Refurbished Portobello Baths, Interior

Category

Library Item

Item no

4313

Title

Refurbished Portobello Baths, interior

Description

The light floods in to the interior of Portobello Baths, Edinburgh. Windows can be seen in the roof, which is supported by wooden beams. A gallery with metal balustrades runs down either side of the pool and is supported by ornately topped pillars. The pool itself is tiled with blue tiles and a large clock hangs over a doorway on the far wall.

Artist / maker

MacLean, Kevin

Date

1998

Size

20.2 x 25.2 cm

Type

Photograph

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

Architecture > Architectural features > Balustrades

Architecture > Architectural features > Columns

Places > Edinburgh areas > Portobello

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Sport and leisure > Sports and recreation facilities > Swimming pools

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