The Quiz: Edinburgh was affectionately known as ‘Auld Reekie’ in days gone by. Why?
A Because of the stench of fisheries
B After Edinburgh mayor Sir Thomas Reekie
C Due to its smog
Centuries ago, everyone in the old city used coal fireplaces for cooking and heating. The result? The city was covered in an omnipresent black fog, earning its nickname, Auld Reekie, or Old Smokey in common parlance.
The correct answer to this quiz is Due to its smog.