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James Braid – The first few years

James Braid – The first few years

This is part of a series of articles on the golf life of five times British Open Champion James Braid. Braid is a golf legend -only Harry Vardon has won more British Open titles. James Braid was born in Earlsferry near St Andrews on February 6, 1870. His father was...

Best Outlander Film Locations in Edinburgh

Best Outlander Film Locations in Edinburgh

Fans will know that many of the best Outander film locations in Edinburgh , and the best scenes, were captured in and around our city. Scotland plays such a starring role in this popular TV series which spans history, stunning fim locations, genealogy and Scottish...

The Top Five Things to Do in Edinburgh

The Top Five Things to Do in Edinburgh

There are so many great things to do in Edinburgh that providing you with my top five recommendations has taken much thought. Royalty, world class views and amazing history all feature. Royal Yacht Britannia Where: Ocean Drive, Edinburgh EH6 6JJ When: January to March...

Swanston Village Edinburgh- A Hidden Gem

Swanston Village Edinburgh- A Hidden Gem

Swanston Village lies on the foothills of the Pentlands on the Southern outskirts of Edinburgh. It is very historic and picturesque and has changed little over time. It is perhaps most famous for writer and former resident Robert Louis Stevenson.  To read the full...

South Leith Parish Church Edinburgh

South Leith Parish Church Edinburgh

South Leith Parish church Edinburgh is a true ecclesiastical gem. It's origins can be traced back hundreds of years to the Order of the Knights Templar.  It has survived a seige and bombarment by cannonballs. Inside the church you will find the coat of Arms for Mary...

Murders on the Royal Mile Part One

Murders on the Royal Mile Part One

There have been many murders on the Royal Mile over the centuries. Edinburgh Central Library has a bountiful resources from which you can discover a vast aray of true stories about such events. INTRODUCTION TO LORD PRESIDENT SIR GEORGE LOCKHART Knighted by King...

George Meikle Kemp – The Scott Monument

George Meikle Kemp – The Scott Monument

George Meikle Kemp and the The Scott Monument in Princes Street Gardens. He was the architect of it. Proof indeed that  genius never dies. In his early life George assisted his father tending sheep. He also constructed mill-wheels. Subsequently he became an apprentice...

South Bridge Vaults Edinburgh

South Bridge Vaults Edinburgh

BACKGROUND TO THE SOUTH BRIDGE VAULTS I'll begin with some background to the South Bridge Vaults of Edinburgh. The Cowgate barrier to the south of the Old Town ridge in Edinburgh prevented development of the southern suburbs. In 1785 the South Bridge Act authorised...

Deacon Brodie – Edinburgh Criminal Extraordinaire!

Deacon Brodie – Edinburgh Criminal Extraordinaire!

Deacon Brodie - Edinburgh Criminal Extraordinaire! INTRODUCTION One of the most remarkable criminals ever confined in the Old Tolbooth of Edinburgh was Deacon William Brodie. Being a Deacon meant he was officially the most respected joiner in Edinburgh. He was also a...