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Did you bring your passport? Just kidding, you don’t need one to cross this border! This is the last stretch on Scottish territory. Up next: England.
You’re near Gretna Green, where lovers run to wed. For 265 years Gretna Green has welcomed couples looking to marry. Initially, that was due to differences between Scots and English Law but, although that has changed, stories of love, romance, and instances of scandal, have continued to be associated with Gretna Green. If you’re not looking to elope, then you can visit the Famous Blacksmiths Shop which also features a fascinating historical marriage museum. With the romantic stories and love letters of centuries gone by.
The Scottish Borders has some fabulous Roman remains which date back to their failed attempt to conquer Scotland.
River Sark is ahead, the river has been made famous, partially by Robert Burns’ poem, Such a Parcel of Rogues in a Nation. Once you’ve crossed it you’ll be in England. There are some interesting landmarks you should keep in mind on this next stretch:
You’ll cross River Eden, one of the few large rivers in England that flows northwards.
Before passing though Plumpton you’ll spot Old Penrith, Voreda, Old Roman Fort, remains of a Roman Fort called Voreda, in use from the time of Hadrian’s wall until the 4th century, it is easily visible from the road. Excavations around the area uncovered an extensive Vicus, or civil settlement that would have built up around the fort, uncovering finds such as inscribed stones, querns, coins, pottery and extensive evidence of occupation.
King Arthur’s Round Table, a Neolithic earthwork henge, dating from about 2000 BC, but much later believed to be King Arthur’s jousting arena.
The beautiful Lake District National Park, home to Britain’s Highest War Memorial.
If you hear a voice in your head that says that you can’t do this anymore, ignore it! You’ve got this! You’ll be soon on the halfway mark!
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