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© Celsius Plumbing and Heating

Edinburgh

Plumbing Tours of Edinburgh

Discover the hidden history of Edinburgh through the lens of its plumbing systems.

Our Plumbing Tours of Edinburgh provide a unique and engaging way to explore the city’s rich heritage, showcasing how innovations in plumbing have shaped its development from the Old Town to the New Town and into the present day.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, apprentices, and anyone curious about the unseen infrastructure that supports the vibrant metropolis of Edinburgh.

Tour Highlights:
  • Nor Loch (Now Princes Street Gardens) – Learn about the history of Nor Loch, once a defensive water body and sewage dump, now a beautiful garden area.
  • Old Pumping Station on the High Street – Visit the remnants of Edinburgh’s old water supply system, a testament to early efforts to provide clean water to the city.
  • St. Giles’ Cathedral – Observe the unique drainage systems incorporated into the architecture of this historic building.
  • Mary King’s Close – Explore the underground streets and understand the challenges of sanitation in the 17th century.
  • The Wellhouse Tower – Discover the story of Edinburgh’s old wells and their crucial role in the city’s water supply before modern plumbing.
  • Lead Roofing of Edinburgh Castle – Gain insights into the use of lead in historical plumbing and roofing, with a focus on its durability and applications.
  • The High Street Wellhead – Discover this historical wellhead that was once a primary source of water for the citizens of Edinburgh.
  • West Bow Wellhead – Visit another important wellhead that served the residents of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
  • Castlehill Reservoir and Edinburgh’s Water Supply – Learn about the history of this reservoir and its crucial role in providing water to Edinburgh.
  • Cast Iron Pipes in Edinburgh – Marvel at the Victorian-era cast iron pipes that revolutionized the city’s water distribution system.
  • The Royal Mile’s Plumbing – Walk along the Royal Mile and learn about the evolution of plumbing in Edinburgh’s old town, including hidden cisterns and early sewage systems. Visit Huntly House to see 18th Century wooden water pipes.
  • The New Town’s Georgian Plumbing – Explore the advanced plumbing techniques used in the 18th-century New Town, highlighting the contrast with the Old Town’s medieval systems.
  • St. Margaret’s Well – Visit this historic well, which is an excellent example of medieval water supply and religious significance, now relocated to Holyrood Park.

    • Join us on this fascinating journey to uncover the plumbing innovations that have quietly but significantly contributed to Edinburgh’s evolution. Our expert guides will provide deep insights and captivating stories, making this tour both educational and enjoyable.

    From £0 per adult

    Departure days

    • Monday
    • Tuesday
    • Wednesday
    • Thursday
    • Friday
    • Saturday
    • Sunday

    April — September

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    Contact details

    Celsius Plumbing and Heating

    2D
    West Telferton
    Telferton Industrial Estate
    Edinburgh
    City of Edinburgh
    EH7 6UL
    View tour provider details

    Key facilities

    • Disabled Parking

    Tour information

    Length

    2Hours

    Transport

    • Walking

    Type

    • Small Group (1-16)

    Languages

    • English

    Tour prices

    From

    Book now

    Prices are subject to change depending on season

    Celsius Plumbing and Heating

    Tour company information

    Celsius Plumbing and Heating

    Our Plumbing Tours of Edinburgh provide a unique and engaging way to explore the city’s rich heritage, showcasing how innovations in plumbing have shaped its development from the Old Town to the New Town and into the present day. Ideal for history enthusiasts, apprentices, and anyone curious about the unseen infrastructure that supports the vibrant metropolis of Edinburgh.

    Visit Celsius Plumbing and Heating

    Opening times

    Monday - Saturday 8am - 8pm

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