Borders Book Festival began in June 2004, when Alistair Moffat had the idea of creating a small literary gathering in Melrose. Joined from the outset by Paula Ogilvie, that first event welcomed just a handful of speakers and an audience of around 400. Today, it has grown into one of the UK’s leading book festivals, attracting around 40,000 visitors each year for four memorable days of ideas, entertainment and conversation.

2027 dates are yet to be confirmed.