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Edinburgh Then and Now

Explore 5 historic and modern photo comparisons from Edinburgh. Drag the interactive sliders to see how these places have changed over time.

Step back in time and explore the striking contrasts at some of Edinburgh’s most iconic sites. From the historic grandeur of Edinburgh Castle to the enduring charm of John Knox House on the Royal Mile, these then-and-now views reveal how familiar landmarks have changed through the years. Discover the transformation of Newhailes, a stately home near Edinburgh, alongside the enduring presence of North Bridge, connecting past and present in the heart of the city.

  • North Bridge, Edinburgh 1861 – 2025

    The North Bridge area of Edinburgh has long been a significant hub, marked by the presence of the Edinburgh General Post Office, which was completed in the mid-19th century. Its architectural style, reflecting the Italian High Renaissance, symbolized the era’s burgeoning advancements in communication and infrastructure, particularly in relation to the Victorian postal network.

    The impressive structure once dominated the intersection of Waterloo Place and North Bridge, serving as a focal point for both local and national correspondence. Today, while the original post office may no longer stand, the area continues to be a vital part of Edinburgh’s urban landscape, showcasing the evolution of the city’s architecture and public services through the years.

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  • Newhailes near Edinburgh 1881 – 2025



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  • John Knox House Royal Mile Edinburgh 1900s – 2025



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  • Queen Mary’s Bathhouse Edinburgh 1860 – 2024



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  • Edinburgh Castle 1886 – 2024



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