John Livingstone'S Tomb

John Livingstone Tomb: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Edinburgh Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

John Livingstone’s Tomb in Edinburgh’s Bruntsfield area is a compelling relic of 17th-century Scotland, embodying the city’s response to plague, the prominence of apothecaries, and rich funerary traditions. This secluded garden monument not only commemorates Livingstone—an esteemed apothecary lost to the 1645 plague—but also serves as a window into the era’s religious beliefs, social hierarchy, and unique artistic expressions. Visitors to the tomb will discover evocative memento mori carvings, intricate stonework, and inscriptions that narrate a story of mortality, hope, and legacy.

This guide provides a detailed overview of John Livingstone’s Tomb: its historical context, architectural features, practical visitor information, and how it fits within the landscape of Edinburgh historical sites. For additional background and up-to-date visitor tips, refer to reputable sources such as Historic Environment Scotland, Edinburgh Expert, and VisitScotland.

Historical Background
Visiting the Tomb
Nearby Attractions and Heritage Trails
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conservation and Preservation
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

Historical Background

The Life and Status of John Livingstone

John Livingstone was a notable apothecary and Merchant Burgess in 17th-century Edinburgh. In 1636, he acquired the Greenhill estate, a location outside the city walls that would later become Bruntsfield and Morningside. His profession and marriage to Elizabeth Rigg placed him among the city’s respected elite (Canmore). Livingstone’s social stature is reflected both in the scale and artistry of his tomb.

The 1645 Plague and Its Impact

The 1645 plague was among the deadliest in Edinburgh’s history, killing nearly half the city’s population. Greenhill, then outside the city limits, was used for plague burials to minimize contagion. John Livingstone died at age 53 during this epidemic, and his family erected the tomb on their estate as both a protective measure and a statement of status (Historic Environment Scotland; Atlas Obscura).

Construction and Ownership of the Tomb

The tomb is a small, rectangular stone mausoleum constructed in 1645. Its original stonework, boundary placement, and heraldic elements have survived centuries of urban expansion. Ownership remained with the Livingstone family until the area’s transition into a residential suburb. Legal reviews in recent years have secured the tomb’s public access (Edinburgh Expert).

Inscriptions and Symbolism

The tomb features an arch inscribed with the initials “I L” and “E R” (for John Livingstone and Elizabeth Rigg) and the date 1645. The gravestone’s epitaph, written in archaic Scots, celebrates Livingstone’s piety and virtue:

“This Saint whos Corps lyes buried heir
Let all posterties admoir
For upright lif in Godly feir.
When judgements did this land surround
He with God was walking found
For which from midst of feirs he’s cround.
Heir to be interred. Both he
And friends by Providence agrie
No Age shall los his memorie.
His age 53 Died 1645”

Above appears the Latin motto, “Mors patet; Hora latet” (“Death is sure; the hour obscure”), a classic memento mori. The tomb’s carvings—skulls, crossbones, an hourglass, and a family crest—express themes of mortality, resurrection, and social identity (Edinburgh Expert; Canmore).

Visiting the Tomb

Location and Setting

Address: 1 Chamberlain Road, Bruntsfield, Edinburgh
The tomb sits within a secluded public garden, accessible from Chamberlain Road. Its tranquil setting provides a peaceful retreat amid city bustle, framed by private residences and greenery (edinburgh.org).

Visiting Hours and Admission

Hours: Open during daylight (dawn to dusk); no formal opening or closing times.
Admission: Free; no tickets or advance booking required.
Occasionally, the gate may be locked for maintenance or security. Check City of Edinburgh Council or local visitor centers for current status.

Accessibility and Travel Tips

Transport: The site is best reached on foot or by bus (nearest stops on Bruntsfield Place), as nearby parking is limited and mostly for residents.
Accessibility: The garden is at street level, but the entrance is narrow and paths may not be suitable for all mobility aids. Contact local tourist offices for accessibility details.
Best Times: Spring and summer offer the most pleasant visit, particularly in early morning or late afternoon for favorable lighting and fewer visitors.
Amenities: No on-site facilities; public toilets and refreshments are available in the Bruntsfield and Morningside neighborhoods.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, and a guidebook or mobile app for historical context.

Etiquette and Photography

Respect the tranquility and residential setting—keep noise low and avoid littering.
Photography is encouraged, but avoid flash and respect the privacy of nearby homes.
Large group visits are not recommended due to the garden’s size and residential context.

Nearby Attractions and Heritage Trails

Bruntsfield Links: Historic parkland adjacent to the tomb, known for its golf course and green spaces.
The Meadows: Expansive public park, especially popular in spring.
Holy Corner: Cluster of historic churches nearby.
Morningside & Bruntsfield: Vibrant neighborhoods with independent shops, cafes, and Victorian/Georgian architecture.
Heritage Trails: John Livingstone’s Tomb is often included in self-guided or organized heritage walks exploring the south side’s religious and civic history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are tickets required to visit John Livingstone’s Tomb?
A: No, the site is open to the public and free of charge.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Daylight hours, typically dawn to dusk; check local sources for updates.

Q: Is the tomb wheelchair accessible?
A: The entrance is narrow and the garden layout may not be fully accessible to wheelchairs or visitors with mobility impairments.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No dedicated tours, but the tomb is included in some broader heritage walks.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, but please be respectful of the residential setting and avoid flash.

Conservation and Preservation

Over the centuries, Edinburgh’s damp climate has softened the tomb’s sandstone carvings. Conservation efforts by local authorities focus on gentle cleaning, mortar repointing, and routine maintenance. Visitors are urged not to touch the stonework, helping to preserve the site for future generations (VisitScotland).

Conclusion

John Livingstone’s Tomb is a profoundly evocative testament to Edinburgh’s 17th-century history—a blend of civic pride, religious belief, and personal loss set within a tranquil urban garden. As a rare surviving plague-era monument, it offers both a site of reflection and a fascinating subject for historical exploration. Its free and open access, proximity to other attractions, and unique atmosphere make it an essential stop for anyone interested in Edinburgh historical sites.