Linlithgow Marches

Linlithgow Marches
An ancient Scottish tradition which still takes places in Linlithgow and many small border towns like Kelso, Jedburgh, Peebles ,Coldstream, Duns to name just a few. In days gone by the towns folk would ride the bounderies of their town to make sure they were still intact and to collect / impose any local taxes due to them. In a odd formula the Linlithgow marches are held on the first tuesday after the second thursday in June. This tradition apparently dates back to somewhere in the early 1120`s. As a Royal Burgh Linlithgow still caries out the event more as a ceremonial event which is usually well attended by the locals and is one of the biggest events in the locality. The 12 hour day begins at 5am with a flute and drum alarm followed by a piper at 6am. Linlithgow`s " brass" band called the Reed Band splendid in their red tunics march from the West Port to the house of the Provost. Meanwhile the Deacons Court breakfast in readiness for the days events as other groups assemble for the proclamation and ringing of the bells at 11am to mark the start of the parade. The parade then heads for Linlighgow Bridge where a few drinks are enjoyed by the participants before doubling back into the town and heading to Blackness, once Linlithgows bustling sea port , where a slice of fruitcake is washed down with "Blackness Milk" ( a mixture of milk and whisky). Various hospitality events, lunch and speeches take place before returning to Linlithgow where the grand finale takes place at 5pm when the procession winds its way around the cross three times before often singing Auld Lang Syne.