St Mary’s Kirk
St Mary’s Kirk, built in the 14th and 15th centuries, is the largest parish church with the longest nave in Scotland. It was completed in 1462. Link to Scotland Gazetteer entry for St Mary’s Kirk
The Nungate Bridge
The Nungate Bridge, one of Scotland’s oldest bridges, dates from the 16th century, although a bridge has stood on this site since at least 1282. More about the Nungate Bridge can be read in the following link from the Scotland Gazetteer: https://www.scottish-places.info/features/featurefirst8176.html
Fourth largest town in Scotland
In the early 15th century Haddington was the fourth largest town in Scotland.
The Goat was first adopted as the burgh coat-of-arms
In 1296 the Goat was first adopted as the burgh coat-of-arms probably because the first provost, a skinner or tanner – appropriated the symbol of his guild – the goat – into the burgh seal.
Robert the Bruce gave his seal of approval to Haddington
In 1318, Robert the Bruce gave his seal of approval to Haddington by confirming its status as a Royal Burgh. The Bruce Charter is the oldest document held by East Lothian Council archives. The Bruce charter: a translation
Haddington again destroyed by fire.
Haddington again destroyed by fire.
Earl of Athol, is murdered
Patrick, sixth Earl of Athol, is murdered in a ‘palace’ at the west end of the High Street.
Town is burned by the English
Town subjected to pillage and is burned by the English under King John. Scottish royal family vacates the Palace of Haddington.
King Alexander II (1198 –1249)
King Alexander II is born in Haddington. The only son of William I, Alexander was born in the royal palace of Haddington, now the site of the County Court. He became king in 1214 and, in 1237, he concluded the Treaty of York with Henry III of England which defined the boundary of the two…
St Martin’s Kirk
St Martin’s Kirk, the oldest surviving building in the town, dating from around 1100, is reputed to be the oldest church in Scotland. The following is a link to a PDF which is hosted by Historic Environment Scotland detailing the history of St Martin’s Kirk. Download PDF St Martin’s Church, Haddington, Statement of Significance(252.38 KB)