Located a mere ten miles from the England border is the former royal burgh of Jedburgh Scottish Borders. The area of Jedburgh has been settled since the 9th century. At that time a church had been founded by Bishop Ecgred of Lindisfarne. By the early 1100's the town's church was turned into a priory with an abbey added just a few short years later. The same century saw the rise of the Jedburgh Castle, by King David, and the death of King Malcolm IV. Jedburgh continued to be eyed by the monarch and was the site of the intense negotiations between Alexander III and Henry III over who would get the Scottish throne. Nearly 30 years later it was the site of Alexander III's wedding. Thanks to the rich history there is a lot for visitors to enjoy.
Probably one of the first places most visitors head is the Jedburgh Abbey. When it was built in the twelfth century by King David I, the abbey was a simply priory. It was raised to the status of Abbey in 1154. Unfortunately because Jedburgh is so close to the English border it was involved in many of the border wars that took place. As a result the Abbey had been badly damaged over the course of the years. Wrecked and plundered throughout the skirmishes the only thing that remains today is a grand ruin. Ruin or not, it has been the source of much interest. In 1984 the Historical Society took the site over and after conducting an archeological dig on the site they have opened it to the public. There is a charge to enter the grounds but you can wander to your heart's content enjoying the beauty of the ruins and taking in the history of the site.
Another popular stop for tourists is the Jedburgh Castle Gaol. This castle was built to defend the town from southern attacks. While it did its duty to help protect the city it was also the place where the second marriage of King Alexander III took place. Visitors can roam the grounds and enjoy checking out the castle prison as well as a variety of interesting architectural sites. It is a definite stop for any tourist. As many Scottish historians will tell you, the castle was an important site during the boarder wars for he who controlled the castle, controlled Scotland.
For those who are interested in the monarchy, then be sure to visit "Queen Mary's House." Since Queen Mary was Scottish it is not surprising that she would want to stay in this once powerful town. Queen Mary rented accommodations from the Lady Ferniehirst during her stay in Jedburgh in 1566. This home is believed to have been the home she rented. Although, there are some dissenters considering when she would have been here and the condition of the town during that time, but it is at least representative of the home she rented at the time.
Jedburgh is full if history and beauty for any visitor.
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