Dalkeith Tolbooth

The Dalkeith Tolbooth was first built in the 17th century. The 1648 datestone over the doorway, bearing the Scott of Buccleugh arms of the Duke of Buccleuch was added in the 18th century from the grounds of nearby Dalkeith Palace.

The building was used as the town court and prison and was maintained by money raised from the tolls on the bridges in town across the rivers North and South Esk. it was also used on market day as a weigh house to collect taxes. In addition to the upper prison there is also a dungeon known as the “black hole.” 

The building is the location of the last public hanging in Dalkeith, and the second last in Scotland, before what was reported as “a vast multitude of spectators.” William Thomson was convicted for highway robbery and was hanged on 1st March 1827. The stone circle in front of the Tolbooth door marks the site. The execution of Thomson was unusual in that he was brought to Dalkeith from Calton Jail in Edinburgh.

The building ceased use as a jail in 1841 and was later used by the Dalkeith Scientific Association as their lecture hall from 1835 to 1929, and later a church meeting hall from 1966. 

In front of the buildings entrance are gibbet stones, which formed the base for a gallows. A plaque is also located on the building and a information panel is located outside.

The building exterior was restored in 2012, replacing previous poor-quality cement repairs to the facade.