Hermiston, Edinburgh facts for kids
Hermiston is a small village, also known as a hamlet. It is located near Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland. Hermiston used to be part of a county called Midlothian.
This quiet area is found north of Heriot-Watt University's Riccarton Campus. It is also west of a big shopping and business area called Hermiston Gait. Hermiston is bordered by the A71 Calder Road to the south. The Union Canal runs along its northern edge. Just beyond the canal is the M8 motorway.
Hermiston is also famous because it is the setting for a book. The well-known Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson wrote a novel called Weir of Hermiston. Interestingly, a city in Oregon, USA, was named after this very book!
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Discovering Hermiston
Hermiston is a special place with a rich history. It is a small community that has kept its unique charm. Even though it is close to a big city like Edinburgh, it feels like a peaceful countryside village.
What is a Hamlet?
A hamlet is a very small settlement. It is usually smaller than a village and much smaller than a town or city. Hamlets often have only a few houses and sometimes no shops or churches. Hermiston is a good example of a hamlet.
Hermiston's Location
Hermiston is located on the western edge of Edinburgh. It is easy to find because it is close to major roads and waterways. The Union Canal is a historic waterway. It was once used to transport goods across Scotland. Today, it is popular for walks and boat trips.
Near Heriot-Watt University
Hermiston is very close to the Riccarton Campus of Heriot-Watt University. This university is a large and important place for learning. Many students and staff live or work near Hermiston.
Hermiston Gait
To the west of Hermiston is Hermiston Gait. This area has many shops and businesses. It is a busy place where people go for shopping and other services.
Hermiston Conservation Area
Hermiston is officially known as a Conservation Area. This means that the area has special historical or architectural importance. Because of this, rules are in place to protect its unique character. This helps to keep Hermiston looking beautiful and historically accurate for future generations.
Protecting History and Nature
Being a Conservation Area helps to preserve old buildings and the natural environment. It ensures that any new buildings fit in with the existing style. This way, the charm of Hermiston is kept safe.
Hermiston in Literature
One of the most interesting facts about Hermiston is its connection to a famous author. Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–1894) was a Scottish novelist and poet. He wrote many classic books, including Treasure Island and Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Weir of Hermiston
Stevenson's novel Weir of Hermiston is set in this very hamlet. The book tells a dramatic story. It is known for its strong characters and Scottish setting. Even though Stevenson did not finish the book before he died, it is still considered one of his great works.
Naming a City in Oregon
The fame of Weir of Hermiston spread far and wide. So much so that a city in Oregon, USA, was named after the book. This shows how much impact Stevenson's writing had around the world.
