Edinburgh in the 80s: 16 photos showing what life was like in Edinburgh from 1980 to 1984
We’ve taken a look back in our archives to see what the good people of Edinburgh were getting up to in the 1980s, looking in particular at 1980-1984.
From enjoying the annual Festival Cavalcade through the city centre, to carol singing at the Mound, to a tragic incident in the Meadows and a chefs’ race along the promenade in Portobello, these photos provide a snapshot of life in the city back then.
1. Pancake race
Chefs taking part in a pancake race on Portobello promenade in February 1983. Photo: National World
2. Homelessness
Men in the canteen of the Castle Trades hotel, a hostel for homeless men in the Grassmarket Edinburgh, May 1980. Photo: Bill Stout
3. Royal wedding
Jonathan and Ruth Hannah dressed up as Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer for Gilmerton Gala Day ahead of the Royal Wedding in September 1981. Photo: George Smith
4. Festival Cavalcade
Crowds of people line Waverley Bridge to watch the Evening News Edinburgh Festival Cavalcade, August 1980. Photo: Jack Crombie