East Lothian
Unitary authority in southeast Scotland which was previously a district
within Lothian region (1975- 96) and a county until 1974
Area:
677 sq km/261 sq mi
Towns:
Haddington (administrative headquarters), North Berwick, Dunbar
Physical:
Area of contrasts, with coastal plains of cliffs, beaches and estuarine
marines, broad river valley of the Tyne, volcanic outcrops (Bass
Rock, Traprain Law) and gentle slopes of the Lammermuir Hills
Features:
Tantallon Castle; Muirfield golf course; Traprain Law fort
Industries:
Whisky distilling, agricultural-based
Agriculture:
Arable farming on plains Population: (1995) 87,600
History
Traprain Law (221 m/725 ft), a hill of volcanic origin near East Linton,
had the most important native stronghold site of the Iron Age
in Scotland. A hoard of 4th-century Roman silver coins was found
here in 1919 (now in Edinburgh's Museum of Antiquities).
Economy
It is an affluent area with a mixed economy. The western towns are
within the Edinburgh commuter belt, with agricultural economies
to the south, and tourist-based and service sector enterprise
by the coast.
Environment
There are 21 Sites of Special Scientific Interest, one Special Protection
Area, and one country park.
Administrative History
The county of East Lothian was more extensive than the present unitary
authority to the east, but less extensive to the west.
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