George visits Scotland

The 1822 visit of King George IV to Scotland was the first visit of a reigning monarch to Scotland since 1650.

The visit increased his popularity in Scotland, turning his subjects away from the rebellious radicalism of the time.

The whole thing was stage-managed by Sir Walter Scott who produced a shilling booklet "HINTS addressed to the INHABITANTS OF EDINBURGH AND OTHERS in prospect of HIS MAJESTY'S VISIT by an old citizen" which gave an outline of planned events with detailed advice on behaviour and clothing.

The King's statue stands at the intersection of George Street and Hanover Street to remind us of a very fashionable and showy event - but I don't imagine that the bird was ever de rigeur!