It’s Edinburgh’s most historic street, but the Royal Mile has nevertheless seen some changes over the years.
Here’s a look back to what it was like in the 1970s – a gaping, vacant plot where a well-established hotel now stands; some familiar buildings looking a little different back then; some properties being demolished and others redeveloped.
And of course the Royal Mile is a place for parades – and the Seventies seem to have had quite a few, with state visits from King Carl Gustav of Sweden and Queen Juliana of the Netherlands, as well as Queen Elizabeth II’s silver jubilee.
But these pictures also include more everyday scenes which may stir some memories. Scroll through them to get a glimpse of Edinburgh five decades ago.
1. Skidding in the snow
A Lothian Region Transport bus slips on the snow and gets stuck across the High Street Royal Mile Edinburgh, during the winter of 1979. Photo: Joe Steele
2. Wee Windaes restaurant
Looking on to the Wee Windaes restauarant and bar in the High Street, Edinbyurgh, in October 1970. Also in picture are The Neep and the old Post Office. Photo: Denis Straughan
3. The Mercat Cross
The High Street around Edinburgh's Mercat Cross, with the City Chambers in the background, in April 1971. Photo: Denis Straughan
4. Charity stagecoach drive
A stagecoach and four horses sets off from a bus stop in the Royal Mile Edinburgh on its way to Holyrood Park as part of a charity drive in June 1971. Photo: Ian Brand