Beldam Lascar Packings shop front





In 1876, marine engineer, Asplan Beldam invented a seal (“packing”) to stop the steam escaping on ships in order to make them go faster. He went on to form the Beldam Packing and Rubber Company, London, and continued with his inventions which included including semi-metallic packings, metallic rings for high-pressures, and corrugated metallic valves for air and circulating pumps.

But what of 'Lascar'? It comes from the Arabic 'Al-Ashkar' meaning ‘sailor from East India’ but t was used as shorthand for any non-European serving on a British vessel. The Lascars were the first British Asians, and despite their invaluable role, were treated dreadfully, receiving pitiful wages and and made to endure conditions not unlike slavery.

The Beldam Group expanded and there would have been Beldam branches and agents in all important ports throughout the world including this one, although it has been closed for a very long time.

Judging by the old lettering still visible, this must have been a busy area in the past – look above the shop and you can see the “Restaurant” Ghost Sign. To the left, you can see the Blue Coupons ghost sign and the “50/ Trousers” advert (“Celebrated for 50/- Suits and Trousers" ).



5 Queen Charlotte Street, Edinburgh EH6 6BA

Dr Balfour Memorial Fountain




The four columned pink drinking fountain is an unusual sight, sitting as it does at the ends of a modern housing estate.

It was erected in 1907 to commemorate the much respected local doctor, Andrew Balfour, who had died the previous year.

In 1884, Dr Balfour risked his own life to give medical assistance to miners half a kilometer underground in Niddrie's No 7 pit. Six years later, an influenza epidemic broke out and the doctor worked tirelessly to treat 146 cases in a three week period.

For an altogether less uplifting story of another Edinburgh doctor honoured by a statue, see Dr Hugh Dewar Memorial Fountain.

Klondyke Street, Newcraighall, EH21 8SQ

Autonomous Centre, Edinburgh (ACE)



ACE exists to support and encourage people to take more control of their lives to create a world free from exploitation.

From their TARDIS-like base they run advice session on debt, benefits and housing and have a wholefoods co-op, library and cinema.

They offer groups meeting spaces and can help get new projects off the ground.

When you're in the area, check out the MontgomeryPark Mural

17 W Montgomery Place, Edinburgh EH7 5HA


0131 557 6242


autonomous.org.uk

The Apprentice Training Restaurant




On large screens you can view your dish being lovingly prepared in the kitchens by apprentice chefs before it is served by hospitality students.

Fine dining at fabulous prices!

The Edinburgh College also operates EH15 Training Restaurant from their Milton Road campus.

Edinburgh College, Granton Campus, 350 West Granton Road, Edinburgh EH5 1QE


0131 559 4030


apprentice@edinburghcollege.ac.uk


www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk

Airport Prayer & Quiet Room

The airport prayer room is in the international arrivals area on the ground floor, next to the airport and tourist information desk.

It provides a quiet, restful place for passengers of all faiths and denominations.

The prayer room is open at all times for the use of anyone who wishes to carry out religious observances or to simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.


Edinburgh Airport, Edinburgh, EH12 9DN


Wauchope Mausoleum


The single storey tomb was built in 1735 on the site of a 1502 chapel for the Niddrie Marischal family who were the lairds of the area for over 600 years. It formed part of Niddrie House which was demolished in in the 1950s to clear land for the housing estate in which it incongruously sits today.

There is unconfirmed anecdotal evidence of a lower basement level, filled in following the demolition of the mansion house.

The original wrought iron screen can be seen in front of a modern steel door, above which is a carved shield showing stars and sheaths of corn along with the inscriptions “Industria Ditat” (Labour enriches) and “Parta Tuere” (“Defend what you have earned”).

It is sometimes open for Doors Open Day during which visitors can examine the interior of the mausoleum which includes a grave slab dating from 1587.

Between 34 and 36 Niddrie House Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4TU

Scotsman Steps


When they were finished in 1899, the Scotsman Steps must have looked magnificent: 104 steps in a curving octagonal tower that linked the New Town with the Old Town but a century later, the A-listed steps were more commonly associated with antisocial behaviour than decorative stonework.

