Built in the late 18th century during the reign of King George III, Princes Street was part of the new section of Edinburgh and was named for the King's sons after its original name – St Giles Street – was rejected.
Today, it is the main shopping street in the Capital.
Take a look through our photo gallery to see just how much the Capital's most famous street has changed down the decades.
Take a look through our photo gallery to see just how much the Capital's most famous street has changed down the decades.
. Woolworths
The Woolworths on Princes Street survived until 1984, when the company’s new owners Paternoster (later Kingfisher) decided to close a number of the larger stores around the UK. Photo: Photo: TSPL
. Horses and carts
In this old picture of Princes Street, there's no trams, buses or cars - instead you can see horses and carts. Photo: Photo: TSPL
. Princes Street Station interior
Originally built in the 1870s, and later greatly expanded and redeveloped, Princes Street Station was one of Scotland’s largest and most magnificent railway terminals. Photo: Photo: TSPL
5. Jacey News Theatre
Jacey was ocated at 131 Princes Street (just one door up from present-day HMV). The cinema was known for its eclectic mix of independent art house cinema, continental movies as well as the odd X-rated flick. Photo: Photo: TSPL
6. Aerial of Princes Street Station and central Edinburgh.
A stunning picture of Princes Street Station and central Edinburgh. Photo: Photo: TSPL
7. North side of Princes Street
The north side of Princes Street between Hanover Street and Frederick Street, opposite the RSA. Picture taken around 1860. Photo: TSPL
8. Burger King
Burger King at the East End of Princes Street on the former site of Woolworths in 1998. Photo: Photo: TSPL