Annual festival books Abbotsford for November​​​​​​​

Also, in the hope of being able to allow book-lovers to enjoy the festival in person, rather than online, it is being moved to take place from November 2-7.

More than 40 events, a blend of live and digital, from a splendid cast of authors, stars of stage and screen, sporting heroes and political pundits will assemble over six days in the warmth of the Walter Scott Marquee, with additional outdoor events taking place in the spectacular grounds.

The house and café will remain open for visitors attending the Book Festival to be able to enjoy too.

Alistair Moffat, festival director said: “Sometimes necessity can be turned into a virtue.

" With all the variables attached to the Covid-19 pandemic and the necessary restrictions, it seemed prudent to push back the dates of the Baillie Gifford Borders Book Festival to Novem ber.

“But that allowed us to move the festival to Abbotsford for 2021 and help celebrate the 250th anniversary of Walter Scott's birth.

“ Over the fireworks weekend we will have a cracker of a festival and with luck, audiences will be welcomed into the glow of celebrations with excellent authors at the home of the one of the greatest.”

Giles Ingram, Abbotsford CEO said: “I n this, the 250th anniversary year of Sir Walter Scott’s birth, we are delighted to welcome the Baillie Gifford Borders Book Festival to Abbotsford. First and foremost an author’s house, Abbotsford is also a stage set for Scott’s imagination and love of drama. Festival goers will find no better backdrop as they enjoy one of Scotland’s m ost prestigious lit erary events.

"During the Festival the House will remain open to visitors wishing to absorb its unique atmosphere and explore Scott’s story, as will the café, gift shop and riverside walks.”

The book festival will then return to Harmony Garden in Melrose in June 2022.

Organisers say they welcome the continued support of title sponsor Baillie Gifford, as well as its other sponsors, including Saltire Roofing & Building Ltd, Brett Investment and Bell Financial Planning.