Welcome return of the Borders Book Festival

We are delighted that the Borders Book Festival is returning for 2021 in a new month. The month is November, and the book festival will take place for a wonderful six days from the 2nd to the 7th. The venue has also changed to the iconic Abbotsford House, tying in with the 250th anniversary celebrations of the birth of Sir Walter Scott.

All the old favourite aspects of the festival return including the Family Book Festival which will take place on the 6th and 7th November, with Fiona Boyd sharing her inspiration for her book Sir Walter Scott and the Magical Well featuring Lucy and Clementine, the Dandie Dinmont terriers who travel back through time when they are pushed down a well by a mischievous elf. There’s lots for the younger audience with the author of Sir Charlie Stinky Socks making a welcome return. There’s plenty for the adults too with some of our highlights being Ed Balls talking in a cooking capacity, but who knows he may dance too on the Tuesday night. Wednesday explores the history of rugby and what should be a fascinating conversation with footballer Pat Nevin, as well as an old favourite Ian Rankin who is known to enjoy a pint at Burts from time to time. Thursday’s highlights include Everything You Need to Know About Whisky (but are too afraid to ask) by Nick Morgan (we will have both bars fully stocked afterwards) followed by the legend that is Michael Palin. Friday’s offerings including Countryfile’s Tom Heep talking about 39 ways to Save the Planet and Rory Bremner who has plenty material to use since he last entertained back in 2019. Spoilt for choice on the Saturday with the Sir Walter Scott prize winner Hilary Mantel, Robert Preston presenting his first fiction book and Tartan Noir at its very best with Val McDermid. The festival finishes on the Sunday with the winner of the 2020 Great British Bake Off – Peter Sawkins, and James Naughtie rounding it all off with his wit and political observations.

For more information on the 2021 Borders Book Festival see the website.

Burts and the Townhouse will be open for meals, though booking for Lunch and Supper is absolutely essential. We are still operating table service only, and tables in Bar and Restaurants are still well spaced out, there is no standing at the bar. We have limited availability for accommodation over the Borders Book Festival period, but happy to help you if we can. We look forward to welcoming you, be it over the Borders Book Festival period, or any other time.