Kirknewton

What secrets do those ancient stones hold? Right before your eyes lies Kirknewton, a village seemingly untouched by time. But beneath its quaint facade lies a tapestry woven from centuries of history. Kirknewton, nestled on the edge of the Pentland Hills, dates back to the Iron Age. The remnants of forts on Kaimes Hill and Dalmahoy Hill stand testament to an era shrouded in mystery. As centuries passed, Kirknewton witnessed the rise and fall of industries. The village found itself at the heart of the oil shale boom in the 1860s. The nearby mines provided fuel for the insatiable appetite of a rapidly industrialising world. Today, the legacy of this bygone era is etched into the landscape. During World War II, the skies above Kirknewton roared with a different kind of industry. RAF Kirknewton, established a mile south-east, became a vital cog in the Allied war machine. After the war, the airfield transitioned into a base for the United States Air Force. Today, it echoes with the peaceful hum of gliders. Kirknewton, despite its proximity to Edinburgh and Livingston, retains a unique sense of tranquility. Take a stroll down its Main Street, and you’ll be transported back in time. The quaint buildings whisper tales of a bygone era. The heart of Kirknewton is undoubtedly its kirk. The present parish church, dating back to 1751, stands as a testament to the village’s enduring faith. Its Gothic architecture, a result of an 1872 remodel, adds a touch of grandeur. Adjacent to the church lies the kirkyard. It provides a serene resting place for generations past. Among the weathered headstones lies a unique memorial. The Royal Society of Physicians constructed an enclosure to honor William Cullen, a founding member. Cullen, a prominent figure in 18th-century medicine, agriculture, and chemistry, chose a nearby farm to apply his scientific knowledge. Kirknewton, a small village with a big history, invites you to uncover its secrets.