Hawick

Although the largest town in the Borders, Hawick's population of just over 15,000 ensures that it retains an intimacy that will have an instant appeal for the shopper, casual visitor or tourist, who will find a warm welcome from locals. Set in the gentle Teviotdale valley, with the town centre lying at the junction of the Teviot and Slitrig Water, the town has long been at the centre of Borders and Scottish history, being situated in the turbulent Middle March which figured so prominently in the days of cross-border warfare.
Industrially, Hawick is the traditional home of the world's finest knitware, especially cashmere.
There are numerous mill shops selling top quality garments at factory prices, as well as a variety of small specialist shops and five supermarkets to choose from.
The Horse monument in Central Square commemorates the defeat of the English raiders in 1514, while at the other end of the High Street the town's showpiece, Drumlanrig's Tower, dating from the 13th century, has been restored as a heritage centre which hosts the Tourist Information Centre.
A "Welcome Host" team resplendant in local tartan are on hand in the main haugh car park to attend to visitor's needs in guiding them where to shop, eat or find accomodation.
A frequent winner of "Scotland in Bloom" the 107 acre Wilton Lodge Park is recognised as one of the most beautiful park's in the south of Scotland and is a popular spot for relaxation. Among the Park's facilities are putting and bowling with a cafe operating in the summer months. The mansion house museum, flanked by a waterfall, houses many interesting relics of Border folklore and the Walled Gardens nearby are renowned for their floral splendour.
Teiotdale Leisure Centre, open seven days, includes free-form swimming pool with toddler's section, squash courts, fitness room, Turkish steam room, solarium, indoor bowling hall and licensed cafeteria.
A Summer Festival is held for two weeks in August and a Jazz Festival Weekend in September.