Skip to content

Princes Street, Past and Present

Princes Street, Past and Present
Princes Street, Past and Present
Princes Street is one of the main thoroughfares and shopping areas in Edinburgh. It was created as part of James Craig's New Town development and named in honour of George III's sons. Building work on Princes Street commenced in 1769 but it was only in 1827 that the Town Council decided not to build on the south side, protecting the spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle and Old Town.

The collection of images travels along the length of Princes Street showing scenes past and present. They chart the changes in architecture, retail and transport. Throughout the years we see the ever present hustle and bustle of people, including fascinating pictures of crowds gathered to enjoy the pomp and pageantry of the Royal Visit in 1903.

Browse the The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage exhibition.