In 2009, Turner Prize winning artist, Martin Creed was commissioned to create a public artwork which resulted in the steps and landings being clad in 104 different types of marble from all around the world. The original features were retained, repaired and cleaned

The Scotsman Steps are not only a handy shortcut from North Bridge down to Waverley Station, they are a work of art in their own right.

North Bridge/Market Street, Edinburgh EH1 1TR

St John the Evangelist Church


When St John's was built between 1816 – 18, there was a Gothic revival going on and architect William Burn really packed in the 'faux medieval' features with tall spires, pointed arches and an astoundingly elaborate vaulted ceiling.

The stained glass windows are worth a visit alone. They are amongst the vivid, most dramatic you will see anywhere. The majority are the work of James Ballantine.

A visit to St John's is not complete without visiting the Terrace where you will find Henderson's vegetarian restaurant, One World fair trade shop and the Cornerstone Bookshop residing in the vaults.

(While you're here, you might want to visit neighbouring St Cuthbert Church – although next to each other, they are in different postcode areas). 


Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4BJ
0131 229 7565

 

Sandeman House Garden

Sandeman House is home to the Scottish Book Trust and, unless the garden is in use for a private function, it is free to use.

Here you will find a monument celebrating the work of Patrick Geddes (see PatrickGeddes Centre), a circular seating area.

A perfect quiet spot for reading or bookcrossing (see miscellaneous).

Trunks Close, 55 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR
0131 524 0160

St Cecilia's Hall Museum of Musical Instruments


St. Cecilia’s Hall and its Museum of Musical Instruments is believed to be the world's earliest museum of musical instruments. Originally built in 1763, the Georgian building houses an important collection of historic musical instruments, many of which are still playable in a concert setting.

St Cecilia's Hall is currently undergoing a redevelopment project and is set to re-open in 2016.

Niddry Street, Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1NQ

St Giles' Cathedral


St Giles Cathedral is the High Kirk (principal place of worship) of the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh and as one of the most notable landmarks in the city can hardly be described as a hidden gem. However, few people know that during August, St Giles offer rooftop tours for small groups – booking details are on the website.

For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, the volunteer guides are on duty each day to welcome visitors, answer questions and conduct guided tours on request.

Throughout the summer, there are regular free lunchtime concerts from visiting artists.

Despite its central location, the Cathedral Cafe is rarely busy. Handy for a quiet coffee and cake but anything more substantial is quite expensive (tip: venture down the Royal Mile to Carrubbers which is half the price).


High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1RE
0131 225 9442
@StGilesHighKirk


St Cuthbert's Kirk & Kirkyard


St Cuthbert's Kirk is thought to be the oldest site of worship in Edinburgh. Although the present building only dates from 1894, the current church is the seventh building on this spot since St Cuthbert first came to Edinburgh around 1300 years ago.

The oldest gravestone is that of Rev Robert Pont, who died in 1606. By 1738, grave robbing was a frequent occurrence (and continued for another 100 years until the law changed to allow the donation of bodies to medical science) so walls were made higher, nightly patrols were made and burials began to be recorded.

The kirk is open to the public April to September 10-4 (Mon-Saturday) where, amongst many other treasures, you can see a Tiffany stained glass window, the ornate apse and frieze of the Last Supper. Agatha Christie married her second husband Max Mallowan in the side chapel here in 1930. Visitors are actively encouraged and the friendly volunteers are happy to answer questions.

(While you're here, you might want to visit neighbouring St John' the Evangelist Church – although next to each other, they are in different postcode areas).

A path in the kirkyard leads to Princes Street Gardens West.

5 Lothian Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2EP
0131 229 1142
friends@st-cuthberts.net

Sahaja Yoga Meditation


Sahaja Yoga is a technique developed by Sri Mataji Nirmala Devi that involves the awakening of a dormant energy, which is located at the base of the spine, and is known as the Kundalini.
Free Lunch Time Meditation every Thursday at 12.30pm - 1.30pm.

Everyone is welcome at this informal session. The yoga is seated, so need for mats or special clothing.


