Haddington was first recorded as a Royal Burgh in 1138 but there are also many Megalithic stones in the surrounding area along with the find of the largest Roman silver hoard from anywhere outside the Roman Empire. This hoard includes exquisite silver artifacts, now in the National museum of Scotland.

Haddington had a Royal Palace, was at the heart of the marriage between Mary Queen of Scots and Dauphin Francis and was the capital of the region named Haddingtonshire – renamed to East Lothian.

Click on the images below for more information on Haddington Burgh history and for more information on earlier history in the area.

Despite being burnt and ransacked, Haddington’s large number of significant 18^th century buildings affirm its reputation as one of the best-preserved towns in Scotland.

Haddington is one of only 50 towns in Great Britain to merit the prestigious Council of Archaeology Stamp of Preservation Approval.

Genealogical and family history queries

For all genealogical and family history queries, please direct the enquiry to East Lothian Library Service, Local History Centre using the email address history@eastlothian.gov.uk. 

Other available resources are listed on the Haddington History website Resources page: https://haddingtonshistory.org.uk/family-history/