Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks is a well-preserved fortress and guardhouse that was built to protect the town from the Jacobite risings.
Built in the 18th century, the Barracks served as a strategic base for troops during conflicts and it features impressive architecture and defensive structures.
Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks offers a unique glimpse into the region’s military past and invites visitors to step back in time to discover England’s border heritage.
![The Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks and Main Guard was built in the 18th century to protect Berwick-upon-Tweed from the Jacobite risings. (Photo: Richard Webb [CC BY-SA 2.0])](https://englandrover.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/berwick-tweed-main-guard-geograph.jpg)
What to see at Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks
The Barracks, built in the early 18th century, present a well-preserved example of military architecture, reflecting the strategic significance of Berwick-upon-Tweed as a border town.
As visitors step inside the Barracks, they are greeted by imposing guardrooms and barrack rooms, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of soldiers stationed here. The fascinating exhibitions shed light on the soldiers’ experiences and the historical conflicts that shaped the region. The Guardroom Museum showcases a rich collection of artefacts, uniforms and weapons, giving a comprehensive insight into the life of a soldier during different periods of history.
The ramparts of the Barracks offer a vantage point to admire panoramic views of Berwick-upon-Tweed, the River Tweed and the surrounding landscape. The ramparts also have defensive features, including the gun battery, that bear witness to the town’s strategic importance during times of conflict.
Throughout the year, Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks hosts events and activities, including historical reenactments to family-friendly events.
Visiting Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks
Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks is only a few minutes’ walk east of the town centre.
Opening hours vary during the year, although it is usually open on weekends with additional open days during the summer season.
It is operated by English Heritage and English Heritage members (and holders of the English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass), are entitled to free entry.
Free entry to Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks with the English Heritage Overseas Visitors Pass
The English Heritage Overseas Visitors Pass gives you free entry to Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks and over 100 other historic buildings and monuments in England.
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One review
Anne Humphrey
The Main Guard
The Main Guard is not next to the Barracks. It is down by the river on Palace Street. The Main Guard is run by Berwick Civic Society and is open till 30th September 2025, Friday to Tuesday 12pm to 4pm. This year's exhibition is HMS Berwick. We also have the history of Berwick and items from the KOSB museum. Many thanks Anne Humphrey Chair Berwick Civic Society
25 August 2025