These 12 photos prove Edinburgh has the most beautiful schools in the world
Only in Auld Reekie can a school have a medieval castle as their backdrop and legitimately argue they occupy the more impressive building.
As one of the leading torch bearers of the European Enlightenment, Edinburgh has long been the dux of the class when it comes to education, and the city’s many beautiful schools are a reflection of this privileged status.
Boasting the likes of Fettes and George Heriot’s, Merchiston Castle and Stewart’s Melville, the sheer number of beautiful school buildings in Edinburgh is quite staggering. Is there another city in the world that can even come close? We don’t think so.
We take a look at a dozen examples that prove Edinburgh has the finest-looking schools in the world.
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We take a look at a dozen examples that prove Edinburgh has the finest-looking schools in the world.
5. South Morningside Primary School
Established in 1892, South Morningside Primary is similar in style to its nearby neighbour at Bruntsfield. Lush greenery surrounds the primary school, which is aesthetically pleasing both inside and out.
Photo: GARETH EASTON
6. George Watson's College
First established in 1741 as a hospital school, George Watson's relocated to Colinton Road in the affluent Merchiston area of the city in 1932. Its handsome edifice and extensive grounds mark it out as one of the best schools in the land.
Photo: Lisa Ferguson
7. George Heriot's School
How many schools in the world boast a castle as their backdrop and can legitimately claim to occupy just as fine a building? The school, which operates as both a primary and secondary school, was established in 1628 as George Heriot's Hospital and is notable for its exquisite renaissance architecture.
Photo: Greg Macvean
8. Donaldson's school for the Deaf (former)
The former Donaldson's school for the Deaf has recently been converted into luxury accommodation, but it stands today as a prime example of school architecture in Edinburgh. It was so admired, in fact, that Queen Victoria once commented that she would prefer to live there than at Holyrood.
Photo: Rob McDougall