Across the Tyne Water stands Pencaitland a village steeped in history. Its origins stretch back to the 12th century when the parish church was built. Pencaitland became a burgh of barony in 1505 gaining special rights. This included holding twice-yearly fairs and a yearly market from 1695.
The Tyne Water splits Pencaitland into Easter and Wester Pencaitland. A three-arched bridge dating back to the 16th century connects them. This bridge still carries modern traffic albeit one direction at a time. Imagine the carts and horses that once crossed it.
Pencaitland’s history isn’t just about markets and fairs. Nearby Winton Castle boasts a rich past. Phillip de Sayton received the land in 1150. His grandson married King Robert the Bruce’s sister. Henry VIII burned Winton in 1544 during the Rough Wooing. Mary Queen of Scots’ Lady-in-waiting Mary Seton was from Winton.
The Jacobite risings also touched Pencaitland. The Earl of Winton supported the Jacobites in 1715 and 1745. Bonnie Prince Charlie’s army even camped on the Winton estate. The Hamilton Nisbets bought Winton in 1779 filling it with treasures from across Europe and the Turkish Empire. Today Winton is a private home but also a sought-after venue.
Music lovers will be thrilled to know that Pencaitland has a connection to popular music. Castlesound Studios in a former Victorian primary school hosted recording sessions. Orange Juice Simple Minds Runrig and REM all recorded there.
Glenkinchie Distillery sits just outside Pencaitland. This lowland home of Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky dates back to 1837. The fertile farmland and pure water from the Lammermuir Hills make it the perfect spot.
Pencaitland is more than just a picturesque village. It’s a place where history music and whisky come together. It’s a place that continues to thrive. It blends its rich past with its modern life. It’s a place you’ll never forget.