| Edinburgh Trams | |
|---|---|
| Began operation | 31 May 2014 |
| Operator(s) | Edinburgh Trams Ltd. |
| Number of vehicles | 27 Urbos 3 |
| Train length | 42.8 m (140 ft 5 in) |
When did Edinburgh first have trams?
1871
Trams operated in Edinburgh from 1871 to 1956, and resumed in 2014. The first systems were horse-drawn, while cable-haulage appeared in the city in 1888. Electric trams first ran on systems in neighbouring Musselburgh (1904) and Leith (1905), meeting the Edinburgh cable-trams at Joppa and Pilrig respectively.
When did the original trams stop in Edinburgh?
16 November 1956
The last Edinburgh tram ran on 16 November 1956.
Why did Edinburgh get rid of trams?
Trams used to be a popular method of transport in Edinburgh. They were predominantly used before the introduction of buses, which quickly took over the city after the second world war. While trams served their purpose, buses were seen as cost efficient after the war.
When did trams start?
1807
The world’s first passenger tram was the Swansea and Mumbles Railway, in Wales, UK. The Mumbles Railway Act was passed by the British Parliament in 1804, and this first horse-drawn passenger tramway started operating in 1807.
What is the oldest thing in Edinburgh?
St Margaret’s Chapel, in Edinburgh Castle, is the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, Scotland. An example of Romanesque architecture, it is a category A listed building. It was constructed in the 12th century, but fell into disuse after the Reformation.
How long did Edinburgh Trams take?
Journey times are approximately 30 to 35 minutes from the city centre to the airport. The first morning services commence at the Gyle Centre and the last evening services terminate at Edinburgh Airport from York Place and Edinburgh Gateway on city-bound services after 22:48 from the Airport.
Did Edinburgh ever have an underground?
Edinburgh’s lost ‘Innocent Railway’ was the first ever underground line built in Scotland. The St Leonards Tunnel, built between 1827 and 1830, is used today by locals as a thoroughfare for runners and cyclists, but its historic beginnings are sometimes forgotten.
Are Edinburgh trams free for over 60s?
60 and over
The NEC card entitles you to free bus travel across Scotland, and also on trams if your card was issued by the City of Edinburgh Council.
Who paid for Edinburgh trams?
In a compromise, the government agreed to finance the line from the airport to Newhaven, with the council responsible for the rest. Providing £375 million in funding for the 2003 £498 million estimate, with the outstanding £45 million to be provided by the council.
Are trams free in Edinburgh?
All tram stops in Edinburgh have ticket machines in the platform, where you can buy single, return or day tickets. You should pay with the exact fare if possible, as the machines don’t give back change, and they accept 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2 coins.
Why are there no trams in London?
An extensive tram network covered large parts of London for several decades during the first half of the twentieth century. By the 1950s, however, trams were seen as old fashioned and were gradually phased out to create more room for buses and cars.
Why is it called the Innocent Railway Edinburgh?
From its early days the Edinburgh and Dalkeith Railway was commonly referred to as the Innocent Railway due to it being horse drawn. In an age when the early steam engines had been viewed with mistrust for being too dangerous and too fast, this horse drawn version was thought a safer alternative.
Why did buses replace trams?
Trams were removed from the 30s onwards partly because they impeded car owners wanting to drive freely in cities. It was thought that by getting rid of trams, and replacing them with diesel buses, everyone could get around faster.
Why use trams instead of buses?
Passengers prefer trams over motor buses, and trams are usually quieter than motor buses. Being electric powered (there are a very few diesel trams), trams emit no exhaust fumes. Lastly, and no less importantly, trams can be coupled together to form two, three, or four-car trains to handle heavy passenger demand.
Why is a tram called a tram?
If you’ve been on a streetcar in San Francisco or a trolley in Philadelphia, you’ve ridden a tram. The word tram was originally a Scottish term for the wagons that are used in coal mines, stemming from a Middle Flemish word meaning “rung or handle of a barrow.”
What food is Edinburgh famous for?
Haggis is the national dish of Scotland for good reason. You’ll find this spicy meat pudding on the menu everywhere in Edinburgh, and you can find vegetarian versions too. There are even whole restaurants that specialise in the dish!
What is the oldest pub in Edinburgh?
The White Heart is situated on Edinburgh’s Grassmarket and said to be the oldest pub in Edinburgh. Not only the oldest, but the most haunted, there have been many sightings from tourists as well as staff who certainly have a few creepy stories to share!
What was Edinburgh old name?
The site of the city of Edinburgh was first named as “Castle Rock”. The name “Edinburgh” is rumoured to originate from the old English of “Edwin’s fort”, referring to the 7th century King Edwin of Northumbria (and “burgh” means “fortress” or “walled collection of buildings”).
How much did it cost to build Edinburgh trams?
By the time the first trams started running on the 8.7mile (14km) route in May 2014, the total cost of the project had reached £776m.
When was the last hanging in Edinburgh?
Although the Grassmarket’s infamy as the site of public execution stretches back over 300 years, the final hanging in Edinburgh of a convicted criminal is, perhaps surprisingly, within living memory: 23rd June 1954.