Hi Declan. You are not allowed to use any weapon of war unless you have a licence. Please note also that any assault, with or without weapons, is frowned upon and may result in a police caution. NB this answer assumes you are talking about the mediaeval weapon known as a barbed hook but if not please let me know and I will transfer your question to the appropriate department.

Yes, please feel free to do so. However, I understand that there are gangs of unsavoury youths operating in the area and there has been a spate of thefts so hold on tight to any vaulable possessions (gold watches, antique coins etc)

In theory it would be 2.5 miles but that was before they brought in the border. You can queue up at the crossing but many prefer thwarting the authorities by "jumping" the frontier in the unguarded woodlands. WARNING: this is extremely dangerous. ...but thrilling!