02/22/2003 Entry: "Berwick Celebrates Anniversary of England-Scotland Union"

Berwick Celebrates Anniversary of England-Scotland Union
The 400th anniversary of the union of the crowns of England and Scotland will be celebrated this year with a series of events in and around the historic walled border town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. When Elizabeth I died in 1603, the English crown passed to her nearest relative, James VI of Scotland, which led to the end of three centuries of border warfare in which Berwick changed hands several times.

Highlights of Union of the Crowns 400 include the East Marches Family Tryst (Apr 3-8) when people with family roots in Northumberland and the Scottish Borders can meet, explore the land and history of their ancestors, attend living history events and tour the area. On April 6, there is a re-enactment of the visit of King James in 1603, on his way to London. The monarch will lead a cavalcade of riders to the town gates, with musketeers and pikemen manning the walls.

Family entertainment and 17th century sporting contests combine at King James's Sports (May 1 0-11), and the stories of soldiers and civilians will be brought to life on July 19-20, a weekend of medieval tournaments and battle re-enactments focussed on the 1333 Great Siege of Berwick. An innovative performance of "Hamlet" (first performed in 1603) takes place on August 16; and the story of Norham Castle will be told in sound and light on Sept. 26, 27 and 28.

Website: www.union-of-the-crowns.co.uk