Edinburgh’s old port of Leith is famous for more than the Proclaimers’ hit song that became an anthem for local football club Hibernian. The waterfront hub looking over the Firth of Forth has seen its share of history – from royal visits to sieges, naval battles to dockyard strikes. Its people are proud of its rich culture and heritage, and pioneering spirit. Indeed, the Leith motto of ‘persevere’ is perfect for the port.
Today it’s the home of the Royal Yacht Britannia, the picturesque Shore packed with pubs and restaurants, and even a hidden beach.
But way back when Leith was quite different. After the Second World War, the docks went into decline and the area built a reputation for drugs and prostitution – famously portrayed later in Danny Boyle’s big-screen adaptation of Irvine Welsh’s classic Leith-set novel Trainspotting.
Of course, that is not the whole picture of Leith during the 1950s and ‘60s. Have a look at these photos to see how Leith was more than half a century ago.
17. Beetles at the Docks
Volkswagens Beetles fill the east end of Leith Docks in Edinburgh in 1966 Photo: Alan Ledgerwood
18. Whisky warehouse
Scottish and Newcastle Breweries bottling and blending warehouse in Bath Street. Vats and casks of whisky in the warehouse (November 1963). Photo: Unknown
19. Children's Playground
Children running on the old Johnston Street in November 1962. The sign shows the street was a designated children's playground with vehicles banned after 4pm. Photo: Unknown