Tranent

The town of Tranent lies approximately 10miles (16km) from Edinburgh. Its name derives from Iron Age times and it is one of the country’s oldest mining communities. Scotland’s first wagonway carried coal from Tranent to Cockenzie on the coast. By 1963 all the coal mines were closed and the people now work in new industries and services; many commute to Edinburgh.

In 1797 the Massacre of Tranent took place when twelve local people were killed by soldiers as they protested against conscription into the county militia. Local woman, Jackie Crookston was one of those protesting and caught up in the subsequent riots. She was one of those killed and is depicted on a commemorative memorial in the Civic Square. None of those responsible for the killings were ever brought to trial.

Tranent has a bustling High Street with a good mix of shops as well as larger supermarkets. There is also a fully equipped leisure centre.