St Mary’s Pleasance is a historic park located in the heart of Haddington, East Lothian. The park is known for its beautiful gardens, peaceful atmosphere and impressive architecture. The park has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike for many years.
The park covers an area of approximately 7 acres and features a variety of different gardens, including a rose garden, herbaceous borders and a Japanese garden. The park is also home to a number of historic buildings, including St Mary’s Church and the old town jail. Visitors can explore these buildings and learn about the history of the area.
St Mary’s Pleasance is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of East Lothian. The park is open to the public year-round and offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a quiet stroll through the gardens or a fun day out with the family, St Mary’s Pleasance has something for everyone.
History of St Mary’s Pleasance
St Mary’s Pleasance is a historic garden located in the East Lothian region of Scotland. The garden dates back to the 17th century and has a rich history that is worth exploring.
The garden was originally created by Sir George Taylor, who was a prominent figure in the area during the 17th century. It was designed to be a place of relaxation and enjoyment for the people of the town. Over the years, St Mary’s Pleasance has undergone several changes and restorations to maintain its beauty and charm.
The garden is situated near St Mary’s Church, which is another important landmark in the area. The church was built in the 12th century and has played an important role in the religious and cultural life of the community.
St Mary’s Pleasance was designed as a formal garden with a central avenue and several smaller paths leading to different areas of the garden. The garden was known for its beautiful flowers, fountains, and statues. Visitors could also enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the garden.
In recent years, St Mary’s Pleasance has undergone a major restoration to bring it back to its former glory. The garden is now open to the public and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can explore the different areas of the garden, take a stroll along the central avenue, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this historic landmark.
Garden Features
Heritage Walled Garden
St. Mary’s Pleasance boasts a stunning Heritage Walled Garden that dates back to the 18th century. The garden is a testament to the rich history of the estate and is a must-see for visitors. The garden is home to a variety of plants, including roses, mulberry trees, and box hedge mounds. It is a beautiful space to relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the area.
Community Orchard
The Community Orchard is a delightful addition to the garden. The orchard is home to a variety of apple trees, and the Apple House is a fantastic place to learn about the history of apple cultivation in the area. Visitors can enjoy the fruits of the orchard during apple season, which is usually in the autumn.
Sunken Garden
The Sunken Garden is a hidden gem within St. Mary’s Pleasance. The garden is a tranquil space with a pond and scattered flowers. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The garden is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Laburnum Walk
The Laburnum Walk is a beautiful feature of the garden. The walkway is lined with stunning laburnum trees, which bloom in the spring, creating a stunning display of yellow flowers. The walkway is a must-see for visitors to St. Mary’s Pleasance.
Cottage Garden
The Cottage Garden is a charming feature of the garden. The garden is home to a variety of flowers and plants, including wisteria and roses. The garden is a beautiful space to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The garden is surrounded by a traditional stone wall, adding to its charm.
Scented Herb Garden
The Scented Herb Garden is a must-see for visitors to St. Mary’s Pleasance. The garden is home to a variety of herbs, including lavender, rosemary, and thyme. The garden is a sensory delight, with the fragrant scents of the herbs filling the air. The garden is a beautiful space to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Location and Accessibility
St Mary’s Pleasance is located in the town of Haddington in East Lothian. The address of the venue is EH41 4BU. The location is easily accessible by car, bus, and train.
Car Park
The venue has a car park that can accommodate up to 50 cars. The car park is located at the rear of the building and can be accessed via a sidegate. Parking is free of charge for visitors to the venue.
Sidegate
The sidegate provides direct access to the car park and is located on the right-hand side of the building. The gate is wide enough to accommodate wheelchair users and pushchairs.
Events and Activities
St Mary’s Pleasance in East Lothian offers a wide range of events and activities throughout the year, catering to visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the highlights:
Picnics
The Pleasance is a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic with family and friends. With its lush greenery and stunning views, visitors can enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature. The park provides picnic tables and benches, making it easy to settle in and enjoy a meal.
Guided Walks
St Mary’s Pleasance offers guided walks, allowing visitors to explore the park’s history and natural features. Led by knowledgeable guides, these walks provide an informative and enjoyable experience for all ages. Visitors can learn about the park’s past, including its use as a burial ground, and discover the diverse wildlife that calls the Pleasance home.
