Hawkhill Ground: The Forgotten Sporting History of Leith
Before the modern landscape of urban housing took over, the area known as Hawkhill served as a versatile sporting hub in Leith. From its origins as a cricket pitch to its time as a football stadium, the ground witnessed the early struggles and triumphs of several historic clubs.
The Early Days and Infrastructure
The site was originally utilized by the Leith Caledonian Cricket Club. However, its purpose expanded in 1887 when Leith Athletic, established that same year, began using the ground for their matches. To accommodate a wider range of athletic pursuits, a running track was installed around the perimeter of the pitch. The venue also featured dedicated spectator areas, with stands constructed on the western side and in the south-eastern corner.
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A Brief Encounter with Hibernian
In 1891, Hibernian—who were without a home ground at the time—reached an agreement to play at Hawkhill. Their tenure was remarkably short; they played only one match on February 28, which ended in a 1–1 draw against Mossend Swifts. Following this game, a dispute regarding the terms of the lease led to Hibernian's immediate departure from the site.
Leith Athletic's Fluctuating Tenure
The relationship between Leith Athletic and Hawkhill was marked by periods of absence and return. The club eventually left the ground to play at Beechwood Park, but by 1899, they found themselves temporarily homeless for the 1899–1900 season.
Their home fixtures during this transitional year were split between venues. While the first home match took place at St Bernard's' New Logie Green, the club returned to Hawkhill on September 9 for a 2–1 victory over Partick Thistle. After one more game at New Logie Green, Leith Athletic returned to Hawkhill for the rest of the season. Their final match at the ground was a 1–0 loss to Morton on March 24, after which the club relocated to their new home at Chancelot Park.
The End of an Era
The ground's life as a professional sporting venue came to an end in 1920. At that time, the site was incorporated into the Hawkhill Recreation Ground, a public space for community leisure. Eventually, the land was repurposed entirely and used for housing developments.
Key Facts
- Original Use: Home to the Leith Caledonian Cricket Club.
- Football Debut: Leith Athletic began playing there in 1887.
- Facilities: Included a perimeter running track and stands on the west side and south-east corner.
- Hibernian's Stay: Lasted only one match (a 1–1 draw with Mossend Swifts) in 1891.
- Final Match: A 1–0 defeat to Morton on March 24, 1900.
- Closure: Closed in 1920 to become part of a recreation ground before becoming housing.
| Year/Date | Event | Outcome/Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1887 | Leith Athletic Arrival | Club established and began playing at the ground |
| Feb 28, 1891 | Hibernian's Only Match | 1–1 draw vs Mossend Swifts |
| Sept 9, 1899 | Return of Leith Athletic | 2–1 win vs Partick Thistle |
| March 24, 1900 | Final Match | 1–0 loss vs Morton |
| 1920 | Closure | Became Hawkhill Recreation Ground |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which club first used the Hawkhill ground?
The ground was originally used by the Leith Caledonian Cricket Club before it became a venue for football.
Why did Hibernian leave Hawkhill after only one game?
Hibernian left the ground due to a dispute over the terms of the lease following their 1–1 draw with Mossend Swifts.
What sports facilities were available at Hawkhill?
In addition to the football pitch, the ground featured a perimeter running track and spectator stands located on the western side and the south-eastern corner.
Where did Leith Athletic move after leaving Hawkhill for the final time?
At the end of the 1899–1900 season, Leith Athletic moved to their new ground at Chancelot Park.
What happened to the site after the ground closed in 1920?
The site first became part of the Hawkhill Recreation Ground and was subsequently developed for housing.