The last of this year’s Open Lectures was held in Dunbar on 10th November. The audience were treated to a terrific talk by Dr Arran Johnston entitled” Essential Agony: The Battle of Dunbar 1650.”
Arran described in detail how in September 1650, two former allies David Leslie and Oliver Cromwell, fought a bitter battle in the rain-soaked fields around Brands Mill, Spott Burn and Doon Hill, Dunbar. We heard how the differences between politicians, the clergy and the crown led to what is known as the second but decisive battle of Dunbar. Arran’s enthusiasm and storytelling ability brought the battle to life and he had the audience enthralled. His use of landscape photographs, historical mapping and an intimate knowledge of the battle site added an extra dimension. Dunbar is remembered as a victory for Cromwell, however for Leslie, the Covenanters and Scotland, a tragedy that Arran demonstrated could have been avoided. The aftermath too had tragic consequences with recent finds in Durham brining the story up to date.
For more information visit the battle field or check out Arrans web site: https://www.arranjohnston.co.uk
What’s in Store for 2026
Below is the programme for 2026, have a look, note the dates and come along, remember these lectures are free, open to all so friends and visitors are very welcome.
| Wednesday 18th February 2026 | Open Lecture
PC Laura Jackson, East Lothian Crime Prevention Officer. “Scams and what to look out for.” How to avoid losing your pension! 2.30, Holy Trinity Church, Church St. Haddington EH41 3EX. |
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| Wednesday 15th April 2026 | Open Lecture
Martin Baker, Climate Scientist and retired Head of Science Loretto School. “Climate in Crisis: Mindsets & Narratives” A sobering account of climate change from an expert to include atmospheric science research. 2.30, Holy Trinity Church, Church St. Haddington EH41 3EX. |
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| Wednesday 3rd June 2026 | AGM & Open Lecture
Prof Alan Gow, Ageing Lab Heriot Watt University. “Building & Protecting our Health.” Healthy ageing, lifestyle factors and how these can be modified. 2.30, Holy Trinity Church, Church St. Haddington EH41 3EX. |
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| Monday 14th September 2026 | Open Lecture
Aidan Rooney, Assistant Economist Fraser of Allander Institute. “Scotland’s growth story: Rising in the East & Lagging in the West.” Recent economic growth in Scotland with particular reference to Edinburgh & East Lothian, the powerhouse region. 2.30, Holy Trinity Church, Church St. Haddington EH41 3EX. |
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| Monday 30th November 2026 | Open Lecture
Dr Fraser Hunter, Museum Scotland. “Impact of the Romans in East Lothian.” A walk through the county and what to look out for. 2.30, Holy Trinity Church, Church St. Haddington EH41 3EX. |