Oddfellows

When you walk past this bar on Forrest Road you will probably not notice the interesting facade of the building, let alone know about the history of this place. Built in 1873, Oddfellows Hall was the gathering point for members of the Oddfellows Order. I understand that these were guilds with members from an odd assortment of trades (rather than all from the same trade), hence the term 'odd fellows'. Oddfellows Hall was a Lodge where they would congregate, with lecture rooms, meeting rooms and domitories.

Many Edinburgh people will remember "Bar Oz", previously located in this building, which was accessed through a narrow passage and laid out over two floors. In 2006, £1.05 million was spent on redesiging and opening up the space, and many of the original features can now be seen again.

Stone - Crown Office

I think this blog is due another 'stone' picture, so here's a nice one! This decorative stonework can be found on columns on either side of the entrance to the Crown Office on Chambers Street, the body responsible for prosecution of crime in Scotland.

Colourful shops

Some long-established, colourful shops on Greyfriar's Place, opposite the Museum of Scotland.

George IV Bridge

After serving as starting and finishing point for the Great Edinburgh Run on Sunday, this is George IV Bridge returned to normal. It's really more a high-level street than a bridge, although it does bridge the Cowgate (just behind the bus).

May the 4th... Edinburgh Run part 2

What can I say....? Except that last year, the Great Edinburgh Run was held on May 4th, aka Star Wars Day, and so this year I suspect that Princess Leia and this Stormtrooper wanted to recycle their outfits... May the 4th be with you today!

Great Edinburgh Run part 1

Today saw some 10,000 runners take part in the Great Edinburgh Run 2009! This 10k road run followed a route across the Royal Mile, past Holyrood Palace and along the Meadows to a finish on George IV Bridge. I was there merely in a supporting role and to take pictures of various friends who are much more sporty than me. This picture was taken about half way along the route, from South Bridge looking down on the Cowgate. As you can see the weather was gorgeous.

Well done to all of you!!

Theme Day: Shadows

At low tide, Newhaven Harbour is almost completely dry, with the ropes between boats and pier hanging rather limply across the mud. A great contribution from Mr Dido who, for recession reasons, suddenly has a lot of time on his hands...

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants