Hail to Priorsford, with Lady Deborah Stewartby
Lady Deborah Stewartby, John Buchan’s granddaughter, explores the life of Anna Buchan, novelist and community figure whose lifelong contributions helped shape Peebles and its heritage.
- Tue 13 Oct 2026
- 19:30
- Eastgate Theatre
- £12 per ticket. Booking fee applies. Book here
John Buchan’s granddaughter, Lady Deborah Stewartby, will speak about her great-aunt Anna Buchan, sister of the celebrated author John Buchan, to whom the museum in Peebles is dedicated.
Anna spent her entire life in Peebles and, together with her brother Walter Buchan, the town’s clerk, made a significant contribution to local life until her death in 1947. A successful writer in her own right, Anna authored eleven novels, including three set in and inspired by Peebles. In her fiction, she renamed the town “Priorsford,” and her best-known works include Penny Plain and Pink Sugar.
She wrote under the pseudonym O. Douglas, choosing not to trade on her brother’s literary reputation. Anna and Walter were also founder members of the Tweeddale Society, reflecting their deep commitment to the community.
Deborah Stewartby’s talk will explore the life, work and legacy of this remarkable woman, whose influence and memory still endure in Peebles today.