Maddiston offers two distinct perspectives for a stay: Valley Park on the banks of the Manuel Burn, and a local history in which coal and stone feature repeatedly. There are also community events throughout the year. If you are considering Maddiston for a short break, you can first decide whether you are more interested in its landscape, historical details or a specific event date.

Park on the Manuel Burn

Valley Park lies on the banks of the Manuel Burn. This gives the area a clear connection to the landscape: the park and the burn are distinctive features of Maddiston that set it apart from a purely historical perspective. If you would like to include a park in your plans for a short trip, you can take this into account. Park details may change, so check the latest information before planning a visit.

Community events

Community events in Maddiston include Family Fun Days, BBQs and Craft Fayres throughout the year. As the programme may change, check in advance whether your preferred event is taking place on your travel dates.

Historical names and dates

A charter from 1424 mentions the lands of Maddiston in connection with the Barony of Haining. A report from 1723 places the village of Maduston at Parkhall Burn, also known as Manuel Burn. The two references have different points of focus: the 1424 entry concerns Maddiston's lands and their connection to the barony, while the 1723 entry concerns the village's location by a burn. Maduston is the spelling used in the 1723 report; today the place is called Maddiston.

Coal, stone and craftsmanship

Two dates offer a vivid glimpse into the early history of coal mining. Allan Hill was the earliest recorded coal miner in Madistoune, in 1581. A record from 1610 mentions four houses for coal miners beside the lands of Maddiston. The two entries provide different points of reference: the first names a worker, while the second gives the number of houses. Quarrellhead, now part of the village of Maddiston, preserves a name associated with quarrying. Stone quarried in Maddiston was worked by masons active there. In 1753, Alexander Baird of Quarrellhead was described as a mason in Maddingstone. The abandoned colliery site in Maddiston was used for a brickworks with an adjoining quarry. In addition, a new sandstone quarry in Maddiston was offered for lease; its stone bed was described as being 38 feet thick.

Community café

The community café at Maddiston Community Church serves Fairtrade coffee, tea, hot chocolate, scones and cakes. Please check with the church in advance to find out whether and when the café is open and what is currently available.

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