Bankton House, Country house in East Lothian, Scotland
Bankton House is a three-storey country dwelling with Dutch-style gables and classical pediments, its harled walls painted in orange. The building has been divided into residential apartments and sits within extensive grounds featuring orchards and shared gardens.
Colonel James Gardiner acquired the estate in 1733 and died during the Battle of Prestonpans in 1745 near a thorn tree on the grounds. This event tied the house permanently to a turning point in Scottish history.
The building carries a name rooted in religious history. It once served as a stopping point along the route from Preston to Newbattle Abbey, which is why it was originally called Olivestob, meaning Holy Stop.
The site is best explored on foot as it sits on open land with gardens accessible throughout the grounds. A restored doocot building on the property houses visitor information and is typically open during daylight hours.
The doocot on the grounds hosts audiovisual presentations that bring Colonel Gardiner's story and local historical events to life for visitors. This small structure preserves details that might otherwise fade from memory.
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