From 3-19 September the East Lothian Archaeology and Heritage Fortnight will be taking place.
This September we are celebrating East Lothian’s rich and fascinating history, heritage and archaeology through East Lothian Archaeology and Local History Fortnight. There is something for everyone, from excavations to workshops and guided walks to online presentations. Excitingly this year, the programme has both online and in person events, so there is something for everyone, whether you are an armchair time-traveller or an outdoors archaeology sleuth!
Archaeologists from the 1722 Waggonway Project are going back to the sites of two recent discoveries, continuing with excavations of Cockenzie Salt Pans and Scotland’s earliest railway. The fortnight also starts with a commemoration of the 1650 Battle of Dunbar with the Scottish Battlefield Trust and ends with the popular Re-enactment weekend for the Battle of Prestonpans, returning after a three year hiatus!
Travel is limited these days so the Archive Service can take you on a tour around the world using various collections. This exhibition will let you visit France, China, India and more and will be available on display in the museum atrium and the John Gray Centre website.
There will be opportunities to explore the history and archaeology of many villages and towns in East Lothian through guided walks. From exploring the seven bridges of Musselburgh or Dunbar’s Old Parish Graveyard, to the remains of WWII defences surviving in Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve; and if you want to brush up on your art skills, join Fantoosh Sketching for a sketch and a wander in Tranent and Cockenzie. .
A special final mention for two other events which are happening during the Fortnight. The launch of exhibitions celebrating ‘100 years of East Lothian’ and ‘25 years of East Lothian Council.’
View the full list of both online and in person events Archaeology Fortnight 2021 - Events - John Gray Centre