Back in 1981, there was plenty of change in the city of Edinburgh as the nation settled into an economically uncertain new decade.
A number of city institutions – among them the RW Forsyth department store on Princes Street, the Ritz Cinema on Rodney Street and jewellers Abbott of Greyfriars, sadly closed their doors. But it wasn’t all doom and gloom, as our photos show.
Take a look through our picture gallery to see 18 snapshots of Edinburgh in 1981.
Take a look through our picture gallery to see 18 snapshots of Edinburgh in 1981.
5. Princes Street shops close down 1981
Shops in Princes Street Edinburgh were closing down regularly in 1981, due to a combination of high rates and poor trade. This branch of the Royal Bank of Scotland was closed down. Photo: Stan Warburton
6. Peartree in 1981
Rubbish and builders' debris at the back of Potterrow near the Peartree Inn in Edinburgh, November 1981. Photo: George Smith
7. Princess Diana wedding dress 1981
Two days after the Royal Wedding, copies of Princess Diana's wedding dress were on sale at Jenners department store in Edinburgh. Picture of model Karen Stead in Princes Street taken 31st July 1981. Photo: Bill Stout
8. Princess Grace of Monaco in Edinburgh 1981
Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco (formerly film star Grace Kelly) arrive at Edinburgh airport in September 1981. Photo: Alan Ledgerwood