About Rock House

Rock House is one of Edinburgh’s landmark houses – historically significant, undeniably beautiful and exceptionally located in the very heart of Edinburgh.

Rock House History

Built in the 1750s, Rock House is reputed to be one of the oldest houses in Edinburgh’s new town. It came to worldwide fame as the home of David Octavius Hill, the artist and pioneering photographer who in 1843 together with Robert Adamson developed the calotype process at Rock House.

Robert Adamson

Robert Adamson
courtesy of Scottish National Portrait Gallery

David Octavius Hill

David Octavius Hill
courtesy of Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Both Hill and Adamson are credited with the origination of photography as an art form – taking the camera into the landscape and for the first time photographing people in their natural habitat.

Two Newhaven Fishwives

Two Newhaven Fishwives
David Octavius Hill & Robert Adamson

Rock House remained in continuous use as a photographer’s studio from the 1840s up until the 1950s. Recently renovated, it has now returned to its former glory and can be enjoyed by members of the public for short stays and holidays.

Edinburgh From Calton Hill William Turner

Edinburgh from Calton Hill
William Turner