Haddington and the River Tyne

Summary

Haddington was once one of the most important towns in Scotland, but it suffered from attacks by the English army and was badly damaged by floods in 1358. Today it has a population of only 9,000 but it remains the administrative capital of East Lothian. This short and easy walk combines the town's finest buildings with an attractive stroll along the banks of the River Tyne.

Grade

Bog Factor

3.5/5

Rating

Terrain

Good paths and pavements throughout.

Getting there

Start

Haddington High Street.

Public Transport

Bus to Haddington.

Start Grid Ref

NT515738

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 3.5km / 2.25 miles
Time: 1 hour
Ascent: 5m (Profile)

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Walk Description

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Stage 1

There is parking in the High Street in the centre of Haddington; look out for the Mercat cross, topped by a goat. Begin the walk by heading east along the street, noting the turrets on the George Hotel on the left. At the main road junction turn right then immediately left into Church Street, which is partly cobbled.

Stage 2

Follow this fine street of houses to pass an art gallery and a stone cylindrical tower. On the left is Nungate Bridge which dates back to the twelfth century. The bridge enjoys a beautiful setting with attractive cottages reflected in the waters of the River Tyne; it can be hard to imagine that this was once the scene of the town's executions - note the hanging hook. Do not cross the bridge but instead follow the path upstream to the right.

Stage 3

To the right is St Mary's Collegiate Church which dates back to 1375 and has the proportions of a small Cathedral; it was partially destroyed during the 1548-49 Siege of Haddington, only being fully repaired in the 1970s. The path continues by the riverside, crossing a metal walkway at one point, before emerging on the B6368. Go straight across this to continue on the path opposite, noting Poldrate's Mill with its waterwheel on the right.

Stage 4

Continue along the riverside path, fringed by fine trees. Eventually a box girder footbridge is reached; do not cross this but continue upstream to a signed junction of paths overlooking a weir. Turn left here to remain alongside the River Tyne. Eventually the route upstream is barred by a metal fence; at this point bear right away from the river, emerging on a road in a housing estate.

Stage 5

Go straight across the road and take the path opposite. This bends right and passes between houses to reach a cul-de-sac. Bear right here and follow the path, heading straight across when another road is reached. At another road again take the path opposite to reach the playing fields behind the school. Follow the path around these to the left and then turning right to continue between the playing fields and the school buildings. When a road is reached follow this to the left, then turn right at the main road.

Stage 6

Follow the road back into the centre of Haddington. Note the beautiful Knox Court on the right - complete with statue of John Knox, this is now sheltered housing for the elderly. Continue to reach a crossroads with a statue high on the pillar, commemorating a local laird. Turn right at the cross roads to return to the High Street. At this end the street has wide, spacious pavements and some very grand buildings. Note especially the bank buildings and the post office on the left side, and also the Sheriff Court and Corn Exchange on the right. Continue past the council buildings to return to the start and the Mercat Cross.

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