Scheduled MonumentsScotlandLeith Links, artillery mounds
Artillery mounds

Leith Links, artillery mounds

Scotland
HES SM1195
Site type
Artillery mounds
Nation
Scotland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Leith Links artillery mounds is a defensive earthwork located in Midlothian, Scotland, comprising raised fortifications constructed to mount artillery pieces. The site dates from the early modern period, when such earthen batteries became standard features of harbour and coastal defences around the Firth of Forth. The mounds represent the practical application of early modern military engineering, designed to command approaches to Leith and protect the port with cannon fire. This scheduled monument survives as evidence of Scotland's sixteenth and seventeenth century investment in permanent artillery fortifications, reflecting the strategic importance of Leith as a trading port and military strongpoint.

Leith Links, artillery mounds is a scheduled monument protected by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM1195. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Leith Links, artillery mounds?

Leith Links artillery mounds is a defensive earthwork located in Midlothian, Scotland, comprising raised fortifications constructed to mount artillery pieces. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM1195.

Who is responsible for protecting Leith Links, artillery mounds?

Leith Links, artillery mounds is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic Environment Scotland — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Scotland. The official designation reference is SM1195.

What other scheduled monuments are near Leith Links, artillery mounds?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Liberton Battery, anti-aircraft battery 100m E of Liberton Kennels (6.7 km), Craiglockhart Castle (7.4 km), Wester Craiglockhart Hill, fort (7.4 km).

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