Edinburgh is adorned with narrow passages, known as closes, that hold secrets around their dark twists and turns.
Edinburgh has over 250 closes, with most of them located in the Old Town that run along both sides of the Royal Mile. A ‘close’ is a narrow alleyway or passage, often leading off the main street into courtyards or between buildings.
Closes in Edinburgh exist because of how the city developed during the medieval period. They were created for many reasons such as easy access between streets, residential access, for workspaces and trade, and social and community hubs.
Each one of Edinburgh’s closes hold secrets around their dark twists and turns.
These secrets, some more than 500 years old, tell the story of Edinburgh’s history.
Learn about the history of 10 of the city’s closes below.
Riddle’s Close
Played host to King James VI and his wife Anne of Denmark at a royal banquet in 1598.
Riddle’s Close, located on Lawnmarket, was initially a mansion house complex built by Baille John McMorran in the 1590s, later becoming known as Riddle’s Court after George Riddle’s reconstruction in 1726.
In 1730 the close was referred to as “Sir James Smith’s Close, now Royston’s Close”; the first referring to Sir James Smith of Groathill, Provost 1643-46, who lived in the cross house between the two courtyards; while the later name was for Sir James Mackenzie, who lived in the lower part of the MacMorran mansion and sat as Lord Royston in the Court of Session 1710-44. Yet another name for the close was Shaw’s Close, evidently for Bernard Shawe, one of the resident owners in 1635.
Riddles Court has a distinguished history, including playing host to King James VI and his wife Anne of Denmark at a royal banquet in 1598 and becoming the residence of David Hume, philosopher and historian, in 1751.
The building is also closely linked to Patrick Geddes, philanthropist, educator and town planner. His principle of ‘conservative surgery’ aimed to preserve the most historically significant parts of Old Town buildings by demolishing the more dilapidated parts, making what remained more hygienic and suitable for 1890s living. He converted the main part of the building into one of Edinburgh’s first student halls of residence.
It has since seen various uses and was restored by the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust in the 2010s.
Step outside the close and you’re right on the Royal Mile – surrounded by shops, pubs and more. Just a 2-minute walk uphill from the close is Edinburgh Castle, where you can continue learning about Edinburgh’s history.
Fleshmarket Close
Named after a meat market that was situated there.
Fleshmarket Close in Edinburgh’s Old Town is named after the former meat market and slaughterhouse located there – a significant part of the city’s history. The close was a vital part of the city’s food supply, with meat often being hung down the alley and blood dripping down the steep incline of the lane to drain naturally down to the lake in the valley to the north of the city.
Crime writer, Ian Rankin, who lives in Edinburgh, sets his Inspector Rebus stories in the city, and often utilises the real-life locations in his stories. One of his novels is entitled Fleshmarket Close after this dark and brooding passageway through the Old Town. Today, Fleshmarket Close is a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into Edinburgh’s past and a unique walking experience.
If you’re passing through the close, pay a visit to The Jinglin’ Geordie Bar, a traditional bar selling real ales, a large selection of malt whisky, and much more.
The Real Mary King’s Close
The close has been preserved to this day, offering a glimpse into 17th-century life frozen in time.
The Real Mary King’s Close is situated underneath Edinburgh’s old Royal Exchange, now the City Chambers, and features preserved 17th century homes that were closed to the public for decades. The ancient subterranean close, which is reputedly haunted, is now a major tourist attraction.
The close was named after Mary King, a merchant burgess who lived there with her four children—Alexander, Euphemia, Jonet, and William. She was a burgess on the city council, granting her voting rights, a rare privilege for women at the time.
The close was hit particularly hard during the 17th century bubonic plague. It was partially demolished and buried due to the construction of the Royal Exchange in 1753. In 2003, the network of closes reopened as a visitor attraction.
