Coo’s Green (Scots: Cows Green), is hidden behind Tantallon Terrace and Marine Parade, North Berwick. It runs from the Glen Burn (also known as the Mill Burn) in the East to the Lodge Grounds in the West.
It has been common land since 1568 when it was gifted to the town by James VI in return for their political support and the supply of soldiers when necessary. The land was given for the common use of the citizens, for grazing their animals (hence Coos Green), washing and bleaching clothes, repairing the fisherman’s nets, travelling fairs and playing their sports. The area becomes known as the ‘toune links’ and forms part of the town’s ‘common good’. Since that time the green has been continuously used and appreciated by residents and visitors alike as a facility for all to enjoy. As long ago as 1853 an area of enclosed poplars was planted creating a ‘safe place for children to play’..
The green is the last area of the links to survive as open grassland where children can play without risk from cars. Residents can walk their dogs and pedestrians can dally and admire the myriad of wild flowers. There is constant foot traffic as the green connects the Glen to the town. None of the boundaries is a road and the absence of cars from this sheltered spot has made it a well-used and much-loved haven.
East Coos Green is now designated as part of the Glen Burn Local Biodiversity Site recognising its importance.
