Edward VIII Post Box in Aberdeen
Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
The Edward VIII Post Box at 2 Desswood Place, Aberdeen, is a rare historical landmark featuring the royal cipher of King Edward VIII, who reigned briefly in 1936 before abdicating. This distinctive pillar box is one of only 271 produced during his short reign, making it a unique piece of British postal history and a tangible reminder of a monarch whose legacy is marked by brevity and intrigue.
A brief summary to Edward VIII Post Box
- 2 Desswood Pl, Aberdeen, AB25 2DH, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best viewing and photography conditions.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Aberdeen’s historic granite architecture.
- Look closely at the royal cipher on the box to appreciate its historical uniqueness.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Aberdeen city center to the Desswood Place area, with journeys typically lasting 15-25 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with single fares around £2-£3 GBP. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends and evenings.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from central Aberdeen to 2 Desswood Place takes approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £8-£12 GBP. Taxis offer door-to-door convenience, suitable for visitors with limited mobility.
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Walking
If you are staying within 3 km of Desswood Place, walking is a pleasant option taking 30-40 minutes through Aberdeen’s granite streets. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for all fitness levels, with pavements and pedestrian crossings available.
Edward VIII Post Box location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Edward VIII Post Box
A Brief Reign Captured in Cast Iron
The Edward VIII Post Box in Aberdeen stands as a rare physical testament to one of the shortest reigns in British monarchy history. King Edward VIII ascended the throne in January 1936 but abdicated in December the same year to marry Wallis Simpson, an event that shocked the nation and altered the course of the monarchy. During this brief period, approximately 271 post boxes bearing his royal cipher "EVIII" were produced, making these boxes scarce relics of a fleeting era.Design and Historical Significance
This post box features the royal cipher of Edward VIII, a design element that distinguishes it from the more common post boxes bearing the ciphers of longer-reigning monarchs. The boxes were cast with the letters "EVIII R" (Edward VIII Rex) and are cylindrical in shape, following the traditional pillar box style established in the 19th century. The Edward VIII boxes are especially notable because there was no coronation and the reign lasted less than a year, making these post boxes a unique historical curiosity.Context within British Postal History
Pillar boxes have been a fixture of the British postal system since the mid-1800s, evolving alongside the expansion of the postal service. The Edward VIII Post Box in Aberdeen is part of this long tradition, linking the city to the broader history of communication and public service in the UK. These boxes not only served a practical purpose but also symbolized the monarchy’s presence in everyday life.Location and Setting
Situated at 2 Desswood Place in Aberdeen, this post box is located in a city known for its granite architecture and rich history. The box itself is accessible and visible to passersby, offering a glimpse into a unique chapter of British heritage. Its placement in Aberdeen adds regional significance, as such boxes are more commonly documented in southern England, making this Scottish example particularly special.Preservation and Legacy
Given their rarity, Edward VIII post boxes are often subjects of preservation efforts and historical interest. While many have suffered from weathering and neglect, those that remain are cherished for their connection to a monarch who left a lasting impression despite his short tenure. This Aberdeen box contributes to the collective memory of Edward VIII’s reign and the evolution of British postal services.Visiting and Appreciating the Landmark
Visitors to the Edward VIII Post Box can appreciate the craftsmanship and historical resonance it embodies. It invites reflection on the intersection of monarchy, public service, and design. Though small and utilitarian, the box is a poignant reminder of a dramatic period in British history, accessible to anyone exploring Aberdeen’s streets.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Edward VIII Post Box
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Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Scenic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
