The bustling hub of Princes Street, named after King George III’s sons, Prince George and Prince Frederick, is a captivating place with a rich history. This iconic street in Edinburgh’s New Town, planned and built around 1770, sits on the edge of a medieval countryside road called Lang Dykes. Princes Street is lined with impressive Victorian and Georgian architecture on its north side. Although originally conceived as a residential area, it is now a popular shopping destination where you can find high-street stores, cafes, and hotels.
Look up, and try spotting the remnants of the original Georgian townhouses and tenements. The south side of Princes Street boasts mesmerizing views of Edinburgh Castle and surrounding gardens, known as Princes Street Gardens. These gardens are a significant green space and offer panoramas of the Old Town. You can also see the Mound – a striking piece of Edinburgh’s landscape, formed during the construction of the New Town. Take a walk through this beautiful park, where you can admire the Ross Bandstand, a floral clock, and the Scott Monument, dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, the author of the Waverley Novels. The monument is a striking Gothic structure that stands tall in the park. Enjoy the view! It is a wonderful example of the grandeur and architectural beauty that Princes Street has to offer.
Duke Street United Reformed Church
Hidden within the bustling streets of Leith, Duke Street United Reformed Church has witnessed over 150 years of Edinburgh’s history.