Conservation charity, the National Trust for Scotland is inviting amateur archaeologists to come along and get their hands dirty as it seeks to uncover the hidden secrets of the Newhailes estate, from Thursday 18 September to Monday 22 September.
Led by Trust archaeologist, Dr Daniel Rhodes, the project takes place as part of East Lothian Archaeology and Local History Fortnight. Members of the public are invited to register to take part in the dig by emailing bookings@eastlothian.gov.uk, or folk are welcome to wander by to see what secrets are being uncovered.
Newhailes is renowned for its stunning neo-palladian house, packed with the beautiful furniture and artworks that the Dalrymple family collected over the years. However, its designed landscape is of outstanding heritage significance.
Archaeologist Daniel Rhodes said, “As with any estate with such a long history, the landscape at Newhailes has developed and altered over the centuries. We hope to discover some of the features from years gone by. This information will not only tell us more about how the Dalrymples lived, but will also help us to inform future plans for the estate and the Trust’s work there.”
The designed landscape at Newhailes is an excellent example of the ‘natural’ style and was laid out in the 18th century with sequenced walks and raised terraces. Most of the original structures and design survive to some extent and this high level of preservation means that there are many archaeological layers which could be discovered.
Digging takes place from 10am until 4pm from Thursday 18 September until Monday 22Â September.
