Portobello

Category

Library Item

Item no

4265

Title

Portobello

Description

Buildings line the edge of Portobello Beach, Edinburgh whilst people play in the water on the beach. People dressed in full clothing paddle in the water and a group of bathing huts on wheels is placed in the sea. A group of rowing boats for hire lies at the water's edge. Portobello Indoor Baths can be seen at the side of the Promenade.

Artist / maker

Valentine, James

Date

1903

Size

8.8 x 14 cm

Type

Photograph; Postcard

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

Portobello developed around a cottage built in the mid 18th century. The sailor who occupied the cottage had fought at Puerto Bello, a port in Panama captured by the British in 1739, and named his home after the battle. With its long beach the town became an increasingly popular leisure destination. It boasted a pier between 1871-1917 and an outdoor swimming pool between 1936-1979. Holidaymakers and day-trippers could also visit the Marine Gardens or the fun fair, both now demolished. The town has been part of Edinburgh since 1896.

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Related subjects

Places > Edinburgh areas > Portobello

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Sport and leisure > Activities > Paddling

Sport and leisure > Sports and recreation facilities > Bathing wagons

Sport and leisure > Sports and recreation facilities > Beaches

Transport > Infrastructure > Walkways

Transport > Water > Boats