If you are planning your spring or summer adventures, why don’t you come over to our “neck of the woods” and visit the Tweed Valley where FINDRA was founded. There are lots of reasons to visit the Valley where seven beautiful forests line the banks of the River Tweed. Whether you enjoy a quiet walk and picnic, a tree-top adventure, a glimpse into the prehistoric past or to check out some of Britain's best mountain biking trails, you will find it here in the Scottish Borders.
There are also lots of great organised events and we have picked 5 to inspire you to come and visit our homeland!
1. TweedLove Bike festival - 14th to 16th June 2024
TweedLove has grown into a cycling spectacular for all the family. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just like to watch people in lycra get sprayed with water pistols (who doesn't?), there is something for everyone at TweedLove. The two week long festival culminates with a cycling bonanza weekend on the 14th to 16th June, TweedLove on the Green, which includes the UK’s biggest demo bike event, an urban cycle race in and around Peebles town, a road cycle event, a family ride and a 2-day mountain bike event attracting people from around the world.
You’ll find food, music, stalls, beer and a party atmosphere in the heart of Peebles all weekend. TweedLove puts on events in The Valley throughout the Summer, including a Glentress TweedLove Family Day. You can find their schedule by following the link above.
2. Beyond Borders Festival at Traquair House - 24th and 25th August 2024
The Beyond Borders International Festival is an annual weekend-long event encompassing panel discussions and debates alongside a programme of music, visual and performing arts, film, spoken word, and well-being activities such as meditation, yoga, walks, and cycle rides. The event takes place at Traquair House in the Scottish Borders, where this magnificent historical backdrop plays host to discussions, exhibitions, visual and performing art, film and other events exploring the most pressing global issues of our time.
While the 2024 programme has yet to be released, in 2023 there was a wide range of speakers such as Prue Leith, Nicola Sturgeon, Lindsey Hilsum and more. Music was performed by a range of talents including Barbara Dickson and Alice Strange.
2. Galashiels Spring Walking Festival 26th to 28th April 2024
Galashiels Walking Festivals are organised by Hike & Bike Hub, with a small team of passionate, knowledgeable and trained volunteer walk leaders.
There are 2-3 walks offered each day of the Festival with a variety of levels to suit the participants. This year, we are collaborating with Connecting Threads: “Town to River, River to Town” to offer something slightly different on two of the walks! the festival partners with Connecting Threads, who aim to preserve the environment and culture of the River Tweed in order to offer a new aspect to the walks.
4. The Two Breweries Hill Race - 28th September 2024
An iconic, and challenging, hill run between two breweries (Traquair and Broughton) that covers 30km and 1,500m of ascent in the wild hills of the Tweed Valley and beyond. It’s the 40th year of the race – so expect more than a few celebrations at the finish line! There is a small entry fee to those who wish to undertake the challenge. Or you can watch from the side-lines and enjoy the celebrations at the end!
5. The Peebles Highland Games - Saturday 7th September 2024
The Highland Games is a tradition throughout Scotland where men and women come together to compete in traditional pursuits such as Tossing the Caber, Hurling the Haggis and Highland Dancing. The Peebles Highland Games was established in 1972 and has been growing year on year. As well as enjoying some competitive Scottish Sports, there is a variety of arts and crafts stalls as well as food and drink. A wonderful day out for the family.
Reason 6 - FINDRA shop - Every day
Ok, so we snuck in one more reason but it’s a good un’. The FINDRA Retail Hub and Café is open Monday to Saturday 9.30 to 5.00. The shop displays FINDRA’s full range in a warm and cosy space where you can stay for a while and enjoy a coffee and homemade cake. We will be planning our own events, talks, walks and workshops this summer so be sure to follow us on social media for more information.
Sunday Inspiration
Favourite Book
Between Britain - Alistair Moffat
It seemed only fitting to highlight an iconic Borders author. Alistair Moffat's most recent book is described as a "celebration of a place and the people who live there."
Podcast of the Week
Love Scotland with Jackie Bird
Okay, it seems a fairly obvious one as we try and encourage you all to Scotland, but this podcast tells a lot of the untold, and sometimes grisly sides of Scotland. The most recent episode asked Outlander actor Sam Heughan about his favourite spots.
Favourite Song
Backyard Skulls - Frightened Rabbit
Formed in Selkirk in the Borders, Frightened Rabbit are certainly one of Scotland's best loved bands, having released five studio albums and two live albums. This is one of their more catchy tunes.
