In 'Along The Borders', Richard Collett embarks on a journey through Britain's borders, both internal and external, to uncover their historical and cultural significance. He begins with the River Tamar, which separates England from Cornwall, noting that it is one of the oldest national boundaries, established in 936 AD by Athelstan, the first king of all England. Collett also explores the geological fault line that divides Scotland's Highlands and Lowlands, which locals historically viewed as a significant separation, referring to the south as Galltachd, or 'the land of the foreigners'.

As he travels to Shetland, he finds that locals feel closer to Norway than to Edinburgh, showcasing the Norse influence in their culture. Collett emphasizes the importance of language, with Cornish, Scots Gaelic, and Welsh being actively revived. However, he also confronts the darker aspects of Britain's borders, such as the violent legacy of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, exemplified by the Kingsmill Massacre.

The book raises contemporary issues, particularly regarding the refugee crisis at the Kent coast, where Collett voices concerns about community integration amid rising ethnic tensions in places like Leicester. His engaging writing style and the questions he raises make this exploration of borders timely and thought-provoking.