In place and bang on time…

Ball returns to the Nelson Monument

Edinburgh’s famous time ball is back in place on top of the Nelson Monument following a major restoration project.

Visitors to the attraction can now also explore some of the rooms at its base, while a new display – designed by Edinburgh-based Studioarc – provides an introduction to the fascinating history of the iconic World Heritage building.

The time ball dates back to 1852. It traditionally drops at exactly one o’clock but, after 150 years of use, restoration was required.

It was originally used by ships’ captains to set their chronometers accurately. Nine years later, the One O’clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle was added to give an audible signal.

The restoration work is part of the Twelve Monuments Project, a joint project between the Council and Edinburgh World Heritage, which will see some of the city’s most important statues and monuments restored for future generations to enjoy.

The time ball repair has been possible thanks to a grant of £50,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund, along with donations from many other charitable trusts and businesses.