53 George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2HT
scotlandyoga@aol.com

Royal Society Edinburgh



The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) organises regular lectures, discussion forums and exhibitions which are open to all and usually free to attend. It is an excellent opportunity to hear some fascinating and informative lectures on a variety of subjects and free refreshments are available beforehand.

The events diary can be viewed at the RSE website or sign up to be put on the mailing list.


22-26 George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2PQ
0131 240 5000
@royalsoced

Royal College of Surgeons Museum


The Museum of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh houses a large collection of historic surgical pathology material.

Sometimes gory (the collection includes a book made from human skin and an amputated foot) but always fascinating and set in a beautiful Playfair-designed building.

Due to a Heritage Lottery Fund Redevelopment Project, the Museum will be closed until Summer 2015.

Nicolson Street, Edinburgh EH8 9DW
0131 527 1711
@surgeonshall

Rose Street


The pedestrianised street between Princes Street and George Street Rose Street is undoubtedly one of the city's liveliest streets being usually associated with pub crawls. That's not to say there aren't any hidden treasures, you just might have to look a bit harder to find them.

Few revellers will have noticed the eight large pebble rose mosaics set into the road – each one is a different variation on the rose design.

Essential Edinburgh has plans to revive Rose Street's bohemian air, using the thoroughfare's literary links as a theme, are ongoing. To date these have included the installation of 24 poetry planters; the erection of decorative steel poetry panels in the windows of the BT Telephone Exchange, and the creation of a poetry wall at the rear of the Roxburghe Hotel.

Remade in Edinburgh


This social enterprise teaches repair skills and works in partnership to campaign for goods to be built to last.

Expert volunteers teach sewing and mending, computer repair, run workshops from leather repair to bookbinding, and sell good quality affordable laptop and desktop computers.

The real gem is the open-to-all weekly repair surgery every Wednesday 7-9pm. Take along your laptop and clothes and you will be helped to fix them. Free but donations welcomed.
17 Guthrie Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JG
0131 261 5904
@remadedinburgh

The Queen's Gallery



Hardly a secret attraction but included because of a little known perk that allows free access for a whole year. Simply buy a ticket and, at the end of your visit, ask a Warden to stamp your ticket to convert it into a 1-Year Pass, then you are free to revisit as often as you like for the next 12 months. 

If you time your first visit towards the end of an exhibition and you might manage to see as many as three different exhibitions for the price of one entry.

Tip: The cafe is is very elegant but if you are counting your pennies, pop across the road to the Scottish Parliament where the cafe is much more reasonably priced!

Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX


Potterrow Underpass


One of only a few legal graffiti walls in Edinburgh. Others include New Street (which will be removed when work commences on controversial 'Caltongate'/New Waverley) and a railway tunnel under Telford Road.

Patrick Geddes Centre


Riddles Court is truly a hidden gem in every sense of the phrase. The A-listed 16th century house is one of the most historically significant buildings within the World Heritage Site. A wealth of influential and creative people have lived and worked within its walls in its 400 year history including pioneering town planner Patrick Geddes whose motto “Vivendo Discimus” (“By Living We Learn”) can be seen over the door.

A keen ecologist, Geddes was was instrumental in creating gardens in the slums of the old town for the benefit of the children ‘starved of nature’ .

Work began in 2014 to create The Patrick Geddes Centre for Learning and Conservation and the SHBT began a campaign to crowd-fund the Patrick Geddes Library with support by the anonymous 'Book Sculptor'.

Tours are held on Thursdays – check the website for further details.

For more information on Patrick Geddes (including a Heritage Trail) see patrickgeddestrust.co.uk

Riddles Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PQ
0131 220 1232
@SHBT
 

Parliament House


@scotcourts
Parliament Square, EH1 1RQ
0131 225 2595


Built in 1632 to house the pre-Union Parliament of Scotland, Parliament House now houses the Supreme Courts of Scotland (The High Court of Justiciary and the Court of Session ), The Faculty of Advocates and the National Law Library of Scotland (but n.b. it does not house the Scottish Parliament!). 

The building and it's first floor cafe, are open to the public. Look out for the south window of Parliament Hall depicting the inauguration of the Court of Session by King James V in 1532. Generally, the courtrooms are open to the public and you can attend and listen to proceedings.

