The Main Guard is a small historic building in the centre of Berwick-upon-Tweed that operates as a museum space, where visitors can explore the history of the town and its military connections. Its modest size makes it easy to visit as part of a wider walk through Berwick’s streets and fortifications.
The Main Guard was originally built as the guardhouse for the Berwick garrison. Its position on Palace Street placed it close to the heart of the walled town. Soldiers stationed here carried out watch duties and kept order among the troops.
Berwick-upon-Tweed has a long history as a border stronghold between England and Scotland. The town’s fortifications, many of which survive today, were of significant strategic importance. The Main Guard reflects this military heritage, showing how the presence of soldiers shaped everyday life. Its preservation offers insight into Berwick’s role as a garrison town long after the medieval wars had ended. The building now forms part of Berwick’s collection of heritage sites and contributes to the town’s cultural identity.
![The Main Guard originally stood in Marygate, the main route through Berwick to and from Scotland, but was moved to this spot in 1815. The building dates from 1743 and originally housed troops responsible for providing security to the town. (Photo: Geoff Holland [CC BY-SA 2.0])](https://englandrover.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/berwick-main-guard-geograph.jpg)
What to see at the Main Guard
The Main Guard is managed by the Berwick-upon-Tweed Civic Society, which uses the space as a museum with an exhibition programme that complements the Berwick’s other attractions. Displays often focus on aspects of local history, ranging from Berwick’s defences to social life in the town. Temporary exhibitions change annually, so returning visitors may encounter new themes each season.
Inside the building, visitors can view historical artefacts, photographs and documents. These items provide a sense of Berwick’s past, both military and civilian. The space also highlights architectural features of the 18th-century guardhouse, which has been carefully maintained. Interpretation panels explain the role of the guardhouse and its place in Berwick’s history.
The exhibitions are relatively small, so exploring the Main Guard usually does not take long. However, it makes a useful introduction to the broader history of the town before exploring nearby landmarks such as the Elizabethan Walls, Berwick Barracks and the historic bridges across the River Tweed.
Visiting the Main Guard
The Main Guard is on Palace Street, close to Berwick’s town centre. It is a 15-minute walk to Berwick railway station and most other points of interest in the town centre are no more than a 7–8-minute walk away. The building is also near the town walls, making it easy to include on a walking route around Berwick’s historic sites.
The attraction usually opens seasonally during the summer months, from June until September. Admission is free, although donations are welcome.
The location in the town centre means that there are plenty of places to eat and drink nearby.
Allow around half an hour to explore the Main Guard before continuing to other sites in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
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