Portobello Beach

Category

Library Item

Item no

12574

Title

Portobello Beach

Description

An aerial view of the coastline at Portobello, Edinburgh. The sea and the beach run in a straight line against the houses and businesses of the promenade. The tall white tower block of Coillesdene House can be seen in the foreground and the tall chimney of the power station at the far end of the beach.

Artist / maker

Unknown

Date

1973

Size

25.9 x 20.2 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

Landscape > Land > Coastlines

Manufacturing Industry > Manufacturing facilities > Power stations

Places > Edinburgh areas > Portobello

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh