Tag Archives: Buildings

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

Architectural Details of St Mary’s in Dalkeith

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I made a quick trip to Dalkeith and before entering the estate, I found myself admiring the architectural detail of the church of St Mary’s. Their website indicated that the church was built in the “English University” style for the Duke of Buccleuch in 1843–45.

Although the window was definitely eye catching, I was personally drawn to the door.

The detail on the door was exquisite.

Then I found myself staring at the gargoyles!

There were so many! It was good to see all the detail. All to often their details are eroded but these were in relatively good condition.

I wish I knew the story behind them. Unfortunately, the church was closed and so I was not able to see inside. Hopefully next time.

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

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Walking Leith Walk, Edinburgh

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Leith Walk is said to be the longest street in Edinburgh, connecting Leith with the city centre. I must admit this sometimes confuses me as the road from North Bridge to Newington and beyond is quite long too. Regardless, Leith Walk (The Walk) is a long street with a wonderful diverse offering of shops, cafés, bars, restaurants and more! It really is quite vibrant.

I’ve been meaning to post more about The Walk however it is currently under heavy construction with the tramlines. So, it is hard to take a good photo but I was asked recently to post a pic or two. I am happy to oblige. As a result, I went through my old pics and took a few new ones.

2016 Leith Walk before the Tramline construction

Above is Leith Walk at Pilrig before the tramline construction started. The official Leith border!

2016 Picardy View from John Lewis
2021 Picardy view from St James Centre

Above is a comparison of Picardy to Leith Walk at two different dates. Picardy is at the Top of Leith Walk.

Below is a gallery of various sections of The Walk.

Showing tramline construction

Leith Walk has something for everyone. When the tramline construction is completed, it will be even more amazing.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

St James Square, Edinburgh at Night

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The day view

The controversial hotel at Edinburgh’s St James Centre! You either love it or hate it. Regardless, it is fast becoming an iconic building and landmark as part of Edinburgh city’s skyline.

The night view

As I walked a shortcut that took me across the square, I was struck by the building at night. I had not seen it all lit up at night before- or perhaps I had not noticed it.

It is quite striking and futuristic.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Colourful Haddington

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As I walked the streets of Haddington on a brisk January day, what struck me immediately was COLOUR.

Now, I love Edinburgh however the predominant colour of the buildings is grey. Especially in the city centre. As I think though the different neighbourhoods in Edinburgh, I tried to think of one that compares. Perhaps Victoria Street and Morningside but they are not as vibrant.

Haddington’s colours of their storefronts and residential homes welcomed me like a rainbow.

Come on! Don’t you agree?

I felt like a kid entering a Sweet-shop. This burst of colour was a welcome change! And needed this time of year.

It set the mood. Thank you Haddington

If you know of a neighbourhood in Edinburgh that is colourful, let me know in the comments. Better still, add a photo! I would love to know and see.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022