Portobello Pier

Category

Library Item

Item no

28528

Title

Portobello Pier

Artist / maker

Unknown

Date

1900

Size

20.4 x 25.3 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.

Portobello Pier was designed by Thomas Bouch, who designed several of Scotland's railway routes, including the Tay Rail Bridge. The pier opened on 23 May 1871 and was demolished in 1917.

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Related subjects

Landscape > Land > Beaches

People > Adults > Crowds

People > Adults > Men

People > Adults > Women

People > Children > Children playing

Places > Edinburgh areas > Portobello

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Transport > Infrastructure > Piers and wharves