Recollections

Craigmillar Castle

a C15 castle on the outskirts of Edinburgh

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Recollections by Eric Gold

known to many as Eric McKenzie

East London

Thank you to Eric Gold, formerly of Dumbiedykes, now living in East London, for sending me his recollections of Craigmillar Castle.

Eric wrote:

The Big Pigs

"I was looking on the web site at the surrounding area of Craigmillar Castle.  The big pigs have definitely disappeared (ha ha ha).  They were fearsome creatures and would bite you without hesitation."

Eric Gold,  East London:  February 16, 2007

Craigmillar Gala

"Craigmillar and Niddrie used to have a Gala, like a mini- festival for week, years ago, and I don't know if it still continues, but by looking at your panoramic view of what remains I doubt it.

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The locals would put on a show and the kids were all dressed up in costumes. 

They had a similar event in the Gilmerton area called the "Miners' Gala".  It took place on a Saturday."

Eric Gold,  East London:  March 21, 2007

Update

In the 1990s, Craigmillar Castle was used for filming the movie 'Robert the Bruce' and the BBC historical drama, 'Ivanhoe'.

In 2002 and 2003, a Historic Scotland guide staged several performances of one-man shows at the castle.

In 2007, as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, 'Offstage Theatre' are to perform an adaptation of Racine's 'Phaedra' at the castle.  This will be performed promenade-style at various locations around the castle.

Edinburgh Evening News, March 20, 2007,  p.18