8 Hidden Treasures: History in and around the City
Auld Reekie… The Athens of the North… Scotland’s Heart of Midlothian… You might think that Edinburgh, the famous capital of Scotland, hasfew historical secrets, with hundreds of thousands of tourists flocking to see its star attractions, such as its imposing castle and the majestic Holyrood Palace, every year. However, like any city, Edinburgh does have its hidden treasures, places which, though well of the tourist track, are no less exciting, no less interesting and certainly no less historically important. Here we explore eight of the best.
1). Arthur’s Seat
Ok, so our first example of Edinburgh’s lesser known attractions isn’t exactly hidden, or that ‘lesser known’ come to that, given that it’s covered in walkers most days of the week. Yet, what isn’t quite as well known, is the geological feature’s fascinating archaeological history. An easily defensible site, the rock has been occupied since prehistory, with a hillfort at its summit dating from Iron Age. It has also occupied a powerful place in the human imagination and has even been suggested as a possible location of Camelot! Well worth a visit for anyone wishing to explore the early history of the city.
2). Flodden Wall
Erected after the Scottish defeat at the Battle of Flodden in 1513, the Flodden Wall was built to protect the city from the threat of further English invasion. Unfortunately, it was never particularly successful as a defensive wall, although it did work as a deterrent for smugglers as it enabled goods to be taxed more easily. Nevertheless, it still exists as a prominent reminder of Edinburgh’s turbulent past and is particularly relevant now that Scotland is questioning its future as part of the United Kingdom. Remaining areas of the wall can be located on the Pleasance, near the university gym, and Greyfriars Kirkyard.
3). Holy Corner, Morningside
For the social historians among you, Holy Corner is a prime example of the religious competition that appeared during the second half of the 19th century due to the effects of the industrial revolution and the schism that appeared within the Scottish church, after the disastrous synod of 1843 (now known as the Disruption), which resulted in the Free Church of Scotland. Not only can you see the three remaining historic churches, including Christ Church (Scottish Episcopal Church), Morningside United (Church of Scotland and United Reformed Church) and the Morningside Baptist Church (Baptist Church), but you can also visit the nearby tomb of John Livingstone, a 17thcentury apothecary, on Chamberlain road.
4). Craigmillar Castle
Owned by Historic Scotland, Craigmillar Castle is often overlooked by newcomers to Edinburgh, despite the fact that it is only a few miles out of the city centre. A small, though well preserved castle, it can be found near the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and can be a great afternoon thanks to its beautiful location (with panoramic views of Edinburgh!) and ample opportunities to explore. Close to little France, it is also the place where Mary Queen of Scots is said to have coalesced after the birth of her son, the future James VI.
5). The Anatomical Museum
Located within our very own Medical School, the Anatomical Museum can be found next door to the school of History, Classics and Archaeology. Although its only open on last Saturday of every month, it does hold the skeleton of the notorious ‘bodysnatcher’ William Burke, who was hanged on 28th January 1829, along with a collection of skulls and the original anatomy lecture theatre! If you’re in the vicinity, its thoroughly recommended for a fun and free day out – A must for any History of Medicine students out there!
6). Scotland’s Secret Bunker
Kept from the public for over forty years, the 20 000 square feet of Scotland’s Secret Cold War bunker are a must for anyone wishing to understand the realities of
Britain’s involvement in the Cold War. Capable of sleeping up to three hundred personnel, it provides a fascinating insight into Scotland’s plans, should nuclear war have taken place during the latter half of the twentieth century. A fabulous visit, but quite a way from Edinburgh as it’s close to St Andrews.
7). Whale Jawbones, the Meadows
One of the few remaining reminders of The International Exhibition of Industry on the Meadows, which took place in 1886, the Jawbones is a hidden treasure that most students probably walk past every day. Found at the start of the rather aptly named Jawbone Walk, they were originally from the Faeroe Islands. A great example of the legacy of the Great Exhibition in London, as well as Scotland’s industrial heritage.
8). Morningside’s Wild West
Yes, you read it correctly, Morningside really does have its own Wild West and, while it’s not really History (it was built in the 1990s), it’s certainly a hidden treasure of the future. Originally erected by a furniture company in order to help promote their ‘Southern Style’ wares, it was also let to other businesses and even had a cinema! It’s a bit dilapidated now, as its only used by workshops and garages, but as one of the more ‘quirky’ of the city’s areas, it’s definitely not to be missed. Best of all, you don’t even have to be a cowboy...