Panmure House

@Adamsmithpanmur
4 Lochend Close, off 129 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8BL
0131 451 3090

Built in 1691, Panmure House is a rare survival of a late seventeenth century town mansion. It was the home to philosopher and economist Adam Smith from 1778 till his death in 1790 (he is buried in nearby Canongate Kirk).

A £430,000 programme of works to adapt the A-listed building as an education centre is scheduled to be completed in Spring 2015.

Panda and Sons

79 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4NF
0131 220 0443
@PandaandSons

What's not to love about a hidden bar?!

Your first task is to find the speakeasy. Your second is to figure out how to access it.

Secreted beneath Queen Street, the only visible part of Panda and Sons is the street level entrance in the style of a vintage barbershop. Once you descend to the basement you will have to master a bookcase door.

(Don't get caught out by the late afternoon opening hours – check the website first!)

Old Calton Burial Ground


27 Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh EH1 3BQ

Unlike other burial grounds, the management of Old Calton was not attached or under the control of a church, but was run as a business by the Incorporated Trades of Calton. Established in 1718 as the resting place for merchants and tradespeople, it was bisected in 1817 with the construction of Waterloo Place and interments ceased in 1865.

Monuments in the larger, southern section include:
  • Philosopher David Hume's Mausoleum
  • The Scottish-American Soldiers' Monument - a standing figure of Abraham Lincoln, with a freed slave giving thanks at his feet which, when unveiled in 1893 drew huge crowds.
  • The Political Martyrs’ obelisk commemorating five political reformists from the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

The north section is by far the smaller but this rarely visited graveyard is worth a look. The entrance is next to the Parliament House Hotel(15 Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH1 3BJ).

Old Assembly Close

172 High Street, Edinburgh EH1


This atmospheric alley has some interesting 'ghost signs' (advertising from long gone trades).

It is worth a wander down to see the B-listed MacKenzie Building, formerly George Heriots Hospital School. When the school moved out in the 19th century, the building became Smith Fletcher & Co's wireworks. Today it is used by the Faculty of Advocates.

North Gray's Close


Rear of 125 High Street, Edinburgh EH1

Now in a ruinous state and listed on the Buildings at Risk register, the roofless buildings should be viewed while they still can be. Pay particular attention to the roll-moulded double doorway with a panel dated 1581.

National Library of Scotland

George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EW
0131 623 3700

Don't be put off by the imposing exterior! Although first and foremost a research library, the NLS puts on some fantastic exhibitions and events (including regular 'Getting Started' workshops if you do want to undertake some research). It also has a cafe and a beautiful gift shop.

The News Steps


The News Steps Edinburgh EH1 1PH

The steps run from St. Giles' Street (off the Royal Mile) at the top, down 124 steps to Market Street (close to Waverley Station). From the top you can admire the view across North Bridge and Calton Hill. The lush gardens on the left belong to the Bank of Scotland (see Museum on the Mound).




Since 2013, there has been a pedestrian thoroughfare linking Advocate’s Close with the News Steps.

National Museum of Scotland



Chambers Street, Edinburgh EH1 1JF


0300 123 6789


nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-scotland


@NtlMuseumsScot






The museum is one of Edinburgh's must-see attractions but if you are limited for time, make sure you see:






Ballachulish Figure (Early People, Level -1) - the mysterious life-sized female figure was carved from a single piece of alder with with pebbles for eyes. It was found under deep peat during building work in November 1880 near Loch Leven. Carbon-dating shows it to be over 2,500 years old.






Group Space (Entrance Hall, Level 0) - Eating at the Museum is pricey but packed lunches can be eaten in the Group Room if it has not been reserved for a group visit. Alternatively, head across the road to the Sheriff Court cafe.






Millennium Clock Tower (Entrance to Discoveries, Level 1) - a 10m high kinetic sculpture in wood, metal and glass With it's themes of death and swinging pendulum mirror, it is quite unsettling to see it chime on the hour.






The Connect and Communicate galleries are some of the most interactive and family-friendly spaces. However, their respective locations are subject to change as new galleries, showcasing decorative art, design, fashion, science and technology exhibits open in 2016.






