Gilmerton Cove

Gilmerton Cove is a series of underground passageways and chambers hand-carved from sandstone located beneath the streets of Gilmerton, an ex-mining village, now a suburb of Edinburgh.

The entrance to Gilmerton Cove is through a visitor centre adapted from a traditional mining cottage. This cottage now houses imaginative audio and visual displays that depict the various theories behind the origins of Gilmerton Cove which, after extensive archaeological and historical research, still remain a mystery.

These include theories that it was the unique work of an 18th century local blacksmith George Paterson, a drinking den for gentry, a refuge for persecuted Covenanters and a smugglers lair.

Gilmerton Cove has proved to be one of the most highly rated attractions since it reopened in 2003 following a five-year collaborative project between Gilmerton Heritage Trust and The City of Edinburgh Council.

The caves have been inhabited for at least 300 years and various theories exist about what they were used for, among them that they may have been a meeting place for the Covenanters, who were persecuted in the 17th century for opposing the religious reforms of King Charles I. Records show they were inhabited by George Paterson, a blacksmith, in the 18th century, but archaeologists say the network could not have been dug by one man and believe they may date back centuries.

Due to the nature of the site the Cove is unsuitable for wheelchair users.