Edinburgh shops: 10 iconic stores that closed their doors for good this century
Gone but not forgotten
By Kevin Quinn
Published 4th Jan 2023, 04:45 BST
Updated 4th Jan 2023, 11:38 BST
With Edinburgh’s city centre seeing so many changes since the turn of the century, we take a look at some of the most loved shops in the Capital that have shut their doors for good since 2000.
Some of these shops were frequented by locals for generations and became landmarks in the Capital, including Frasers at the West End and the Virgin Megastore on Princes Street that became a real hub for local music fans with some top pop and rock acts appearing their to sign autographs or play a live set.
BHS on Princes Street closed in 2016. This department store had something for everyone and was a real mum's favourite. Pictured is the Rose Street entrance to the store and its popular restaurant. Photo: BILL HENRY
The iconic John Menzies Princes Street branch, which opened in 1973, actually closed on February 7 1998, so just before the turn of the century. However, this shop is much missed by locals and will be remembered forever for the opening scene of Trainspotting, when lead characters Renton (Ewan McGregor) and Spud (Ewen Bremner) are chased through the city centre after stealing from John Menzies. Photo: ALAN LEDGERWOOD
Virgin Megastore in Princes Street was a popular shop with the city's music fans, with some chart stars even visiting the store to meet fans and perform. Situated just a few doors along from its main rival, HMV, Richard Branson's Virgin Megastore thrived in an era when consumers still purchased physical music and film in person and in large quantities. The multi-level store closed for good in the late 2000s. Photo: Paul Chappells
Closing for good during the pandemic, the Princes Street department store saw proposals accepted in 2021 to turn the huge unit into a new luxury hotel in the city centre.
Photo by Lisa Ferguson. Photo: Lisa Ferguson