Scotland retro: 31 nostalgic photos taking you back to the 70s, and happy days in the sun

By Robert Cumber

Property and retro writer

Published 30th Apr 2026, 15:22 BST

It was a decade marked by strikes, amid the collapse of Britain’s heavy industries, while a three-day week was introduced to conserve energy.

But life during the 70s wasn’t entirely bleak, as these photos capturing happy moments in the sunshine around Scotland show.

Families are seen splashing around in a popular lido, workers are pictured soaking up some rays during their break, and diners are shown enjoying lunch al fresco, with a view to die for.

Ice creams and sandcastles at the beach, street magic in the city centre, and sailing trips from the harbour also feature in this retro photo gallery.

Do these nostalgic pictures bring back any happy 70s memories for you?

An ice cream kiosk does a roaring trade on Princes Street in June 1979

1. Ice cream

An ice cream kiosk does a roaring trade on Princes Street in June 1979 | TSPL

Crowds entering Central Station in Glasgow on Glasgow Fair Monday in July 1972

2. Central Station

Crowds entering Central Station in Glasgow on Glasgow Fair Monday in July 1972 | TSPL

A young majorette enjoys an ice cream at Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, on the Miners Gala Day in 1979

3. Majorette

A young majorette enjoys an ice cream at Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, on the Miners Gala Day in 1979 | TSPL

Ayr beach is crowded with holidaymakers on Glasgow Fair Monday in July 1971

4. Glasgow Fair Monday

Ayr beach is crowded with holidaymakers on Glasgow Fair Monday in July 1971 | TSPL

Scotland Memories Nostalgia Photo memories Boost