Notices of Rock-Hewn Caves in the Valley of the Esk and other Parts of Scotland

Abstract

The Gilmerton Cave was traditionally believed to be created in 1725 by a blacksmith, George Paterson. It consists of many chambers and passageways with a table and chairs, also hewn out of the rock. The cave is described in detail and there are many illustrations. The Gorton Cave, popularly called Wallace's Cave, is less elaborate with three chambers and an entranceway. At Hawthornden there is an upper and lower cave, both hewn out of the steep rock face. Dovecots are housed in the lower cave. The cave at Newbattle has four distinct spaces and two passageways. Four other caves are briefly described and a list of all known caves appears as an appendix.