EDINBURGH locals have taken it upon themselves to share some of their favourite spots in the city that often go overlooked.
These include remnants of Auld Reekie’s history, such as old signs, doorbells, and doorknockers.
Others shared street art, hidden pathways, and aspects of Edinburgh’s incredible architecture that others often pass by.
Sharing their secrets online, Scots users were prompted by a request for the most “mundane” things that seem to nonetheless catch their attention.
The original post was made by Secret Edinburgh, a social media account dedicated to showcasing Edinburgh’s “abandoned buildings, forgotten places, independent retail, underappreciated everyday treasures, hidden gems and local knowledge”.
In November, they said: “Okay Edinburgh peeps, I want to know about your favourite mundane, hidden in plain sight things.
“You know the kind of thing: signs, pipes, drain covers, stonework, doorknockers, street art, shop fronts, doorways, tenement tiles, ornaments, gates etc. that you like but suspect no-one else even notices.”
They also added a picture of some tilework on the ground, bearing the words “J.Smith & Sons”, which may have been a millstone manufacturer in the 19th century.
Two months later, locals are still adding to the thread which now has 135 likes and 48 comments.
One user replied earlier this week, sharing pictures of: “The War Department stones marking the ‘border’ of the castle.
“They’re in Princes Gardens, King Stables Road, The Grass Market.”
Another shared an adorable picture yesterday, of two stone pigeons on a windowsill in Stockbridge, saying: “Not just any windowsill, but a Stockbridge one (These are not real birds, just in case you wondered).”
A third noticed “The original exposed ironwork beside the windows inside Loudons.
“As you look out the window, to all the new builds now on Fountainbridge, it’s rather lovely to see this relic from the past still going strong and holding up this beautiful building.”
The history of Edinburgh is preserved in many old signs, still in their original places.
One user pointed out a sign that reads “Shut the gate, the penalty is forty shillings for leaving this gate unlocked” which is “round Cowgate, somewhere near the caves I think”.
Secret Edinburgh confirmed, saying: “You’re right, Niddry Street South.
“Looks like an old railway sign.”
Another sign was also shared, that directs people “To shelter No.1” with an arrow pointing to the left.
The user who shared the wartime relic said it can be found “inside the door of the accessible toilet, Usher Hall ground floor”.
More modern sightings have also been featured, as one user shared today: “I love the mural at the opening/entrance to the Student Cooperative accommodation on the edge of the Meadows.
“Especially the little kitty cat at the bottom. I think I only spotted that maybe the tenth time I passed.”