This area, now only accessible via underground tunnels, has been the site of much paranormal activity and is shrouded in myths and urban legends; tales of hauntings and murders abounded. Near this close ran the old Nor Loch, a stagnant and highly polluted marsh, where biogas escaped into the close and may have caused eerie lights leading to rumours of spirit hauntings. Furthermore, the gas running into the closes would cause hallucinations.
The Real Mary King’s Close is now a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors who want to explore Edinburgh’s hidden history and learn about the lives of its former residents. Warm up with a hearty soup or relax and enjoy a tea and scone in the Royal Exchange Coffee House located along the close.
Advocate’s Close
Named after Sir James Stewart, the Lord Advocate of Scotland from 1692 to 1709.
Dating back to the 15th century, Advocate’s Close in Edinburgh’s Old Town is a steep and narrow lane connecting the Royal Mile to Cockburn Street. The close was named after Sir James Stewart, who lived in the close from 1635 to 1713, and was Lord Advocate of Scotland from 1692 to 1709.
The close was once a fashionable address, home to Scottish gentry and professionals and offers views over the Scott Monument and Princes Street. It’s a handy shortcut for those visiting the Royal Mile and St Giles’ Cathedral.
The Bertram/Cor House located in the Close was once the home of a wealthy merchant, Andrew Bertram, and later national merchant Clement Cor.
Today it’s a popular spot to take a picture, with the arch of the close’s pend providing a perfect frame for the Scott Monument on Princes Street. Continue through the close and you’ll end up on Cockburn Street, or stop at the Devil’s Advocate, located inside the close, for a cocktail or whisky.
Lady Stairs Close
Home to the Writers’ Museum, celebrating literary legends.
Lady Stair’s Close offers a quiet retreat into Edinburgh’s layered history. Named after Elizabeth, Dowager Countess of Stair, who acquired the house in 1719, the close centres on a striking townhouse originally built in 1622 for Sir William Gray of Pittendrum. Its steep gables and intricate stonework reflect the architecture of the period, while the initials of its first owners are still visible above the entrance, providing a tangible connection to its past.
Today, Lady Stair’s House houses The Writers’ Museum, a fascinating tribute to Scotland’s literary legacy. Dedicated to Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson, the museum displays a collection of manuscripts, portraits, and personal artefacts, allowing visitors to delve into the lives of these celebrated authors. Outside, Makars’ Court features inscribed flagstones honouring other notable Scottish writers, creating a space that merges literature with history.
Just a short walk away from the close is Whiski Rooms, an award winning venue that has hundreds of rare and collectable whiskies as well as a dedicated whisky tasting room.
Bakehouse Close
Used as a filming location for the TV series Outlander.
Bakehouse Close, a historic alleyway in Edinburgh’s Old Town, takes its name from the Incorporation of Bakers of the Canongate who owned property on its west side, and was once home to a bakery and other shops.
In the 18th century, the area was known for its more dubious establishments, frequented by those seeking Edinburgh’s seedier offerings. The close retains its authentic character, with original architectural features surviving.
Bakehouse Close is a filming location for the TV series Outlander, notably as the Print Shop of Alexander Malcolm where the characters Jamie and Claire were reunited.
Beyond its cinematic connections, Bakehouse Close is a fascinating historical site in its own right. Nearby, the Acheson House, built in 1633, offers another layer of architectural interest. Continue through the close and you will arrive at the Museum of Edinburgh, where you can discover more about Edinburgh’s history.
Brodie’s Close
Named after respected cabinetmaker by day and secret burglar by night – Deacon William Brodie.
Brodie’s Close in Edinburgh’s Old Town is named after the infamous Deacon William Brodie, a respectable cabinet maker and city councillor who led a secret life as a burglar, inspiring Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
William Brodie (1741-1788) was a respected member of Edinburgh society, a cabinet maker, and a deacon (president) of the Incorporation of Wrights, which controlled the craft of cabinetmaking in Edinburgh. By day, Brodie was a pillar of the community, but by night, he led a secret life as a burglar, using his skills as a locksmith to gain access to wealthy homes and steal valuables. Brodie was eventually caught, convicted, and hanged in 1788 for his crimes.
