Edinburgh’s Queen Street is a broad, open thoroughfare with imposing buildings on one side and gardens on the other, giving a sense of space in the heart of the city.
Now a busy east-west traffic route after cars were removed from Princes Street, it has a long and distinguished history. It was named in honour of Queen Charlotte of Mecklenberg, consort of George IIIi, and is recognised as the longest parade of 18th century architecture in Edinburgh.
It used to be home to the Mary Erskine School and the Edinburgh base of the BBC and is still graced by the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and an array of prestigious organisations like the Royal College of Physicians.
This selection of pictures from our archives includes major renovations of some of these buildings, as well as protests outside the BBC and reminders of other things that have happened in the historic street.
17. BBC renovation
Pat Chalmers, controller of BBC Scotland, checks on the progress of a massive renovation scheme at its Queen Street premises in September 1988. Photo: Denis Straughan
18. Campbell Brothers butcher shop
A butcher wraps a ham at the counter of the Edinburgh butchers Campbell Brothers in Queen Street, June 1974. Photo: Ian Brand
19. Stockbrokers Wood Mackenzie
Kintore House in Queen Street, the offices of Edinburgh stockbrokers Wood Mackenzie in November 1985. Photo: Denis Straughan, Jack Crombie
20. Computer room
The computer room of Edinburgh stockbrokers Wood Mackenzie in Kintore House, Queen Street, November 1985. Photo: Denis Straughan Jack Crombie