Scotland's first industrial railway carried coal from the pits around Tranent to Cockenzie Harbour. Fully laden wagons reached the shore by gravity and horses towed the empties back up the slope. The route is now a waymarked walking trail. The Battle of Prestonpans took place around here in 1745 and you will encounter many information panels relating to the Jacobite conflict.
From Prestonpans Railway Station, head up Johnny Cope's Road, signed as a walking route to Tranent. Infrequent traffic passes by. This takes you over the A1 and branching up the staircase will deposit you on the main road into Tranent. Turn left and follow the pavement towards the town centre. Upon reaching the Brig Inn, turn right then double back on yourself to merge with the footpath running below the high arched bridge. You are now on the trackbed of the old wagonway. Keep following the downhill gradient, passing Tranent Churchyard (where the first shots of battle were fired) and a modern sports complex.
The Battle of Prestonpans Memorial stands atop a sculpted coal bing. Make the quick hike up towards the flag for an excellent view of the surrounding landscape and to learn about this early success for Bonnie Prince Charlie's troops. The wagonway path then crosses the main railway and the B1361 before continuing between fields on a red ash section. Stone memorial tables to the fallen Jacobite soldiers have been placed here. Merge with the B6371 and follow the pavement towards the shore at Cockenzie. Have a wander around the grounds and gardens of Cockenzie House, now run as a community hub. The house played an important role in the battle and a tearoom is located inside. The Wagonway Museum is open 10am-3pm at weekends and can be found near the harbour. Essential for those interested in local industrial history.
Head into the centre of Prestonpans by using the shore path or the pavement alongside Edinburgh Road. Take a left up Ayres Wynd and West Loan which leads by the impressive Preston Tower and adjoining gardens. The railway station is just a short distance from here and clearly signposted. One final port of call is the late 17th-century Bankton House (pictured above) which stands on the other side of the tracks. Cross the footbridge and follow the signed track (for Tranent) parallel to the embankment. A gate soon appears on the right which gives public access to the dovecot in the vicinity of the grand house. Unsurprisingly, it is connected to the battle.