Arthur's Seat Coffins (Level 4, Scotland galleries) - In June 1836, some boys, hunting for rabbits on on Arthur's Seat, spotted some thin sheets of slate, which, when they pulled out, revealed 17 tiny (95mm in length) coffins hidden inside a gap in the rocks. Their purpose remains a mystery and caught the imagination of Ian Rankin who mentions them in “The Falls”.






Rooftop Terrace (level 7) – take the lift all the way to the top floor for a truly unforgettable view of Edinburgh's skyline.






Alternatively, take a free 'Highlights' tour which lasts an hour and leaves from the Tour Meeting Point, Entrance Hall, Level 0

Museum on the Mound


The Mound, Edinburgh EH1 1YZ
0131 243 5464
@museumonmound

Ever wanted to crack a safe or see what a £million looks like? This is the place for you! The museum tells the story of money and history of Scottish banking.

This often overlooked museum is housed in the magnificent, domed head office of the Bank of Scotland which today also serves as the Scottish HQ for the Lloyds Banking Group.

There is a quirky gift shop which sells banknote design tea towels and coin keyrings – all the profits support Lloyds Banking Group's Charity of the Year.

Muschet's Cairn

Duke's Walk, Queen's Park EH8 8JB

The pile of stones commemorates the site where apprentice surgeon, Nicol Muschet, murdered his wife Margaret in 1720.

Just weeks after their marriage, Muschet enlisted friends and relatives in various witless plans to get rid of her (including staged adultery and no fewer than three poisoning attempts). His monogrammed shirt left at the scene where he slit his young wife's throat, backed up by confessions from his sister-in-law meant he was found guilty and hanged.

The (Original) Mosque Kitchen(s)


Indoor: 31–33 Nicolson Square, Edinburgh EH8 9BX
Outdoor: 50 Potterrow, Edinburgh EH8 8BT (behind Central Mosque)

Without getting into a debate over which is the 'original' Mosque Kitchen or which is the best, here is what you need to know: both serve excellent, cheap curries, rice and naan.

Closed every Friday 1 – 1.45
Open at Iftar time during Ramadan

During August, the Discover Islam Festival includes exhibitions and tours of the Mosque.

While here, take a minute to look at the Brassfounders’ Pillar in Nicolson Square Gardens which was commissioned for the 1886 International Exhibition of Science, Art and Industry and moved here from the Meadows after the exhibition.

Maltese Cross

229 229 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8BJ

You might need patience to see this cross as it lies on the busy road, marking the site of a standing cross of St John (or Malta) – the original was moved to nearby Canongate Kirk where it can still be seen.

Magdalene Chapel


Built between 1541 and 1547, Magdalene Chapel is the headquarters of the Scottish Reformation Society and contains the only surviving intact pre-Reformation stained-glass window in Scotland.

0131 220 1450

Also of interest are the 'brods' (receipts for donations received) which line the walls like a latter day supporters' wall.

The Chapel is open to visitors, usually on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 10.30-2.30, however you are advised to check first.

Herman Lyon's Mausoleum


Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA

Calton Hill, with its follies, monuments and observatory, not to mention amazing views across the city, is one of Edinburgh's must-see attractions. However, few visitors to the National Monument have heard of Herman Lyon's Mausoleum.

Herman Lyon (or Lion) came to Edinburgh from Prussia in 1788 and bought a burial plot for himself and his family – the first Jewish grave in Edinburgh – on Calton Hill in 1795. The tomb, which has been explored by experienced potholers is reported to be about 3 x 4.5m with a 12m long passage leading up to it. Although the entrance has now been sealed off, the observant walker on the path from the Dugald Stewart Monument to the north-western edge of the walls of the City Observatory (designed by William Henry Playfair in 1818, and today houses the CollectiveGallery) to the Dugald Stewart Monument may notice 'slabs' which are actually the roof of the mausoleum.

Tourists may have heard of the One O'clock Gun which is fired from Edinburgh Castle but the One O'clock time ball, which is raised and dropped from the City Observatory is less well known.

It is on Calton Hill that the Beltane Fire Society hold Beltane and Samhuinn festivals to mark the changing of the seasons.

