The Royal Burgh of Selkirk lies on the Ettrick Water and is one of the oldest Royal Burghs in Scotland. Its population known as Souters - meaning shoe maker - is around 6,000 and ensures a friendly welcome and a strong community feel.
Selkirk's population grew up because of its woollen industry, but is now as well known for its bannocks, a dry fruit cake. It has a museum and art gallery, and associations with Mungo Park (explorer), James Hogg "The Ettrick Shepherd" a local poet and writer and Sir Walter Scott.
Accommodation
For details of hotels, B & Bs and self-catering cottages in Selkirk take a look at our accommodation page. If you're coming to the area specifically for mountain biking and are looking for mountain bike friendly establishments then take a look at our Mountain Bike Hospitality Scheme.
Events
Selkirk commemorates and celebrates her history in spectacular style at the annual Common Riding, always held on the second Friday after the first Monday in June, when the town's boundaries or 'marches' are ridden. Usually in the region of 300-400, Selkirk boasts one of the largest cavalcade of horses and riders in Europe.
Scott's Selkirk takes place in the first week of December and celebrates the esteemed writer's links with the town including that of Sheriff-Deputy of the County of Selkirk through performances, a Christmas shopping experience and fireworks.
Shopping
The town has a number of small supermarkets and chemists that can supply all ones basic needs. It has more than its fair share of high quality butchers and bakers as well as an independent book shop and a number of good eating establishments.
Town's website