Mertoun House, Park

A park associated with Old Mertoun House, probably occupying the same area now occupied by its gardens and grounds, is mentioned in 1649. It may have consisted of an expanse of lightly wooded land where deer could be raised in semi-wild conditions. Where conditions were suitable, deer parks were a feature of wealthy estates from the medieval period onwards, with the animals providing a source of food and sport.

By the eighteenth century, as formal gardens became increasingly important, parkland came to be valued as much for its aesthetic value, with specimen trees and plantations planted to add interest and scenic beauty.

Text prepared by RCAHMS as part of the Accessing Scotland's Past project

NT63SW 41 c. 619 319

See also NT64SW 4.

A park is noted at Mertoun in 1649. (Old Mertoun House: NT64SW 4 is at NT 619 319)

M L Anderson 1967.