Gazing at the Bonnington Mill Waterwheel, one can almost hear the rush of the Water of Leith powering the industries of a bygone era. This reconstructed undershot waterwheel stands as a testament to Bonnington’s rich industrial heritage. The Bonnington Mill Waterwheel isn’t just a picturesque relic. It represents the heart of what was once a bustling milling village. Bonnington, situated between Edinburgh and the port of Leith, thrived on the river’s power. King David I granted the mills at Bonnington to the Abbots of Holyrood as far back as 1128. Imagine the scene centuries ago, with the original waterwheel driving machinery for milling grain, weaving cloth, tanning leather, and even manufacturing paper. The lade’s water level, controlled by a sluice gate at the nearby Redbraes weir, determined the power output of the Bonnington Mill Waterwheel. This ingenious system harnessed nature’s energy to fuel a variety of essential trades. In the 1980s, the mill buildings faced demolition despite local protests. Fortunately, the Bonnington Mill Waterwheel was saved and relocated to its current position. It stands as a proud reminder of Bonnington’s industrial past, a time when the rhythmic churning of the wheel signified life and livelihood. The wheel’s presence allows us to connect with the generations who relied on the Water of Leith for their sustenance and prosperity. The Bonnington Mill Waterwheel stands in silent testament to a village powered by the flow of water and the ingenuity of its people.
Duke Street United Reformed Church
Hidden within the bustling streets of Leith, Duke Street United Reformed Church has witnessed over 150 years of Edinburgh’s history.