Balgone House Saturday 7th June, 2 PM for 2.30 PM
Balgone House is about 2 miles south east of North Berwick. It incorporates an early 17th century L-plan tower house. It has since been extensively remodelled, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries. In the 20th century the house became ruinous but was lovingly restored in the 1990’s by Alan and Fidelity Dean. This visit to their home is by their kind invitation.
The visit plan is for two groups of 12. One group will have a tour of the house, with the other group viewing the extensive policies – and then vice versa. This visit will end with a chat over a cup of tea.
Dunbar Harbour Saturday 5th July, 2 PM for 2.30 PM
Led by Alasdair Swan a recent long standing Trustee of Dunbar Harbour Trust. The history and developments of the harbour will be described. As sea birds will be very active at this time it is hoped that bird expert Mr Maule will be in attendance. Further, it is hoped that fishermen James and Robert Davies will be present to give a current / historical view of fishing. The appearance of the harbour seals is not guaranteed.
The event will end with refreshments and chat – details TBC.
Quite flexible on maximum numbers
Newbattle Abbey Thursday 18th September, 2 PM for 2.30 PM
A private tour of the Abbey and it’s wonderful gardens. Founded as a Cistercian Monastery in 1140 by King David 1st. It then became the Kerr family home in the 16th century and an adult residential college in 1937. The army requisitioned it during World War 2 but opened its doors to a college again in 1950. It has a fascinating history which will be described during the tour. It was her that a Council of Nobles met here in Spring 1320. They drafted a letter asking the Pope to recognise Scotland’s independence and acknowledge Robert Bruce as the lawful king. This letter became The Declaration of Arbroath !
There will also be an opportunity to explore the beautiful Italian Garden.
The cost will be approximately £10, to include tea and biscuits.
Likely numbers limit two groups of 15.
Preston Tower Saturday 18th October, 2 PM for 2.30 PM
After extensive consolidation Preston Tower is available for private tours.
Preston Tower is said to have been a property of the Homes, but is recorded as being held by the Setons in the 13th century before passing to the Liddles. It went by marriage at the end of the 14th century to the Hamiltons of Rossavon, Fingalton and Preston, who probably built the tower. Preston was torched in 1544 by the Earl of Hertford, and then in October 1650 by Cromwell’s forces, when all the family papers were burnt.
The consolidation was a £1.1 million project.
The first phase involved repairs to the doo’cot, installation of new interpretation boards, a new garden seating area around a carved stone contemplation circle, and new paths. The second phase featured specialist stonework and plaster repairs, renewal of metalwork in the tower including an external staircase to allow public access to the inside of the tower for the first time in 40 years.
Numbers limit likely to be three groups of 10.
Refreshments after TBC.
Ian Hardie
Events Manager
28 March 2025