Berwick Upon Tweed Community Portal

Berwick is situated on the border of England and Scotland. Having changed hands, between the two countries, no less than 13 times the town is now generally regarded as being in England. Geographers will tell you that it is the only English town to be situated on the north bank of the River Tweed. True Berwickers have a different tale to tell. They will inform you that it belongs to neither and that it is its own entity. One historical anomaly that suggests this is the case is the declaration of war made at the outset of the Crimean war. Hostilities were declared, against Russia, by England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Berwick upon Tweed. The peace treaty was subsequently signed by each of these localities with the exception of Berwick. Thus for many years Berwick was still, technically, at war with Russia. Many of the traditional industries, such as boatbuilding, have now disappeared from the town. Salmon Fishing, however, is still practised by a few netsmen. Many new industries will appear, to ease the town's chronic unemployment situation, once the A1 is widened to provide a dual carriageway.
Tourists come from all over the world to visit this special town comprising of many unique and historic buildings. Some remains of KIng Edward’s Castle still stand despite most of it being demolished, by the Victorians, to make way for a railway station. The Elizabethan Walls are considered to be the best preserved in Europe. Elizabeth I spent twice as much, on these, than she spent on the whole of defence, for the whole of her reign, for the whole of her realm!

Berwick offers a large range of activities for all age groups. It is ideally placed for touring Northumberland and the Scottish Borders. For those driving from Newcastle to Edinburgh it provides the ideal place for a break, being situated midway between the two. Its large range of eating places cater for every palate.

A wide range of churches wait to welcome you. Details of these can be found in the favourites area located in the middle column.