Dunbar's Close Garden, Edinburgh's Hidden 17th-Century Oasis
A serene 17th-century style garden hidden off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, offering a peaceful historic retreat in the city’s heart.
Nestled off the bustling Royal Mile at 137 Canongate, Dunbar's Close Garden is a tranquil, walled green space designed in the style of a 17th-century garden. Created in the 1970s by landscape architect Seamus Filor and inspired by historic garden layouts, it offers a peaceful retreat with manicured parterres, clipped shrubs, and shaded benches. This serene oasis, maintained by the City of Edinburgh, invites visitors to step back in time amidst the city's historic heart.
A brief summary to Dunbars Close
- 137 Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8BW, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 7 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the most tranquil experience with soft natural light and fewer visitors.
- Take time to explore each parterre and enjoy the variety of seasonal flowers and topiary designs.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Canongate Kirk and the Scottish Poetry Library for a fuller cultural experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the garden’s geometric layouts, historic stone walls, and views of Calton Hill.
- Use the garden as a quiet resting spot when walking the busy Royal Mile, especially during festivals or peak tourist seasons.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Bus route 35, which serves the Canongate area near Dunbar's Close Garden. The journey from Edinburgh city center typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day, but check schedules for evening and weekend service. A single fare costs approximately £1.80–£2.00 GBP.
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Walking
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, a 20 to 25-minute walk along the Royal Mile leads directly to Dunbar's Close Garden. The route is mostly flat but includes some cobbled streets and narrow alleys. Suitable for most fitness levels, though uneven surfaces may require caution for wheelchair users.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Edinburgh to Dunbar's Close Garden takes about 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience but can be more expensive, typically costing £5–£10 GBP.
Dunbars Close 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 Dunbars Close
A Quiet Sanctuary Amid Edinburgh’s Historic Royal Mile
Dunbar's Close Garden is a small, walled garden tucked away from the vibrant thoroughfare of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, at 137 Canongate. The garden lies within a narrow medieval close named after David Dunbar, an 18th-century Edinburgh writer who once owned property here. Unlike the densely packed tenements typical of the Old Town, this area historically featured elegant townhouses with spacious gardens, reflecting its proximity to Holyrood Palace and the nobility who resided nearby.Design Rooted in 17th-Century Garden Traditions
Though created in the 1970s, the garden faithfully reflects the style and character of 17th-century town gardens. Landscape architect Seamus Filor, commissioned by the Mushroom Trust, designed the garden using old maps and historical precedents, including inspiration from the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. The garden is divided into multiple parterres featuring clipped topiary, geometric flower beds, espaliered fruit trees, and ornamental plants such as roses, irises, and honeysuckle, all typical of the period’s horticultural practices.A Legacy of Urban Green Space Preservation
The Mushroom Trust, a Scottish charity dedicated to protecting urban green spaces, rescued the abandoned site in the late 1970s and gifted the completed garden to the City of Edinburgh Council in 1978. The garden embodies the vision of Patrick Geddes, a 19th-century urban planner who championed ‘pocket gardens’ to revitalize the Old Town’s green spaces and improve urban living. Today, the garden remains a managed, peaceful refuge amidst the city’s historic fabric.Experiencing the Garden’s Atmosphere and Features
Visitors enter through a narrow cobbled close into a serene space shaded by mature trees, including whitebeams and a central tulip tree. The garden’s layout encourages quiet exploration, with gravel paths winding between neatly trimmed yews and box hedges. The western boundary is formed by the stone walls of Canongate Kirk, adding a sense of enclosure and history. Benches scattered throughout offer restful spots to absorb the calm, listen to birdsong, and glimpse views of Calton Hill and the Old Royal High School rooftops.Seasonal Highlights and Botanical Interest
The garden’s planting changes with the seasons, showcasing snowdrops and grape hyacinths in spring, vibrant marigolds and agapanthus in summer, and rich autumnal hues later in the year. While the original 17th-century gardens also grew vegetables, herbs, and fruit such as figs and apricots, today’s garden focuses on ornamental plants that evoke the period’s aesthetic. The garden’s compact size and sheltered design create a microclimate that supports diverse flora and a quiet urban wildlife habitat.Continuing the Tradition of Urban Tranquility
Dunbar's Close Garden remains a beloved secret for those seeking respite from the Royal Mile’s crowds. Its free public access, historic authenticity, and carefully maintained atmosphere make it a unique green jewel in Edinburgh’s Old Town. The garden serves both as a reminder of the city’s layered history and as a living example of successful urban conservation and design.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Fergusson Statue
0.1 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Burns Monument
0.2 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
Queen Mary's Bath House
0.3 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
0.4 km
Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
0.4 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Dugald Stewart Monument
0.4 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
0.4 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.5 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
North Bridge
0.6 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
The Centre of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
Royal Mile
0.6 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh along the Royal Mile, where every step unveils a story waiting to be told.
