The popularity of the motor car in post-war Britain made the trams seem outdated and clunky, so they were removed - now, over 50 years later, they’ve returned to the streets of Edinburgh. Here’s a look back at the first generation of Edinburgh trams.
1. All sorts of transport
This view of Waterloo Place from Register House at the East End of Princes Street showcases all the ways the people of Edinburgh used to get around - trams, buses, cars, bikes and horse drawn carriages. Year: 1943 | JPIMedia Photo: All sorts of transport
2. Breaking down
Even back then, the trams didn’t run smoothly - here you can see a tram that’s broken down on London Road and Leith Walk. Year: 1945 | JPIMedia Photo: Breaking down
3. Penguins and trams
Penguins from Edinburgh’s zoo in Corstorphine can be seen having a day out with a tram seen operating in the background. Year: 1952 | JPIMedia Photo: Penguins and trams
4. Climbing the Mound
While the trams today only go past the Mound, the original set of tracks saw trams go straight up it. Year: 1953 | JPIMedia Photo: Climbing the Mound