Governor's House

Governor's House is a castellated stone structure with towers positioned on the southern edge of Calton Hill, overlooking Waverley Station and Holyrood Park below. The building sits on elevated ground and displays Gothic and neoclassical details throughout its exterior design.

Built between 1815 and 1817, this structure was originally part of Calton Jail, which once served as Scotland's largest prison facility. It is the sole surviving building from that penal institution and remained standing while the rest of the complex was demolished.

The building displays Gothic Revival details that were fashionable in early 19th-century Edinburgh and remain visible in its stonework and towers. These design choices reflect architectural tastes of the era when public buildings needed to project authority and permanence.

The building occupies a prominent position on Calton Hill and can be seen from several vantage points around the city. You can view it from nearby streets or from the walking paths that cross the hilltop area.

Originally this served as the residence of the prison governor rather than a cell block or administrative center. This role explains both its name and why it was built with higher architectural standards than other parts of the jail complex.

Location: City of Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

GPS coordinates: 55.95320,-3.18522

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:04