Why is Portobello Cemetery considered ‘new’ compared to Edinburgh’s ancient graveyards? Portobello Cemetery, established in 1877, is a relatively modern addition to Edinburgh’s landscape of historic burial grounds. Opened in the Victorian era, it might not seem “new” at first glance. However, compared to the city’s famous kirkyards and burial spaces dating back centuries, Portobello Cemetery is a recent addition. The cemetery, located in the suburb of Joppa, was originally designed by architect Robert Paterson with a simple looped path. As Edinburgh’s population grew, so did Portobello Cemetery. It was extended twice, now encompassing 8 acres. New burials continue to this day. The oldest part features grand Victorian monuments and captivating epitaphs. The newer sections contain war graves and Edinburgh’s Muslim cemetery. Portobello Cemetery holds the stories of notable figures and ordinary individuals. You’ll find memorials to actor Ian Charleson (Chariots of Fire), Victoria Cross recipient LTC William Robertson, and theatre impresario Sir Horace Edward Moss. The cemetery is a poignant reminder of the passage of time, where grand monuments stand alongside simple markers. Each stone whispers a story, a life lived, a love lost, a sacrifice made. Take a moment to reflect on the lives commemorated here, the history they represent, and the legacy they leave behind.
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.