Hawick Common Riding

In the weeks leading up to the actual Common-Riding the Cornet and his supporters are out on their ride-outs. These take place on each Saturday and Tuesday. During the course of these ride-outs they visit many surrounding villages and farms.

The main ride-out however takes place usually two weeks before the Common-Riding weekend. It consists of a twenty-four mile ride to Mosspaul and back. Riders who successfully complete this difficult ride may be eligible to become members of the “Ancient Order of Mosstroopers”.

The Tuesday afternoon ride-outs were originally intended for shop workers, as early closing on Tuesdays gave them the chance to take part. The Saturday ride-outs give those who can't manage on Tuesdays, such as school children, the chance to see or join the Cornet and his followers.

Mosspaul Rideout 2000

These ride-outs are not part of the official Common-Riding festival. However, they are enthusiastically supported by young and old riders. The ride-outs give neighbouring communities the chance to welcome and congratulate the newly-elected Cornet as well as providing good exercise for the horses for the important riding of the marches to come.