Peeking out from under Arthur’s Seat you’ll find Duddingston. This tranquil village offers a glimpse into Edinburgh’s past. Duddingston is a conservation area with stunning period properties.
Duddingston’s history stretches back centuries. Lands were granted to Kelso Abbey between 1136 and 1147. David I of Scotland gifted the land to Tironensian monks. The estate ran from Arthur’s Seat to the Magdalene Bridge.
Originally, the area was known as Treverlen. This Celtic name predates Gaelic or Saxon tongues. Treverlen possibly meant “the farm at or on the loch.” Uviet the White was the last Celtic owner. By the 13th century, the name changed to Duddingston. It came from “Dodin’s Estate”. Dodin de Berwic, an Anglo-Norman knight, renamed it.
Duddingston Kirk is a significant landmark. It stands on land gifted to Kelso Abbey. The kirk was built on the newly gifted lands. The name Treverlen survived as the parish name into the next century.
In the 18th century, Duddingston was a weaving center. Over 40 looms produced coarse linen. It was called “Duddingston hardings.” The village was also a hub for coal and salt mining.
Bonnie Prince Charlie held a council of war here in 1745. This occurred before the Battle of Prestonpans. James Hamilton, the 8th Earl of Abercorn, purchased the Duddingston Estate. He commissioned Duddingston House in the Palladian style.
Duddingston Loch is famous. Sir Henry Raeburn painted “The Skating Minister” here. Charles Lees also created “Skaters on Duddingston Loch by Moonlight.” The loch has been used for ice-skating and curling for centuries.
Dr. James Tytler, a famous author and balloonist, lived in Duddingston. Robert Burns knew him well. Tytler built a printing press in Duddingston. He produced copies of the encyclopedia.
The Sheep Heid Inn is a must-see. It is said to be Scotland’s oldest pub dating back to 1360. King James VI supposedly gave the landlord a ram’s head snuff box in 1580.
Since 1923, Duddingston Loch has been a wildlife reserve. The Scottish Wildlife Trust manages it. You can find various wildfowl and reedbeds there.
Dr Neil’s Garden sits between Duddingston Kirk and the Loch. Andrew and Nancy Neil created this peaceful space. They transformed waste ground into beautiful terraces. It is a place of inspiration and meditation.
Duddingston offers a unique escape. It combines history, nature, and charm. Take a stroll through the village. Experience the tranquility and beauty of Duddingston.