THERE will be fun for all the family at four locations, in the Borders next week to celebrate the restoration of the Union Chain Bridge, one of the earliest suspension bridges in the UK, on its 203rd anniversary.
Completed in 1820 it is the oldest vehicular suspension bridge still in use world-wide. Designed by Captain Samuel Brown, a sailor turned amateur but expert engineer, it has a span of 449 feet and is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
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After a multi-million pound refurbishment it has now re-opened to the public.
And on Wednesday July 26 there will be guided tours of the Union Chain Bridge at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm and lots of exciting activities and things to see at the various venues with a free shuttle service running between them.
At the Chain Bridge Honey Farm, visitors can enjoy live music, hands-on science and engineering (STEM) themed challenges, and delicious food, drinks and ice cream in the café.
And also explore the bee garden and the visitor centre to find out about these tiny creatures, vital to nature and to us.
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At Horncliffe Memorial Hall, The Friends of The Union Chain Bridge will tell the story of the bridge, illustrated with old pictures, documents and artefacts. There's also a Lego model of the old bridge which visitors can help to fix.
Then visitors can take a bus or walk along the footpath to Paxton House where they can join in with creative activities and traditional games inspired by the Bridge and explore the 80 acres of grounds and gardens.
They can also take a tour of the house and see a portrait of Captain Samuel Brown or visit the pop-up craft market and enjoy some tempting treats in the tearoom. (Ground pass required)
Whatever you choose to do there is fun for all the family!
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