Lilliard's Stone and Lilliot Cross

Around 800 years ago, the monks of Melrose Abbey erected a stone at this spot, beside the Dere Street Roman road. By 1372 the stone was known as Lylliot Cross and members of the Scottish and English crowns met here to resolve disputes. Unfortunately, the meetings were unsuccessful and the Battle of Ancrum Moor took place in 1545 resulting in victory for the Scottish Army against a much larger English force.

According to legend, the fair maiden Lilliard followed her lover to this battle and when he was killed, took up his sword and set about slaying the English until she died of her own wounds. There is no evidence of this event, though.

Some say Maid Lilliard fought at Lilliard’s Edge during the Battle of Ancrum Moor to avenge her slain lover, while others believe she sought revenge for her lost family.According to legend, she either killed the ruthless English leaders Sir Ralph Evers and Sir Brian Laiton or rallied the outnumbered Scots to victory. After the battle, searchers found her body near the fallen English leaders. Though badly injured, she was recognized by her golden hair and white plume. Whether she truly struck down Laiton remains unknown, but she was given an individual burial, and a memorial was later erected in her honor.