roof. There is also a bar that serves tea and coffee and a restaurant style cafe. Somethings need advanced booking and some you can just turn up and pay on the day. Take a look to see what is happening on the days you are in Berwick. Not all events are hosted at the Maltings Theatre.
https://www.maltingsberwick.co.uk
Berwick-upon-Tweed is the Home of Great Speedway – Yes, you have to be here on the right Saturday evenings during the season – it’s worth planning for and George can tell you all about it before you visit. The speedway always attracts a good crowd all coming to see the races, hear the roar of the bikes and hope their favourite rider doesn’t hit the dirt!
Yes, it is dangerous, yes, they have no brakes and yes, it is loads of fun for you and the family. It is almost wheelchair friendly – well a group of strong tough and handsome guys will carry you and your chair into the stadium! What more could you wish for?
So go along and cheer for your favourite rider – haven’t got one – then just choose your favourite colour – white, red, blue or yellow – it’s that simple. Ask the people standing next to you what it is all about and they will be happy to tell you. Just wear some old clothes as it can be very dusty at times and don’t worry everyone’s faces will be dirty by the end of the night! It’s all part of the entertainment. Meet the team and watch out for the Bandit too and if he grows or shrinks in size whistle!
It’s noisy, it’s full of great grub, hot and cold drinks, it has a great atmosphere and you never know your own local team may just be the opposition!
More information can be found by following these links –
Tickets - Berwick Bandits Speedway (berwickspeedway.com)
Berwick Bandits Speedway
Shielfield ParkBerwick-upon-Tweed is the Home of Great Speedway – Yes, you have to be here on the right Saturday evenings during the season – it’s worth planning for and George can tell you all about it before you visit. The speedway always attracts a good crowd all coming to see the races, hear the roar of the bikes and hope their favourite rider doesn’t hit the dirt!
Yes, it is dangerous, yes, they have no brakes and yes, it is loads of fun for you and the family. It is almost wheelchair friendly – well a group of strong tough and handsome guys will carry you and your chair into the stadium! What more could you wish for?
So go along and cheer for your favourite rider – haven’t got one – then just choose your favourite colour – white, red, blue or yellow – it’s that simple. Ask the people standing next to you what it is all about and they will be happy to tell you. Just wear some old clothes as it can be very dusty at times and don’t worry everyone’s faces will be dirty by the end of the night! It’s all part of the entertainment. Meet the team and watch out for the Bandit too and if he grows or shrinks in size whistle!
It’s noisy, it’s full of great grub, hot and cold drinks, it has a great atmosphere and you never know your own local team may just be the opposition!
More information can be found by following these links –
Tickets - Berwick Bandits Speedway (berwickspeedway.com)
The solitude of the Tweed, wildlife, adventure
Walk the lower Tweed Trail.
This is for more agile amongst us and used to walking with a pair of good boots and a packed lunch! Super for spotting wildlife and birds. This is a long route – approx 20 miles one way!
Berwick to Horncliffe – 6 miles
Horncliffe to Norham 4 miles
Norham to coldstream 10 miles
There is a bus you can use if you would like to split the journey into sections. Details of the Berwick to Cornhill bus can be found here – 67 - Galashiels to Berwick-Upon-Tweed | Borders Buses.
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River Tweed
Walk the lower Tweed Trail.
This is for more agile amongst us and used to walking with a pair of good boots and a packed lunch! Super for spotting wildlife and birds. This is a long route – approx 20 miles one way!
Berwick to Horncliffe – 6 miles
Horncliffe to Norham 4 miles
Norham to coldstream 10 miles
There is a bus you can use if you would like to split the journey into sections. Details of the Berwick to Cornhill bus can be found here – 67 - Galashiels to Berwick-Upon-Tweed | Borders Buses.
Sells very nice cakes!
Information Centre and Library
The library is found on Walkergate in Berwick on the right-hand side and further down on the opposite side you find the Information Centre.
The Information Centre has a café where they sell hot drinks and cakes. The staff here are very friendly and love a chat. You can go through to the back room and see some of the things that are on display including the beautifully embroidered tapestry depicting our town through the years. There is also a book about the town’s history for sale at the centre which follows the history through the tapestry.
They also show a short film about the town history and the present day.
71 personas locales recomiendan
Berwick-upon-Tweed
Information Centre and Library
The library is found on Walkergate in Berwick on the right-hand side and further down on the opposite side you find the Information Centre.
The Information Centre has a café where they sell hot drinks and cakes. The staff here are very friendly and love a chat. You can go through to the back room and see some of the things that are on display including the beautifully embroidered tapestry depicting our town through the years. There is also a book about the town’s history for sale at the centre which follows the history through the tapestry.
They also show a short film about the town history and the present day.
Sightseeing
There is so much to see and do in Northumberland we can't possibly add the lot. There is a drawer full of leaflets and we will be happy to look up and book for you anything you would like to do. Just ask and we will help where we can.
21 personas locales recomiendan
Northumberland
There is so much to see and do in Northumberland we can't possibly add the lot. There is a drawer full of leaflets and we will be happy to look up and book for you anything you would like to do. Just ask and we will help where we can.