A listed building in Edinburgh is a building or structure that is considered to be of special architectural or historic interest. It has been formally recognised and protected by the Scottish government.
These buildings are listed on the statutory list of buildings of special architectural or historical interest, which is maintained by Historic Environment Scotland (HES), a public body responsible for the historic environment in Scotland. Visit their site to search for listed buildings HERE
There are three categories of listed buildings in Scotland, based on their level of importance:
- Category A: These are buildings of national or international importance, either because of their architectural or historic significance. They are considered to be the most important buildings in Scotland and are given the highest level of protection. In Edinburgh you’ll find plenty of residential Category A listed homes in the Georgian New Town.
- Category B: These are buildings of regional or more than local importance, either because of their architectural or historic significance. They are considered to be of high importance and are given a lower level of protection than Category A buildings. These can be found throughout Edinburgh.
- Category C: These are buildings of local importance, either because of their architectural or historic significance. They are considered to be of lesser importance than Category A or B buildings and are given the lowest level of protection.
Listing a building in Scotland means that any proposed alterations or development to the building will require permission from the local planning authority. HES will be consulted on any proposed changes to ensure that the building’s historic or architectural significance is not damaged or destroyed.
So What Can and Can’t be done to a Listed building?
Listed buildings in Scotland are legally protected. There are restrictions on what can be done to them to ensure that their historic and architectural significance is preserved. Here are some things that are generally prohibited without obtaining prior permission:
Altering or damaging the exterior of the building: This includes changing the appearance of the building by altering its features, such as windows, doors, roof, or walls, or by adding or removing any architectural elements.
Demolishing the building or part of it: A listed building or its parts cannot be demolished without prior permission.
Carrying out work that affects the character or appearance of the building: Any work that might change the character or appearance of the building, such as repainting or re-rendering, requires permission.
Adding extensions or other structures: Adding any extensions or other structures, such as sheds or garages, requires permission.
Installing satellite dishes or other external fixtures: Installing any external fixtures that could damage the building’s appearance or character requires permission.
Undertaking work that could damage the building: Any work that could potentially damage the building’s structure or features, such as drilling or excavating, requires permission.
It is important to note that even minor works to a listed building may require permission, and failing to obtain permission can result in fines or legal action.
Names of some well known Listed buildings in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has a wealth of historic buildings and areas, many of which are listed. Here are some examples of well-known listed buildings in Edinburgh:
Edinburgh Castle (Category A): A historic fortress situated on a rock that dominates the skyline of the city.
The Royal Mile (Category A): A historic street in the Old Town, lined with historic buildings, including St Giles’ Cathedral, the City Chambers, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
The Georgian House (Category A): An 18th-century townhouse, located in Charlotte Square, designed by Robert Adam.
The Scottish National Gallery (Category A): A neo-classical building, located on The Mound, which houses Scotland’s national collection of fine art.
The Usher Hall (Category B): A concert hall located on Lothian Road, built in 1914 and designed by Sir Frank Mears.
The Balmoral Hotel (Category A): A luxury hotel located on Princes Street, built in 1902 and designed by W. Hamilton Beattie.
The Scott Monument (Category A): A Victorian Gothic monument to the famous author Sir Walter Scott, located in Princes Street Gardens.
The Royal Observatory (Category A): An astronomical observatory located on Blackford Hill, founded in 1822.
These are just a few examples of the many listed buildings in Edinburgh, which showcase the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
Which Areas of Edinburgh have the most listed residential buildings?
Edinburgh has a large number of listed buildings, with many of them located in the historic areas of the city. In 1995 Edinburgh’s Ild and New Town areas were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here are some of the areas of Edinburgh that have the most listed buildings:
Old Town: The Old Town is the historic heart of Edinburgh and contains many of the city’s oldest buildings. It is home to the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and St Giles’ Cathedral, among many other historic landmarks.
New Town: The New Town is a Georgian era district located to the north of the Old Town. It was designed in the late 18th century and contains many listed buildings, including Charlotte Square, St Andrew Square, and the Royal Scottish Academy.
Stockbridge: Stockbridge is a residential area located to the north of the New Town. It is home to many listed buildings, including the Dean Gallery, St Bernard’s Well, and the Stockbridge Market.
Bruntsfield: Bruntsfield is a residential area located to the south of the city center. It has many listed buildings, including the Bruntsfield Links, the former Royal Edinburgh Hospital, and the Barclay Viewforth Church.
Marchmont: Marchmont is a residential area located to the south of the city center. It contains many listed buildings, including the St. Giles’ Cathedral Hall, Marchmont House, and Warrender Baths.
These areas of Edinburgh are known for their architectural and historic significance, and many of the listed buildings in these areas are well-preserved examples of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage. Home owners often consider it a privilege to own a listed building.
If you’re interested in specifically which buildings are listed and which category they belong to you can visit the HES website free and view by map each building – red being Category A, pink is Category B and blue dots are Category C.
For specific guidance on managing a listed building visit the Edinburgh Council Guidance section HERE
