The "new town" centred on the High Street and was developed from the 15th century. The street level that you see today is lower than it was in the past. In 1846, the High Street was lowered by almost 1m. Drains were built, projecting stairs removed and pavements laid. Dean's Wynd close originally led from the Dean's House (now Chambers Institution) via the Bridgegate to the Cross Kirk and its lands on the north side of the town.

Historical content : taken from the Town Walk