Flags fly from the Nelson Monument on Calton Hill on Trafalgar Day.

More information about the treasures of Calton Hill can be seen at EWHT

Kleen Cleaners

10 St Mary's Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SU
0131 556 4337


Kleen Cleaners Dry Cleaning and Laundry is the only dry-cleaners in Scotland to be awarded the Royal Charter by Her Majesty the Queen...and to have a bomb shelter!

But the real reason they are included in Secret Edinburgh is because of their little-known selection of vintage garments for sale which, because they have been dry cleaned, have none of the 'vintage' odour so associated with specialist vintage shops.

While you are there, take time to admire the gorgeous curved double fronted windows.

Johnson Terrace Wildlife Garden

Off the Patrick Geddes Steps, adjacent to 25 Johnston Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2NH
This tiny wildlife garden is the smallest nature reserve managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust.  Thanks to some careful planning it attracts frogs, birds, and the odd urban fox.

Contact Scottish Wildlife Trust for access or arrange a tour through greenyondertours.com

Jacob's Ladder

Regent Road (top)
Calton Road (bottom)


Jacob's Ladder is a steep, uneven, staircase carved from the volcanic rock of Calton hill which leads down from Regent Road (to the east of Princes Street) emerging under the Calton Rail Bridge on Calton Road. While at Regent Road, take time to take in the magnificent views over the Old Town.

Heave Awa' Hoose

Paisley Close, 101 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SP

In 1861, the overcrowded 250 year-old houses at Paisley Close collapsed with the loss of 35 lives. As debris was being cleared away, a young boy was heard to shout “Heave awa' lads, I'm no deid yet”.

The tragedy resulted in the creation of a Medical Officer of Health - and the inscription at Paisley Close (albeit “lads” being substituted” for “chaps”).

Jim Haynes Rhino

Charles Street, Edinburgh EH8 9AD


The bronze rhino sticking out from the Faculty of Informatics building marks the spot where Jim Haynes' Paperback Bookshop was situated in the 1960s.



Haynes is credited with founding the Traverse Theatre and was a leading figure in the alternative scene. Nowadays, he is best known for hosting open-house dinners for strangers every Sunday at his Paris home. If this is your sort of thing, check out Charlie& Evelyn's Supper Club.

Charlie & Evelyn's Supper Club

EH4 (address given to confirmed diners)
rachelandchrisrowley@gmail.com
charlieandevelynstable.blogspot.co.uk

The hosts organise regular dinner parties for up to eight people in their home. They also organise occasional pop-up events.

Although there are several private dining clubs in Edinburgh, often they are short-lived, whereas Edinburgh's first supper club appears to be sticking around.

Freemasons' Hall

96 George Street, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH2 3DH
0131 225 5577
curator@grandlodgescotland.org
http://grandlodgescotland.com
Freemasonry began in Scotland and is the oldest secular fraternal society in the world.  Freemasons Hall, built in 1913, is the head office of the Grand Lodge of Scotland.  The four storey elegant building has marble floors, stained glass windows and a beautiful glass domed roof.  It also houses a museum containing the oldest Masonic Records in the world (Aitcheson's Haven from 1599), the 'Burns Inauguration' painting (Robert Burns was a Freemason) and various Masonic artifacts.

Freemasons' Hall is open to the public (no passwords or secret handshakes required) Monday to Friday 9.00 am - 4.30 pm and tours are conducted 10.00 am and 2.00 pm.  At certain times,  tours of the building may be unavailable or limited to the Museum only so be sure to check the 'Kalendar' on their website.

More info: Grand Lodge Scotland

Waverley Station




Edinburgh's principal station sees more than 18,000 passengers a year, but how many of them really notice its charms?

Booking Hall

Look up and see the roof and cupola. On the south wall there is a plaque commemorating Nigel Gresley, who designed some of the great British steam locomotives including The Mallard.

Platform 2

Every Friday between 11am – 7pm, the every week, the concourse becomes a vibrant indoor market of ethically-sourced gifts, local products and tasty treats. The markets are organised by Local Motive.

