The Granary

Kirkliston

Kirkliston village stands above the north bank of the River Almond on what was originally the main route from Edinburgh to the historic towns of Linlithgow, with its beautiful palace (the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots) and Falkirk and Stirling, well known for their respective battles made famous in Braveheart.

Indeed, Kirkliston is reputedly where the ‘Hammer of the Scots’, Edward I and his English army, camped on the eve of the Battle of Falkirk, where they defeated the army of William Wallace in 1298. Kirkliston was also the location of the first recorded Parliament in Scottish history with the Estates of Scotland meeting there in 1235.

Today, Kirkliston enjoys a more tranquil existence separated from the suburbs of the Capital by open farmland but is still very convenient for commuting to Edinburgh, Glasgow or further afield. The village retains a special charm, especially around the old parish church (or ‘kirk’ from which Kirkliston gets its name) and has a number of shops and a small supermarket plus an eclectic collection of cafes, pubs, a pharmacy, post office and newsagent. There’s also a major Tesco supermarket a few minutes’ drive away at South Queensferry, while the Gyle Shopping Centre on the western outskirts of Edinburgh is also easily accessible. 

For families, Kirkliston has a nursery and a primary school while those into keep fit will find the local gym and leisure centre very handy. And for a great day out for all the family, don’t forget to visit ‘Edinburgh’s best kept secret’, Craigie’s Farm Deli and Cafe on the Cramond road out of Kirkliston.