South Bridge, Edinburgh

The foundation stone was laid on 1 August 1785 by George Gordon, Lord Haddo in his capacity as Grand Master Mason of Scotland.

The incomplete bridge was opened to foot traffic on 19 November 1786 using planks of wood resting on the completed arches.

The only older element incorporated into the South Bridge streetscape was Adam Square, which occupied the extreme south-west section and was built around 1770.

The historic structure contains one interior of great significance: Goldsmiths Hall, a relatively intact room linked to the old trade guilds.

This attic level space is wholly unseen from the exterior and is also now only accessed via a characterless corridor entered from Blair Street.