Beyond the modern buildings, the story of Craigour unfolds. This area in Edinburgh boasts a rich past. Craigour is more than just a place on a map. It is a community with layers of history waiting to be discovered.
Craigour began as the Barony of Preston. It then became Gourtoun. Finally, it took on the name Craigmillar. The settlement dates back to the late 14th or early 15th century. It remained occupied until the early 18th century. In 1660, Sir John Gilmour acquired the Craigmillar estate.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Craigour saw a brewing boom. Seven breweries popped up taking advantage of the local aquifers. Craigmillar Brewery led the way in 1886. Andrew Drybrough’s Craigmillar Brewery followed in 1892. Other breweries included Duddingston Brewery, North British Brewery, and more. These breweries eventually closed. Drybrough’s lasted the longest, ceasing operations in 1987.
In the 1980s, Craigour faced challenges. Riots broke out amid complaints about the lack of facilities. Community action led to the creation of a library and arts center. These initiatives aimed to address social problems. The Craigmillar Festival Society played a vital role from 1962 to 2002.
Artist Jimmy Boyle created a sculpture called Gulliver, The Gentle Giant. It was built for the Craigmillar Festival Society in 1976. Most of it was demolished in 2011. A remaining portion was listed in 2023.
Today, Craigour is undergoing regeneration. There are initiatives to tackle social deprivation. A new town center is emerging on Niddrie Mains Road. The area is getting a new library, a secondary school, and shops. The Council housing in Niddrie Mains is being rebuilt with new housing. The Scottish Government’s Green Quarter Plan proposes new parks and woodland areas.
“The White House,” a former public house, is an Art Deco building. It was restored in 2011 with gallery space inside.
Craigour offers various transport options. Lothian Buses serve the area with multiple routes. A former railway station closed in 1962.
Several notable people have connections to Craigour. Helen Duncan lived in Craigour. She was the last woman imprisoned under the Witchcraft Act 1735. The former Craigmillar Primary School has a mural by John Maxwell. Robin Chapel has stained glass by Sadie Maclellan. Helen Crummy founded the Craigmillar Festival Society in 1962. Sir Ian Gilmour became Baron Gilmour of Craigmillar in 1992.
Craigour Park Primary School ran to raise money for charity. Pupils and staff ran laps around the playground. The money went to Circle, a Scottish charity. The children enjoyed “Sponge Alley” where they threw water at runners.
Craigour blends history with modern life. The area is evolving. It offers a mix of community spirit, regeneration efforts, and historical roots.