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In this section of our web guide, we will discuss and offer resources for the town of Haddington, East Lothian, Scotland.

The town is situated mainly on the left bank of the River Tyne and is the chief administrative, cultural, and geographical centre for East Lothian. It is about seventeen miles east of Edinburgh.

Haddington's history dates back to the 12th century. Its name is derived from the Old English Haddingatun, meaning the settlement of Hadda's people. It quickly became an important market town, playing a significant role in Scottish history. David I granted Haddington royal burgh status in the mid-12th century. It was the birthplace of Alexander II of Scotland in 1198.

Like many Scottish communities, Haddington's early economy was based on agriculture and trade. Its fertile land was ideal for farming, and Haddington became known for grain production. Built in the 19th century, the Haddington Corn Exchange speaks to its agricultural heritage, and the construction of the Edinburgh-Haddington road elevated its status as a centre for trade.

Today, its economy is more diverse, with a mixture of retail, small-scale manufacturing, and service industries. Additionally, its proximity to Edinburgh, the nation's capital city, makes it a desirable location for commuters.

Haddington has three state primary schools: Haddington Primary School, St. Mary's Roman Catholic Primary School, and Letham Mains Primary School. Its secondary school is Knox Academy, originally founded in 1379. The Compass School is an independent fee-paying primary school and nursery.

One of Haddington's more notable places of worship is the Collegiate Church of Saint Mary the Virgin. Construction of this Gothic-style church began in 1380, although several restorations were done over the centuries. St. Mary's is the longest church in Scotland, measuring 206 feet from east to west. Other churches in Haddington include Saint Martin's Kirk, a Baptist church, a United Reformed church, and several smaller chapels and churches serving various denominations.

Haddington is home to several architecturally and historically significant structures. One of these is the Haddington Town House, a 17th-century building that serves as the town's administrative center. Another is the John Gray Centre, which includes a library, museum, and archive.

Haddington's medieval origins are still evident in its narrow streets and historic buildings, many of which were restored or rehabilitated in the mid-20th century as part of a national Improvement Scheme.

Haddington is also home to the East Lothian Amateur Boxing Club, the Haddington Athletic Football Club, the Haddington Rugby Football Club, and the Haddington Cricket Club.

Governmental agencies, businesses, industries, schools, places of worship, libraries, museums, historical places, organisations, sporting and recreational programmes and facilities, activities, and events in Haddington, Scotland, are appropriate for this category.

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