Introduction
Over the course of a series of videos, we follow in the tracks of General Cope’s army in the 5 days leading up to the Battle of Prestonpans. Recorded for East Lothian Archaeology Fortnight 2025, with links to the videos posted at appropriate locations along the route.
1. The Dragoons retreat to Musselburgh
LINK LOCATION: Musselburgh Museum (EH21 7BZ) Open 10.30am-4.00pm, Thursday to Saturday
2. The Dragoons panic at Prestonpans
LINK LOCATION: Prestonpans Town Hall (EH32 9AY), outside door
3. The Dragoons pass through North Berwick
LINK LOCATION: Coastal Communities Museum (EH39 4JU), open 11am-4pm Wednesday to Saturday
4. The main army lands at Dunbar
LINK LOCATION: Dunbar Town House Museum (EH42 1ER), outside noticeboard
5. The army camps at Winterfield
LINK LOCATION: Winterfield Park, Dunbar (EH42 1AU)
6. The army crosses Linton Bridge
LINK LOCATION: Preston Mill NTS (EH40 3DS), open Thursday to Monday
7. The army heads over Pencraig Brae
LINK LOCATION: Pencraig Brae picnic stop (EH41 3SB)
8. The army camps at Haddington
LINK LOCATION: John Gray Centre (EH41 3DX) OR Kesley’s Bookshop (EH42 3JG)
9. The final stage
LINK LOCATION: Seton Collegiate Church interpretation board (EH32 0PG)