Geograph - photograph every grid square

On Blackford Hill, next to King's Buildings (distance).

Unlikely as it may seem, there are two 'old observatories' in Edinburgh, the Royal Observatory on Blackford Hill and the City Observatory on Calton Hill.

Sited just outside the Blackford Pond entrance to Blackford Hill.

Blackford hill affords an impressive view of the city from which the Castle, Arthur's seat, and the Firth of Forth can be seen on the horizon.

Looking northeast from Blackford Hill, over Blackford and Newington.

The trig point is on the summit of Blackford Hill (164 metres). The prominent hill on the horizon is North Berwick Law.

Site of a dried-out curling pond. In the 19th century winter evening bonspiels were held here, illuminated by gas lamps.

A weather station is located on this elevated platform at Blackford Hill.

The 'Wee Braids golf course', unused for a while, appears now to be the HQ of a group of caravans and people providing tree and garden services, with their associated equipment. Presumably unauthorised, so I wonder how long they... (more)

A good view of the leafy suburbs and castle from the top of the hill where Midmar Drive meets Hermitage Drive on the W side of Blackford Hill. The right turn lane gives access to a car park convenient for paths on the hill and in the... (more)

The Royal Observatory of Edinburgh was built on Blackford Hill at the end of the 19th century.