Queen Mary’s Bath House
Scotland never fails to amaze me with its many historical treasures tucked or hidden away in the most unexpected of places. In Edinburgh, Queen Mary’s Bath House is one of these buildings which has survived the almost inevitable destruction of the surrounding area that comes from modernisation. If you ever make it down to the Scottish Parliament then take a left off Holyrood Palace into what is a modern, busy road and housing estate and just on the right next to the railings is the Bath House.
The structure dates from the last quarter of the sixteenth century. It almost looks forgotten about, passed over by time, and to my mind looks out of place while still appearing to stand proud as it belongs exactly where it is. It’s an odd thing to see and experience and of all the sites I’ve visited this is a particular favourite of mine; partly due to how it looks and partly due to the location. If you search online there is an aerial photograph which gives a great indication of where and how it is situated. Two thirds of it are inside the garden, with the other third sticking out into what is now a pavement. There is a blue plaque on the railings which has a short description and finishes with the observation that whether it ever contained a bath is unknown. Apparently it was attached to a wall surrounding the King’s privy garden and is associated with Mary Queen of Scots. If I had the space and it was possible, it’s the sort of thing I would love at the bottom of my garden. A two storey structure, at present you cannot go inside. There is a window you can stand on tip-toe and peer in, but it is dark and little to see.
I managed to take several photographs of the building which is not so easy during the middle of the day as during the time I was there, there was a steady stream of tourists making their way along to visit it. Always good to see these historical buildings attracting attention. It’s free to visit, so if you are in Edinburgh it’s well worth going along for a look.
The Fiction Factory 