DALBEATTIE, Dumfries & Galloway — Dalbeattie is set to host its first official Riding of the Marches this summer, marking an exciting new chapter for the town while drawing on its historic identity as a Scottish burgh.
What began as a local ride-out in 2022 has grown into something much bigger, following the rediscovery of Dalbeattie’s burgh status. With support from local volunteers and Dalbeattie Museum, organisers have been able to explore the town’s past and shape an event that reflects both its history and its community.
Riding of the Marches events have long been part of life in towns across the south of Scotland, where riders would historically travel the boundaries of their burgh on horseback. Dalbeattie became a Police Burgh in 1858, and while this is a new event for the town, it is inspired by that wider tradition and the same sense of identity and pride.
This year’s route will take riders from the harbour at Biggar’s Mill, through the centre of the town, and out into the surrounding landscape, linking together places that reflect Dalbeattie’s industrial roots, its community spaces, and the environment that helped shape it.
Chairperson Hayley West said:
“We’ve built this from the ground up, starting as a small ride-out and growing into something the town has really got behind. With the help of the museum and local volunteers, we’ve been able to understand more about our history and bring that into what we’re creating now.”
She added:
“It’s about creating something that belongs to Dalbeattie,something that brings people together and can grow year after year.”
The committee has also highlighted the support received from other Riding of the Marches events across the region, who have offered encouragement as Dalbeattie establishes its place alongside them.
As part of preparations, a series of fundraising events have been organised to support the first official year. These include a Pop-Up Shop on 27th & 28th April, a Bingo Night on 12th May, a Coffee Morning on 13th July, and a children’s event, “Connor’s Marches Mayhem,” on 25th July.
More information is available via HERE and the Dalbeattie Riding of the Marches Facebook page.
The Marches itself will take place on Sunday, 9th August 2026 at 2:00pm, departing from Biggar’s Mill, following the town’s Civic Day celebrations on Saturday.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to come along and be part of this new tradition in the making.
Safe Oot, Safe In.
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