Contest to name newly restored unicorns on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile

A pair of 19th century unicorn sculptures at the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile have had their horns carefully restored, prompting a competition to name the two mythical beasts.

The sandstone sculptures adorn the facade of the Scotch Whisky Experience, just in front of the Edinburgh Castle esplanade.

Earlier this month, the visitor attraction replaced the horns which once sprouted from their heads with new wooden carvings, as part of a larger restoration of the building.

A competition has now been launched to name them, with suggested names including whisky-themed puns like Amber and Hew, Isla and Pete, Whisker and Snifter or Dram & Dash.

The 19th century animal statues adorn the facade of the Scotch Whisky Experience, in front of the Edinburgh Castle esplanade. PA Media

Winners of the contest, which runs until April 27, will receive a gold whisky tour and a special unicorn cocktail at the visitor attraction’s bar.

Ross Morris, head of facilities and IT at the Scotch Whisky Experience, is a keen woodworker in his spare time and crafted the new horns for the sculptures, replacing the original set which had simply fallen off over time.

Mr Morris said: “Helping restore the unicorns to their former glory has been a real privilege.

“Carving the spirals was a new and exciting challenge which drew on years of experience working with wood.”

He added: “Having the chance to contribute to such an iconic part of Edinburgh’s skyline, at a place that means so much to me, has been incredibly rewarding.”

A unicorn sculpture with a newly restored horn. PA Media

Heritage experts note that Edinburgh’s architecture often features unicorns and several can be found on the Royal Mile.

Adam Wilkinson, former director of Edinburgh World Heritage, said: “Buildings of the late Georgian/Victorian period in Edinburgh were particularly loaded with symbolism.

“Whether the use of classical features in the New Town, or adaptations of Gothic styles like this in the Old Town.

“If you look up in Edinburgh, you will often spot intricate carvings of animals, including a cat on Well Court in the Dean Village.

A volunteer carved the new horns. PA Media

“Unicorns are one of Scotland’s many gifts to the world, and the Royal Mile is home to a number of them.

“On this particular building, which is Gothic in style, we see the traditional heraldic beasts, the unicorns, reflecting a post-medieval aesthetic.”

He continued: “It is wonderful to see responsible owners who are willing to invest in the care and maintenance of these important vestiges of Edinburgh’s social history and giving them a sustainable long term use.”

Entries to the “spirit of the unicorn” competition can be submitted on the Scotch Whisky Experience website.

The visitor centre offers tasting sessions designed to promote the famous Scottish spirit.