Library Item

4476

Portobello High Street

Shops and houses line the street at the corner of Rosefield Avenue and Portobello High Street, Edinburgh. Access to some of the houses appears to be by an external set on stairs and a covered walkway. To the far left stands Portobello Library. Several cars are parked at the side of the road.

1964

46 x 61.8 cm

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.