Redford Barracks - Cavalry Barracks

Cavalry Barracks

The three-storeyed Cavalry Barracks (55°54′46″N 3°14′31″W / 55.9127°N 3.2419°W / 55.9127; -3.2419 (Cavalry Barracks, Redford Barracks, Edinburgh)), with its tall domed clock-tower, was originally built to house a Cavalry regiment, most notably the Royal Scots Greys, with a large annexe of Stables and associated outbuildings. With the permanent stationing of armoured units like the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards in Germany as part of the British Army of the Rhine, the Cavalry barracks was no longer required for its original purpose. Today it is 51st (Scottish) Brigade's Regional Training Centre, base for all Territorial Army training in Scotland, as well as housing other administrative functions. The Cavalry Barracks has also recently become base to the Headquarters of 52 Brigade, which largely moved from Edinburgh Castle, with the exception of a few remaining ceremonial functions. The Cavalry Barracks also annually houses the performers of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with the parade square used for rehearsals.

An urban myth is that the Barracks' design was originally intended for use in India due to its distinctive Indo-Saracenic architectural features, as well the high ceilings, doorways and airy rooms throughout the main blocks.