Events
Throughout the year, St Mary’s Pleasance hosts a variety of events, including concerts, theatre performances, and outdoor cinema screenings. These events provide a unique opportunity to enjoy the park’s beautiful surroundings while being entertained by talented performers. Check the park’s website for upcoming events.
Christmas
During the festive season, St Mary’s Pleasance is transformed into a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy Christmas lights, carol singing, and festive treats. The park’s Christmas market offers a range of gifts, crafts, and food, making it the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.
Overall, St Mary’s Pleasance offers a diverse range of events and activities throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting East Lothian.
Visitor Experience
Tripadvisor Reviews
St Mary’s Pleasance in East Lothian has received generally positive reviews on Tripadvisor, with visitors praising the beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere. Many visitors also enjoyed the historical significance of the site and the opportunity to learn about the area’s past.
However, some reviewers noted that the site can be difficult to navigate, particularly for those with mobility issues. Others mentioned that the lack of on-site facilities, such as restrooms and refreshments, can be inconvenient.
General Tips
Visitors to St Mary’s Pleasance are advised to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as much of the site is outdoors. It is also recommended to bring water and snacks, as there are no on-site facilities.
Those with mobility issues may find some areas of the site challenging to navigate, and should plan accordingly. Additionally, visitors should be aware that there is limited parking available on-site, and may need to park in nearby residential areas.
St Mary’s Pleasance is committed to maintaining trust and safety standards for all visitors. The site has implemented a range of measures to ensure transparency and safety, including regular cleaning and sanitisation of high-touch surfaces.
St Mary’s Pleasance and the Community
St Mary’s Pleasance is a beautiful park located in the heart of Haddington, East Lothian. This park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and recreation.
The park is surrounded by historical landmarks such as Haddington House and the picturesque Mount. St Mary’s Pleasance is named after St Mary’s Church, which is located nearby. The park is maintained by the Scottish charity, The Haddington and District Community Development Trust.
The community plays a vital role in maintaining the park’s cleanliness and beauty. The park is regularly cleaned and maintained by volunteers who donate their time and effort to keep the park in top condition. The community orchard in St Mary’s Pleasance is a great example of the community’s involvement in the park’s maintenance. The orchard is maintained by volunteers who plant and harvest the fruit trees.
The park’s setting is perfect for outdoor activities such as picnics, sports, and leisurely walks. The park is also home to several events throughout the year, including the Haddington Farmers’ Market and the Kew the Music festival.
The Scottish charity, The Haddington and District Community Development Trust, is responsible for the park’s management and development. The trust relies on donations from the community to fund the park’s maintenance and improvement projects.
Flora and Fauna
St. Mary’s Pleasance in East Lothian is a delightful location that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of nature. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna that are sure to delight nature enthusiasts.
The park is home to several apple trees that bloom in the spring, providing a sweet scent that fills the air. The scent of the apple blossoms is particularly strong in the area near the benches, making it a great spot to relax and take in the beauty of the park.
In addition to the apple trees, the park is also home to a variety of flowers and plants. The roses in the park are particularly beautiful, and their vibrant colours are sure to catch the eye of any visitor. The park also features a box hedge mound and a green mount, which are both great spots for sightseeing.
For those who enjoy exploring wilderness areas, the park has a designated wilderness area that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The pleached avenue is another great spot for a walk, and the box viewpoint offers stunning views of the park.
The park is also home to several mulberry trees and wisteria, which add to the beauty of the park. Visitors can take a seat on one of the benches and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while taking in the natural beauty of the park.
Rules and Regulations
St Mary’s Pleasance is a beautiful park in East Lothian that is open to the public. However, visitors are expected to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment. Here are some of the key rules to keep in mind:
- Dogs: Dogs are welcome in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their pets and disposing of waste in the designated bins. Failure to do so may result in a fine.
- Littering: Littering is strictly prohibited in the park. Visitors are encouraged to dispose of their rubbish in the bins provided or take it home with them.
- Alcohol and drugs: The consumption of alcohol and drugs is not permitted in the park. Anyone found under the influence or in possession of these substances may be asked to leave.
- Cycling and skating: Cycling and skating are not allowed in the park, as they can pose a danger to other visitors.
- Fires and barbecues: Fires and barbecues are not allowed in the park, as they can damage the environment and pose a fire hazard.
- Garden beds and plants: Visitors are asked to respect the garden beds and plants in the park and not to damage or remove them.
By following these rules and regulations, visitors can help to ensure that St Mary’s Pleasance remains a safe and enjoyable place for everyone to visit.