Category Archives: Edinburgh

The Hidden Lane in Edinburgh

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I have walked this lane many times. It does not have a street name. However, it is a good shortcut from the Burns Monument (south of Regent Road) to Calton Road, or just to the east of Jacob’s Ladder.

Entrance to the lane located beside The Burns Monument, South of Regent Road.

Although this hidden lane has stairs, it is not as steep as those of Jacob’s Ladder. As a result, it is an easier alternative.

Narrow hidden lane to Calton Road

I personally like walking it. It’s like a secret passageway to my destination. In Spring it is quite pretty too!

As you reach the fork in the lane the views of Waverley and the Old Town are worth the stop.

Fork in the hidden lane to Calton Road or Jacob’s Ladder

Then as you continue south to Calton Road one has to be prepared for the stairs.

Again the stairs are not as steep as those of Jacob’s Ladder but there are quite a few of them.

I like discovering these “country lanes” in the middle of the city.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

The John Rattray Statue

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I had not walked Leith Links for a while and so I took a stroll. I was delighted to see the John Rattray statue…. with access! The last time I was at the Links it was bordered off.

The plaque

Dr John Rattray was a surgeon, Jacobite and golfer. He was responsible for preparing the first rules of golf in 1744 for the first competition in Leith.

It was good to see it in the open!

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Stockbridge Pharmacy building in Edinburgh

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There are many popular, photogenic spots in Stockbridge, Edinburgh. It is a favourite spot for photographers. However, now when I think about it, I rarely see photos of the Stockbridge Pharmacy building.

I’m not sure why not; it’s a beautiful building! So, I had to take a few pics! I wish I knew the purpose of the window in the chimney stacks.

Front Entrance to Stockbridge Pharmacy

The workmanship is outstanding. The detail and quality are amazing.

I also took a quick look inside.

Interior Ceiling at the Stockbridge Pharmacy

The interior ceilings were equally amazing. A feast for the eyes.

Another Scottish hidden pearl but this one is hiding in plain sight.

Let me know what you think in the comment section, or by sharing or hitting the Like button.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Walking Corstorphine Hill

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I don’t know why I decided to walk to Corstorphine hill! It was really muddy but for some reason I did.

As I approached the hill I was surprised to see a crocus! A little out of place but there it was! A sign of more to come. Spring is coming.

View of the Pentlands near the entrance of Corstorphine Hill

I entered Corstorphine hill via Clermiston which in itself was quite the view. I could actually see the Pentlands.

I took the path that went around the perimeter of the hill. I attempted to go up the hill, but I was slipping and sliding all over the place and thought the better of it. So I kept to the perimeter.

My muddy boots, camera and make-shift hiking stick aka branch

So after making a make/shift hiking stick, I took a leisurely walk through the woods.

Beautiful views from the hill.

Midway I found that coveted seat with a view! I popped open my flask, sat down, and took in that scene.. I stayed there for quite some time. I eventually continued my walk.

I love fresh moss! There was plenty to enjoy on this path. It is so easy to understand how this forest could inspire tales of folklore. As I progressed, it was lovely to see snowdrops scattered throughout the forest floor.

Snowdrops on the forest floor

The wild snowdrops topped my day.

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© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Tea at Dalkeith Country Estate

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It was time for a walk, so off I went.

I walked right onto a bus and just like that I found myself in front of Dalkeith Country Estate. LoL! Well having made the trip, it seemed fitting to treat myself to a cream scone and tea.

I took the short trail to Restoration Yard which constitutes “a walk”. Right?

As I made my way to the restaurant, I noticed Dalkeith Palace in the distance. It looked so picturesque.

I have to say, the grounds are delightful.

The trail to Restoration Yard took me through a small forest and stream. There is something about hearing running water this time of year. It is so calming.

Upon arriving, I have to say, the whole place looked so inviting.

I headed straight to their restaurant. It was just what the doctor ordered!

I had the best view!

And the service and tea were perfect.

The visit ended by checking out the orangerie and walking the grounds.

I never noticed the totem pole on the grounds before.

It was also really nice to happen-upon one of their four-legged residents.

That was a good, leisurely walk and a lovely place to take photos.

Let me know what you think in the comment section or by tapping the Like button.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Hidden Edinburgh’s Southside Treasure

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I often pass this building when I’m walking Edinburgh’s Southside. I never tire looking at it

East Crosscauseway

Although Edinburgh’s Southside is a very vibrant and busy area, this East crosscauseway building is tucked away on a relatively quiet and hidden lane. As a result, it is easily missed- a hidden Scottish Pearl.

I personally love the architectural detail and how it stands majestically on this now seemingly inconsequential causeway.

Having said that, I can imagine that there was a time when this causeway was once a bustling spot. Opposite this building, there is a wellhead dated 1797. See the photos I took below. Again, easily missed!

This was once a key supply of water for the local residents. I now know that the causeway was an important throughway in the 16th century, south of the city centre. However, today East crosscauseway is easily missed and from my perspective, houses these historical gems. I wish I could find out more of the history of the building.

Let me know what you think in the comments section or by tapping the like button.

Post Publication Information: First of all, I am so thankful to my Facebook community who has since shared more information about East Crosscauseway in the early 20th century! It was a vibrant Jewish community and this building was the home to prominent bakers in the area. I searched for the link for this information and found this blog post: East Crosscauseway, Kleinberg’s Bakery.

Apparently the building dates from 1885. It’s known as Fisher’s Buildings and was designed in Scots Renaissance style by the architect T.P. Marwick. It is a B listed historic building.

How wonderful!! Big Thank yous to my FB community members!

© The Scottish Pearl 2022