A PACKED day of celebrations for the tricentenary of Scotland’s earliest railway will take place tomorrow (Saturday).

The 1722 Waggonway Project has arranged a day of celebration, including a commemoration, open day and an evening 300th birthday event.

Visitors can enjoy learning the history and significance of the line, which was described by TV presenter and historian Alice Roberts as “trailblazing” in a recent BBC series.

Following the daytime events, the highlight of the evening’s 300th birthday event is the licensed bar featuring two guest beers from local Prestonpans brewers Faking Bad Brewery.

The two special Waggonway-themed brews will be Gravity and Fishbelly.

Ed Bethune, who leads the Waggonway Project, said: “Our project started five years ago but we’ve always had our eye on 2022 as a significant year in the history of the Waggonway, and indeed Scottish history.

“May 7 is the exact date when the first rail timbers were cut by William Dickson and it seems fitting to mark the date with some celebratory events.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors for the day and sharing our journey of discovery which has led us to this point in the project.”

East Lothian Courier: The 1722 Waggonway Museum & Heritage Centre, CockenzieThe 1722 Waggonway Museum & Heritage Centre, Cockenzie

The itinerary for Saturday is as follows:

  • 10:30am: Commemoration ceremony at the Waggonway path (at the battlefield section). Visitors are advised to walk from Cockenzie, Prestonpans or Meadowmill, as parking near the location is very limited;
  • Noon to 3pm: Open day at the Waggonway Museum;
  • 5pm to 11pm: 300th birthday at the Waggonway Museum with licensed bar, including Faking Bad Brewery beers.