Mercat Tours
0.6 km
Uncover Edinburgh's captivating stories with Mercat Tours – your gateway to the city's historical and haunted heritage.
South Bridge
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Edinburgh at South Bridge, a lively hub that connects the city's past with its modern vibrancy.
124 High St
0.6 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Unmissable attractions to see
Canongate Kirk
0.1 km
Historic Canongate Kirk, a royal parish church with unique Dutch gable and serene blue interior, nestled on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
The People's Story Museum
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s working-class heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories in a historic 16th-century landmark on the Royal Mile.
Museum of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history in a charming 16th-century building on the Royal Mile, featuring iconic artifacts and engaging exhibitions.
Edinburgh World Heritage
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a city alive with history and culture.
The Fudge House of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Historic Royal Mile sweet shop offering rich, creamy Scottish fudge in a charming, welcoming setting with a wide variety of flavors.
Regent Rd
0.2 km
Tranquil urban park and historic street offering stunning views and cultural landmarks in the heart of Edinburgh.
White Horse Close
0.2 km
Discover White Horse Close, a picturesque 17th-century courtyard and former coaching inn steeped in Edinburgh’s royal and social history.
Jacob's Ladder
0.2 km
Historic and steep, Jacob's Ladder links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and a glowing nighttime presence.
Scottish Parliament Building
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s modern democratic heart with free tours, debates, and iconic architecture in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Monument to the Scottish Parliament
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s bold and modern seat of democracy, where architecture and politics intertwine in Edinburgh’s historic heart.
Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history and culture through engaging French-language guided walking tours in the heart of the Old Town.
Dynamic Earth
0.3 km
Explore Earth’s incredible story through immersive science, interactive exhibits, and a stunning planetarium at Edinburgh’s Dynamic Earth.
The King's Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse
0.3 km
Explore exquisite royal art exhibitions in a historic gallery at Edinburgh’s Palace of Holyroodhouse, showcasing treasures from the Royal Collection.
Abbey Sanctuary - Historic Scotland
0.3 km
A historic lane beside the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where royal courtiers once lived and modern visitors now find a quiet, elegant base in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Nelson Monument
0.3 km
Discover the Nelson Monument on Calton Hill, a stunning tribute to Admiral Lord Nelson with panoramic views and rich maritime history in Edinburgh.
Essential places to dine
Tolbooth Tavern
0.1 km
Historic Royal Mile pub blending 400 years of Scottish history with authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
0.3 km
Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
La Garrigue
0.4 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.4 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Monteiths
0.4 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
0.4 km
Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
Howies Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
The Gardener's Cottage
0.6 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Duck & Waffle
0.6 km
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
The Piper's Rest
0.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.6 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Number One
0.7 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
The Botanist Edinburgh
0.7 km
A lush botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Edinburgh’s New Town, offering creative cocktails, hearty British fare, and live music in a vibrant garden setting.
Ecco Vino
0.7 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Twenty Princes Street
0.7 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Wyrd Shop
0.1 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
0.2 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Holyrood Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at Holyrood Gift Shop.
Ragamuffin
0.4 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Real Scot Shop
0.4 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.5 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.5 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Scotland Shop
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Galaxy
0.6 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Pure Scottish
0.6 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.6 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.7 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Eden
0.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Geeks
0.4 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whistlebinkies
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.6 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.6 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
Copper Still
0.7 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Captain's Bar
0.7 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Cask
0.7 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.7 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Street
0.8 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
The Three Sisters
0.8 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Artisan Bar
0.8 km
A classic Edinburgh pub with ornate charm, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming vibe for locals and visitors alike.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.9 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
Nightcap
0.9 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.6 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.6 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.7 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
0.9 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
1.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Why Not Nightclub
1.1 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
1.1 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
1.1 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Garibaldi's
1.2 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
Opal Lounge
1.2 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.4 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
1.6 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
