Edinburgh retro: 16 incredible old photos of The Meadows show how much Edinburgh beauty spot has changed

By Gary Flockhart

Lifestyle Editor

Published 10th Mar 2024, 16:13 BST

Here, we take a nostalgic look at The Meadows in Edinburgh, which has seen plenty of action down the years

The Meadows is a beauty spot in the heart of Edinburgh where locals just love to gather, especially when the sun is shining on Scotland’s capital city

Today, the iconic park in Edinburgh is popular for picnics, playing sports and people watching, but it’s seen plenty of action down the years, from marches, protests, royal visits, festivals and much more.

Have a scroll through out our photo gallery to see just how much The Meadows has changed down the decades.

Royal Company of Archers walk down Jawbone Walk to take part in a shot in the East Meadows

1. Meadows

Royal Company of Archers walk down Jawbone Walk to take part in a shot in the East Meadows Photo: TSPL

Trees in Middle Meadow Walk were scheduled to be cut down due to Dutch Elm Disease. Year: 1978.

2. Trees to be felled

Trees in Middle Meadow Walk were scheduled to be cut down due to Dutch Elm Disease. Year: 1978. Photo: Albert Jordan

Here you can see the signs and painted white lines on Middle Meadow Walk to segregate pedestrians and cyclists. Year: 1983

3. Signs for walkers

Here you can see the signs and painted white lines on Middle Meadow Walk to segregate pedestrians and cyclists. Year: 1983 Photo: Hamish Campbell

Runners can be seen here taking on the Meadows Marathon - some in regular running gear and others in fancy dress. Year: 2009.

4. Meadows marathon

Runners can be seen here taking on the Meadows Marathon - some in regular running gear and others in fancy dress. Year: 2009. Photo: Greg Macvean

The Meadows Edinburgh Scotland

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.