Platform 9

Set into the southern supporting wall of the roof across from Platform 9 is the 'Plum(b)ers Shop' which is presumably leftover from a time when this part of the station was accessible on foot. You can't help wondering about the tiny letter “b” which has been squeezed in – was someone teased mercilessly for their poor spelling...? Was there some debate about the spelling...?

Platform 19

Above a closed off tunnel opposite platform 19 is a sign reading “Site of the original Edinburgh-Leith-Newhaven Railway.” The tunnel ran beneath, what is now the Princes Mall shopping centre, through the site of the former Canal Street station (which closed in 1868) and into Scotland Street Tunnel (see Scotland Street Tunnel).

BITE Card

The discount card gives 10% off at food and drink outlets based in UK mainline railway stations (including Burger King, Millie's Cookies, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust and the Nor Loch pub in Waverley). Get your free BITE card at bitecard.co.uk  

Kids Go Free Ticket

With a Scotrail 'Kids Go Free' ticket, up to two kids (aged 5-15) travel free with each adult. An added bonus is that you also get one free child's entry to selected attractions - which, in the case of the Zoo, is worth £12! Even if you weren't planning to get the train, it might make it worth your while (and it's useful to know about the four minute journey from Waverley Station to Haymarket!). [note – Abellio take over April 2015]


Waverley Railway Station, Edinburgh, EH1 1BB


0845 711 4141


networkrail.co.uk


@NetworkRailSCOT



Scotland Street Tunnel

When the 960 metre railway tunnel opened 1847, it completed the final section of the Edinburgh-Granton line passing deep beneath the cobbled streets of the New Town from Canal Street Station (later to form part of Waverley station) to Scotland Street.

Due to the steep (1:27 gradient) engines were disconnected from their carriages at Scotland Street station and the northern end of the tunnel, and hauled by steel cable to Canal Street.

As a railway tunnel, it was short-lived, closing in 1868. Other uses include storage for coal wagons, commercial mushroom growing and, during World War II, it was used as an air raid shelter and emergency control centre for the London and North Eastern Railway company.

The southern end of the tunnel was demolished in 1983 to make way for the foundations of the
Princes Mall shopping centre and, today, only a narrow (1.5m wide) ventilation pipe connects
the tunnel to the former site (which can be seen from platform 19 of Waverley Station).

Scotland Street Tunnel is secured at its north entrance by a steel screen which allows a peek inside.  The mouth of the tunnel forms a 'Teen Shelter', just one of many pieces of play equipment in King George V Park.

Library of Mistakes


4a Wemyss Place Mews, Edinburgh, EH3 6DN
keeper@libraryofmistakes.com

The Library of Mistakes (registered charity SC040205) was founded to promote the study of financial history with a view to avoiding past mistakes. Approved visitors can browse through a collection of over 2,500 financial, economic and business books.

Dr Hugh Dewar Memorial Fountain


Abercorn Park, Abercorn Terrace, Edinburgh EH15 2EF

Edinburgh Council's description of Abercorn Park reads “The park contains a fountain in memory of local doctor Hugh Dewar, who cared for the sick in the area from 1866 to 1914” but that doesn't tell the whole story...


The inscription on the grey granite drinking fountain informs visitors that the foundation was erected in remembrance of Dr Hugh Dewar “by his grateful patients and numerous friends, who deplore the loss in the prime of manhood of a kind friend and skillful and beloved physician. His quiet charity was known to the needy”. And still, we are no closer to the whole story.

Jane Anderson, died at his hands on 4 February 1914, a day after Dr Dewar called to her house to deliver her first child.

In the third stage of labour, while trying to remove the placenta and umbilical cord, Dr Dewar noticed a 'tube' which he proceeded to pull. He had in fact removed the 4m mucous membrane lining of the large intestine.

Quite how a medically qualified person could make such an appalling mistake is utterly incomprehensible but, it happened, and Jane Anderson died, in agony, aged 25.

Dr Dewar was never brought to justice – on the day before his trial for culpable homicide, he took his own life, most likely with narcotics.

For more info see:  The Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, Volume 93, December 2000

A memorial to another, far less controversial doctor, is the Dr Balfour Memorial Fountain at Newcraighall.