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Uta Varty

A Weekend at the Melrose Sevens: the Historical Scottish Borders Rugby Tournament

Held every April, the Melrose Sevens is a must for every rugby enthusiast. The annual tournament is the oldest Rugby Sevens competition and draws fans to the Scottish Borders from around the world. Local teams rub shoulders with players from as far afield as Japan and South Africa at this historic sevens event.



What date is Melrose Sevens?


The Melrose 7s will take place on Saturday, April 13, 2024, when the Men’s 1883 Centenary Cup and Women’s Tournament take place. The tournament runs between Thursday the 11th and Saturday 13th April 2024. Tickets are available here.


Book a weekend at Bowden House now to avoid disappointment!


Who won the Melrose Sevens 2023?


A little-known club, the Monaco Imps won the title last year in an exciting match against the pre-tournament favourites the Samurai. They will be returning for 2024 to defend their title. The women’s tournament saw The Lionesses lift the inaugural Mike Bleasdale Cup. Watch the 2023 documentary Melrose: A Rugby Legacy to find out more about this historical tournament.


How many people attend Melrose 7s?


More than 10,000 rugby fans attend the Melrose 7s, making it an exciting event for everyone. Food stalls offer a wide range of delicious options, from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine, with beer tents to keep you refreshed all day long.


Where is the Melrose 7s?


The Melrose Sevens are held at Melrose Rugby Club, at The Greenyards in Melrose, Scotland. Melrose plays a big part in the charm of the event. A picturesque Scottish town nestled in the stunning Scottish Borders with rolling hills playing backdrop to the tournament, its quaint streets and historic abbey make it a perfect place to stop off during the tournament.


A Glimpse into Rugby History


The Melrose Sevens is not just any rugby tournament; it's the birthplace of rugby sevens. In 1883, Ned Haig, a local butcher, and his friends decided to create a new variation of rugby to keep players and fans entertained during the off-season. What they came up with was rugby sevens, a faster-paced, more exhilarating version of the traditional game. The first-ever sevens match was played right here in Melrose, and the rest is history…


Family-Friendly Fun


The Melrose Sevens is a family-friendly event, with activities for all ages. Children can enjoy face painting, inflatable games, and mini rugby matches.



Plan Your Visit


If you're considering a visit to the Melrose Sevens, make sure to plan ahead. Tickets for this popular event can sell out fast, so book ahead. The town can get busy during the tournament weekend so book your stay at Bowden House B&B now to avoid disappointment and enjoy our hearty cooked breakfasts every morning before the excitement begins.


The Scottish Borders isn’t just about rugby: with some of the best walking, golfing, fishing and history in the UK right on your doorstop there’s plenty to explore. Find out more about what you can get up to in the Scottish Borders and plan a week of it!




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