Today, a pub called Deacon Brodie Tavern stands on the Royal Mile, commemorating the infamous deacon and his story. Located along the close is Deacon’s House Cafe, where you can stop for a scone and cuppa.
Wardrop’s Close
Was formed following the demolition of tenements in the 1890s, one of which was a house previously occupied by Robert Burns (1759-96).
Wardrop’s Close, located behind the Lawnmarket, (and thus Wardrop’s Close) came into being in the 1890s when tenements that separated it from Paterson’s Court were demolished. Among the demolished buildings was the house where Robert Burns stayed during his first visit to Edinburgh.
The open courtyard that can be seen in this area was created on the instructions of town planner Sir Patrick Geddes. To the north of the Court is Blackie House, a 17th century tenement named after Professor J.S. Blackie.
The late 17th century tenement was remodelled by Henbest Capper as a university hall of residence for Patrick Geddes, in memory of Professor JS Blackie, with a terracotta portrait medallion commemorating Blackie.
The entrance to Wardrop’s Court is known for its dragon brackets, sculpted by J S Gibson circa 1890. The dragons were restored to their former glory in 2012 by various groups, including the City of Edinburgh Council, Edinburgh World Heritage, Brownie Old Town Trust, and the Geddes family.
Grab something sweet or savoury from The Castle Rock Cafe located near to the close.
Anchor’s Close
Was once home to the famous Edinburgh Evening Courant newspaper, a key location in the city’s print industry.
Anchor Close, named after the The Anchor Tavern, is a historical alleyway that connects the Royal Mile to Cockburn Street. The Anchor Tavern was run by the formidable Fanny Douglas and her husband, home to the “Crochallan Fencibles”.
“Crochallan Fencibles” was one of many convivial societies and clubs in 18th century Edinburgh. They had the honour of counting Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, amongst their members. The tavern would see many a merry world premieres of Burns’ latest poems, especially those too bawdy for the sensitive ears of the city’s high society. It was a club of some of the most distinguished men in the city, founded by William Smellie, printer in the close, who also founded the Encyclopaedia Britannica and printed the first Edinburgh edition of Burns in 1787.
The close is recorded as Fowler’s or Foular’s Close in 1521, for a William Fowler, merchant burgess. The close was also known as Fordyce’s Close before 1711, for James Fordyce, described as a religious writer; and it is recorded in 1723 as having been Brown’s Close, for Thomas Brown’s property in it, and then Dickson’s Close for Thomas Dickson.
Choose to walk towards the Royal Mile or Cockburn Street, both of which have an array of shops, cafes, restaurants and attractions.
Old Fishmarket Close
The site of a former fish market and public executions, including that of infamous murderer William Burke.
On the High Street you can find the Old Fishmarket Close. The close was named after the fish market that thrived within it. Old Fishmarket Close is a combination of two closes, with the fish market situated between them.
The close has been known by various names, including Carmichael’s Close (1722), Gourlay’s Close (1756), and Home Close (1707), reflecting its historical significance as a bustling commercial area. The most ancient name of all is Swift’s Wynd, recorded in 1539 but apparently going back to John Swift and his wife Alison, who acquired a tenement South of the High Street and “near the Cross” in 1427. Various references in RMS (Register of the Great Seal of Scotland Vols I-XI) 1433-1527 show that John and his son Thomas has more than one property between St Giles kirkyard and Borthwick’s Close.
The close is first recorded in 1592 and the fish market within it is mentioned in Town Council Minutes from 1539. The close was inhabited by John High, the last city hangman who died in 1817.
The area was also home to The Breakfast Mission, which had a building that was altered and reoriented towards the High Street in 2004.
If you decide to venture through the close, it will take you to Wings, a cult favourite spot known for wild flavours of chicken wings and quirky decor.
Want to learn more about Edinburgh’s history?
There are endless secrets hidden under Edinburgh’s streets.