With thanks to Oisìn Plumb for helping us with his excellent local knowledge and advice.
1). Arthur’s Seat
Ok, so our first example of Edinburgh’s lesser known attractions isn’t exactly hidden, or that ‘lesser known’ come to that, given that it’s covered in walkers most days of the week. Yet, what isn’t quite as well known, is the geological feature’s fascinating archaeological history. An easily defensible site, the rock has been occupied since prehistory, with a hillfort at its summit dating from Iron Age. It has also occupied a powerful place in the human imagination and has even been suggested as a possible location of Camelot! Well worth a visit for anyone wishing to explore the early history of the city.
2). Flodden Wall
Erected after the Scottish defeat at the Battle of Flodden in 1513, the Flodden Wall was built to protect the city from the threat of further English invasion. Unfortunately, it was never particularly successful as a defensive wall, although it did work as a deterrent for smugglers as it enabled goods to be taxed more easily. Nevertheless, it still exists as a prominent reminder of Edinburgh’s turbulent past and is particularly relevant now that Scotland is questioning its future as part of the United Kingdom. Remaining areas of the wall can be located on the Pleasance, near the university gym, and Greyfriars Kirkyard.
3). Holy Corner, Morningside
For the social historians among you, Holy Corner is a prime example of the religious competition that appeared during the second half of the 19th century due to the effects of the industrial revolution and the schism that appeared within the Scottish church, after the disastrous synod of 1843 (now known as the Disruption), which resulted in the Free Church of Scotland. Not only can you see the three remaining historic churches, including Christ Church (Scottish Episcopal Church), Morningside United (Church of Scotland and United Reformed Church) and the Morningside Baptist Church (Baptist Church), but you can also visit the nearby tomb of John Livingstone, a 17thcentury apothecary, on Chamberlain road.
4). Craigmillar Castle
Owned by Historic Scotland, Craigmillar Castle is often overlooked by newcomers to Edinburgh, despite the fact that it is only a few miles out of the city centre. A small, though well preserved castle, it can be found near the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and can be a great afternoon thanks to its beautiful location (with panoramic views of Edinburgh!) and ample opportunities to explore. Close to little France, it is also the place where Mary Queen of Scots is said to have coalesced after the birth of her son, the future James VI.
5). The Anatomical Museum
Located within our very own Medical School, the Anatomical Museum can be found next door to the school of History, Classics and Archaeology. Although its only open on last Saturday of every month, it does hold the skeleton of the notorious ‘bodysnatcher’ William Burke, who was hanged on 28th January 1829, along with a collection of skulls and the original anatomy lecture theatre! If you’re in the vicinity, its thoroughly recommended for a fun and free day out – A must for any History of Medicine students out there!
6). Scotland’s Secret Bunker
Kept from the public for over forty years, the 20 000 square feet of Scotland’s Secret Cold War bunker are a must for anyone wishing to understand the realities of
Britain’s involvement in the Cold War. Capable of sleeping up to three hundred personnel, it provides a fascinating insight into Scotland’s plans, should nuclear war have taken place during the latter half of the twentieth century. A fabulous visit, but quite a way from Edinburgh as it’s close to St Andrews.
7). Whale Jawbones, the Meadows
One of the few remaining reminders of The International Exhibition of Industry on the Meadows, which took place in 1886, the Jawbones is a hidden treasure that most students probably walk past every day. Found at the start of the rather aptly named Jawbone Walk, they were originally from the Faeroe Islands. A great example of the legacy of the Great Exhibition in London, as well as Scotland’s industrial heritage.
8). Morningside’s Wild West
Yes, you read it correctly, Morningside really does have its own Wild West and, while it’s not really History (it was built in the 1990s), it’s certainly a hidden treasure of the future. Originally erected by a furniture company in order to help promote their ‘Southern Style’ wares, it was also let to other businesses and even had a cinema! It’s a bit dilapidated now, as its only used by workshops and garages, but as one of the more ‘quirky’ of the city’s areas, it’s definitely not to be missed. Best of all, you don’t even have to be a cowboy...
With thanks to Oisìn Plumb for helping us with his excellent local knowledge and advice.