The Origins of Riding the Common.
In 1759 the three owners of the Ten Merk Lands of Langholm were parties in an action in the Court of Session in Edinburgh for the delimitation of certain areas of ground in and around the town. The boundaries were duly defined, but in the award, it had certain legal rights and privileges, and that part of the Ten Merk Lands, particularly the Common Moss and the Kilngreen, had belonged inalienably to the community.
It became an obligation of the Burgesses that the boundaries of the communal possessions should be clearly defined, and accordingly, beacons and cairns were erected and pits were dug to indicate where the communal lands began and ended, and a man was appointed to go out each year to repair the boundary marks and to report any encroachments.
The first man to perform this duty was "Bauldy" (Archibald) Beattie, the town drummer, who walked the Marches and proclaimed the Fair at Langholm Mercat Cross for upwards of half a century. According to the records, it was in the year 1816 that the Riding of the Common began. The first person to ride on horseback over the Marches was Archie Thompson, landlord of the Commercial Inn. In the previous year, Thomson, like "Bauldy" his predecessor, went over the boundaries on foot alone; but on the present occasion, he was accompanied by other townsmen - John Irving of Langholm Mill, and Frank Beattie, the landlord of the Crown Inn, being probably the most prominent. These local enthusiasts, sometimes referred to as the "Fathers of the Common Riding" were responsible for introducing horse-racing, which took place the same year on Kilngreen, Langholm's ancient common. Horse racing was continued here until 1834, when the races and sports were transferred to the Castleholm.
With the introduction of horsemen, there followed in 1817 the selection of a leader, or Cornet, who should act as Master of Ceremonies during the proceedings and activities of Common Riding Day.
In 1919, it was decided that the Common Riding be always held on the last Friday in July
To Cornet Hope! 🐎🌾
A massive and heartfelt congratulations on your election as the 2026 Langholm Cornet!
Carrying the Burgh Standard and leading the grand traditions of the Common Riding is the ultimate honour for any local young man. You are walking in the legendary footsteps of those who have gone before, dating all the way back to 1817, and we know you will lead the cavalry with immense pride, dignity, and passion.
The town is fully behind you, the excitement is building, and we cannot wait to see you lead the Muckle Toon onto the hill this July.
Here’s to a safe, memorable, and absolutely unforgettable Common Riding. You will do us all incredibly proud!
An’ Muckle Toon Ayn!
Contact
Address
Crown Hotel,
High Street,
Langholm,
Dumfries & Galloway,
Scotland UK,
DG13 0JH
Phone
+44 13873 81138
