Foodie Lass Walking with Wilson – Wilson’s Tales of the Borders: A Walking trail of Historic Tales of Berwick’s Past
An interesting walking historical trail following in the footsteps of literary legend John Mackay Wilson has been developed by members of the Wilson’s Tales Project, a charity dedicated to the restoration and rejuvenation of Wilson’s Tales of the Borders: Historical, Traditionary and Imaginative.
Who was Wilson?
John Mackay Wilson was Editor of the Berwick Advertiser from 1832-1835.
When the Berwick Advertiser was short of news, Wilson would write his own poems and short stories. They were well received and in 1834 he started publishing separate weekly editions of ‘Wilson’s Tales of the Borders, and of Scotland: Historical, Traditionary and Imaginative.’ Covering a wide range of local tales, he initially printed 2,000 copies a week but, within a year, success expanded the weekly print run to 30,000 copies.
Image from Wilson Tales Project
Sadly, Wilson died at just 31 years of age in 1835 however the Tales continued to be published for several years by his family. Subsequent editions were edited by Alexander Leighton, with many different contributors, and gradually expanded to include stories from around the world. Amazingly there were 312 editions, containing 474 tales, which were seldom out of print for the next 150 years.
Wilsons Tales were sources of entertainment when the population sat round the fire and read by candlelight – some were sombre, some were comedic but they are still remembered today in historical printed journal format.
Immerse yourself in this walking trail map which takes you on a historical journey through Berwick-upon-Tweed and feel inspired by John Mackay Wilson and his wonderful tales, visiting landmarks including the Woolmarket, The Straw Yard, Coxon’s Tower, Berwick Bridge, Tweedmouth War Memorial, Tweedmouth Parish Church, Kiln Hill, Jerningham’s Statue and The Scots Gate.
Treat yourself to either a relaxing coffee or a leisurely lunch from one of the many of the local eateries in Berwick-upon-Tweed while you walk this Historic Trail.
Pick up the user-friendly map with very relevant illustrations from the Visitor Centre in Berwick or Scan the QR code to access a digital version of the Trail.
Please allow 1.5 hrs for this walk.
Design and illustrations by Ali Edwards; www.coostie.co.uk.
For more information on the Wilson Tales Project contact www.wilsonstales.co.uk
