South Entrance Gates, Hatton House, Edinburgh

The South Entrance Gates at Hatton House date from 1692 and 1829. They are a substantial ashlar gateway composed of three parts. The central archway is tall and round-headed, designed for vehicles, and is flanked by fluted Roman Doric pilasters resting on panelled pedestals. These pilasters are topped by entablatures with heavy cornices, and a mirrored inverted arch appears between the pilasters, replicating the shape of the main arch. Smaller, keystoned pedestrian archways are situated to either side, topped with scrolls. A tablet-sundial is fixed to the rear of the central arch, and an acorn finial sits above. The keystone above the central arch is inscribed with the dates “ANNO DOM 1629-1829”. The gateway is terminated by channelled piers with deep cornices, and includes rubble buttresses at the back. A pair of iron gates, now in poor condition, lead through the central arch; their bottom edges are curved to create a circular shape.

The gates were moved to their current location in 1829, explaining the dual dates on the keystone. Originally they stood further east, at the entrance to the main avenue, and were constructed by John, 5th Earl, as part of a grand eastern approach to the Lion Gate. They are no longer used as an entrance and are in a dilapidated state.

It is possible that the side archways were added in 1829, during the relocation, and designed by William Playfair, a supposition supported by the Royal Commission on Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS) and other sources.

These gates should not be confused with the East Avenue Gates of Hatton Estate, which are located further northeast in Ratho Parish and are also listed separately.