Free Entry to Bowhill Grounds This Weekend as Estate Celebrates Two Special Events

Visitors can enjoy free entry to the grounds of Bowhill, Selkirk, this Saturday and Sunday, 6–7 June, as the Estate marks two special occasions: the historic Selkirk Silver Arrow Competition on Saturday and participation in the national Open Farm Sunday initiative on Sunday. Please note that Open Farm Sunday is now fully booked.

On Saturday, Bowhill will host the Selkirk Silver Arrow, one of the Scottish Borders’ most historic and prestigious archery competitions, with origins dating back to 1660. The annual clout archery contest is traditionally organised by the Ettrick Forest Archers and remains a fiercely contested event. The Duke of Buccleuch holds the hereditary role of Captain-General of the Royal Company of Archers.

Visitors will be able to watch the ceremonial procession along the Lochs Road to the Vista at approximately 1pm, with competitors returning to Bowhill House around 5pm. Throughout the day, spectators can also view the competition from the upper end of South Bowhill Field by following the Silver Arrow signage.

While visiting Bowhill, guests can enjoy the popular adventure playground, waymarked walks, small soft play area and the Old Kitchen Café.

On Sunday, Bowhill will take part in Open Farm Sunday, a nationwide initiative that invites the public to go behind the farm gate and learn more about farming, food production and the countryside. Demand for the event has been exceptional, and all places have now been booked.

The day will offer visitors a unique opportunity to meet the people who work the land, tour the Estate’s agricultural areas and discover more about sustainable farming at Bowhill. Tractor-trailer tours, led by members of the farming team, will take visitors through the Estate’s working farm areas, passing cattle-filled fields, the Estate’s energy plant and farm steadings, while providing insights into how farming helps support and power the wider Estate.

Families will also be able to explore the grounds through a self-guided sheep trail along the Bell o’ the Woods Walk, using activity booklets to spot lettered sheep hidden around the route.

Visitors will also be able to purchase Scotch Beef from Buccleuch’s Queensberry Estate and Borders Venison from the BBQ in the courtyard, with local ice cream and candy floss available too. The gift shop will also be stocked with farm-themed gifts, local produce and Bowhill souvenirs in the shop.

Sion Williams, Farms Manager at Bowhill, said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome visitors and give them the opportunity to learn more about the farming operation at Bowhill. We’re delighted by the response to Open Farm Sunday and that the event is already fully booked.”

For more information about this weekend’s events and to book for Saturday, visit www.bowhillhouse.co.uk/events.