Tranent connects the memory of the 1797 massacre with evidence of older church history and the industrial history of the Tranent–Cockenzie Waggonway. There is also a circular route whose approximate duration and distance can be factored into your day’s plans. This lets you distinguish between local history, exercise and various leisure activities.
Local History and Remembrance
The Tranent Massacre took place in 1797 during protests against conscription into the county militia. Soldiers killed twelve local people. A statue of Jackie Crookston in Civic Square commemorates the event. The date, circumstances and memorial statue give this part of local history a clear historical context.
Tranent Parish Church and its graveyard also connect several eras. The church was built on the foundations of a predecessor dating from the 15th century. The graveyard contains monuments from the 15th and 16th centuries, while also retaining some of its 18th-century character. The graveyard was also the site of the Jacobite encampment, which government troops shelled on the night before the Battle of Prestonpans. This brings together architectural history and a specific connection to the battle.
On Foot and by Bike
The Tranent Walk is a 7 km circular route for walking and wheeling. It takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. The route passes through residential areas, fields and parks over varied terrain. The time is a useful guide for planning your day; path conditions can change, so it’s worth checking the route status before setting off.
The route of the 1722 Tranent–Cockenzie Waggonway can also be explored on foot or by bike. The two options differ in character: the Tranent Walk focuses on its circular route, distance and approximate duration, while the Waggonway can be explored on foot or by bike to connect with local industrial history. Here, too, path conditions can change.
The Heugh is a ravine that may have given Tranent its name as far back as the Iron Age. The story of the Battle of Prestonpans can be read at the old Pit Bing in Tranent; the information on site may change. These two places offer different perspectives: The Heugh connects the landscape with a possible origin of the name, while the Pit Bing connects the battle with its interpretation on site.
Waggonway and Leisure Activities
In the area around Tranent, the 1722 Waggonway Project interprets, preserves and improves the Tranent–Cockenzie Waggonway, along with its associated industries and surroundings. Also in the area, the Waggonway Heritage Centre and Museum presents the history of the Waggonway and the coal and salt industries it served. The museum focuses on the railway and industries, while the project also encompasses their associated surroundings. Opening arrangements can change, so it’s a good idea to check before visiting.
Other leisure options include the Garden of Reflection in Polson Park, with a play area and tennis courts; the Loch Centre, a multi-sport leisure centre; and Wiggles, a soft-play centre for younger children. Alongside historical topics, there are options for sports, play and younger children. If any of these are important to your plans, check in advance what will be available when you visit: availability, facilities and operating arrangements can change.
Discover more destinations: Prestonpans, Aberlady, East Linton, Haddington, Gifford, Cockenzie And Port Seton, North Berwick, Musselburgh
Return to the main travel overview: East Lothian.
