Warriston's Close Stairs
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Warriston's Close is a historic narrow alleyway in Edinburgh's Old Town that descends 120 steps from the Royal Mile to Cockburn Street. This atmospheric close features a unique architectural quirk: the staircase widens dramatically as you descend, transforming from a typical narrow lane into a quadruple-width staircase at the bottom. The close exemplifies the medieval character of Edinburgh's Old Town, with its steep slopes and maze-like layout that once housed the city's working classes and poor.
A brief summary to Warriston's Close Stairs
- Warriston's Cl, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH1 1LW, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- The steps widen dramatically as you descend—a unique architectural feature that makes for striking photographs from different angles and heights.
- Wear sturdy footwear with good grip; the steps can be steep and uneven, particularly challenging in wet or icy conditions.
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details and avoid the narrow passages becoming disorienting in low light.
- Combine your visit with nearby closes like Advocate's Close and Jacob's Ladder to experience Edinburgh's complete staircase heritage.
- The close connects the Royal Mile to Cockburn Street, making it a practical shortcut while exploring the Old Town's interconnected network.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Walking from Royal Mile
From the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town, locate Warriston's Close between the main street and Cockburn Street. The entrance is clearly marked and accessible on foot. Walking time from the Castle end of the Royal Mile is approximately 10–15 minutes depending on your starting point. The close is free to access and open to the public at all times.
-
Public Transport to Old Town
Take any Lothian Buses service to the Royal Mile or nearby stops such as the Lawnmarket or High Street stops. Services run frequently throughout the day (every 5–15 minutes depending on the route). Single fares cost approximately £1.80–£2.00. From the bus stop, Warriston's Close is a short walk of 2–5 minutes.
-
Taxi or Ride-Share
Request a taxi or ride-share service to Cockburn Street or the Royal Mile in the Old Town. Journey times from Edinburgh city centre are typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £6–£12. Once dropped off, Warriston's Close is within easy walking distance.
-
Parking and Walking
Street parking near the Old Town is extremely limited and often restricted. The nearest car park is the Castle Terrace Car Park, approximately 200 metres away, with charges around £2.50 per hour. Alternatively, use the Waverley Station Car Park (approximately 300 metres away). From either location, walk to the Royal Mile and locate Warriston's Close; journey time is 5–10 minutes on foot.
Warriston's Close Stairs location weather suitability
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Warriston's Close Stairs
A Medieval Thoroughfare Through Edinburgh's Historic Heart
Warriston's Close stands as one of Edinburgh's most distinctive and visually striking staircases, running almost parallel to Advocate's Close between the Royal Mile and Cockburn Street in the heart of the Old Town. This narrow alleyway descends approximately 120 steps, representing the steep topography characteristic of the area near Castle Hill. The close is a living example of how medieval Edinburgh's street network functioned, with these steep passages serving as essential connections between the main thoroughfare and the lower levels of the city. The architectural and spatial experience of descending Warriston's Close provides visitors with an authentic sense of how the original city streets would have operated centuries ago.The Remarkable Widening Staircase
What makes Warriston's Close particularly fascinating is its unusual architectural feature: the steps widen progressively as you descend. What begins as a typical narrow lane—characteristic of most Edinburgh closes—gradually transforms into a quadruple-width staircase by the time you reach the bottom. This widening effect creates a striking visual and spatial experience that distinguishes Warriston's Close from other similar passages in the Old Town. The design reflects practical medieval urban planning, where the narrower upper section would have been flanked by residential buildings while the wider lower section provided more open space for movement and commerce. This distinctive characteristic has made Warriston's Close a notable landmark for both residents and visitors exploring Edinburgh's historic closes.Social History and Urban Character
Like many of Edinburgh's closes, Warriston's Close was historically home to the city's working classes and poor residents. These narrow, maze-like side streets were typical of medieval Edinburgh's social geography, with the main streets reserved for wealthier inhabitants and commerce, while the closes housed those of more modest means. The steep slopes and confined spaces created a distinctive urban environment that shaped the daily lives of generations of Edinburgh residents. Today, walking through Warriston's Close offers a tangible connection to this social history, allowing visitors to experience the physical reality of how ordinary people navigated and inhabited the medieval city.Integration Within Edinburgh's Close Network
Warriston's Close is part of Edinburgh's extensive network of closes—a Scots term for alleyways—that characterize the Old Town's unique urban form. These passages typically slope steeply down from the Royal Mile, creating a herring-bone pattern when viewed on a map. Most closes feature steps and long flights of stairs, and many were historically named after notable occupants or trades practiced by residents. Warriston's Close maintains this tradition and remains accessible to the public, offering an unobstructed passage between the upper and lower levels of the Old Town. The close's preservation and continued use demonstrate the enduring importance of these medieval thoroughfares to Edinburgh's urban fabric and pedestrian network.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.0 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Adam Smith Statue
0.1 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Mercat Cross
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
The High Street Wellhead
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Museum Context
0.1 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
David Hume Statue
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
Barrie's Close
0.1 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
124 High St
0.2 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Lady Stair's Close
0.2 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
North Bridge
0.2 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.2 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Milne's Court
0.2 km
Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Advocate's Cl
0.0 km
Step into history along Advocate's Close, a steep medieval alleyway in Edinburgh’s Old Town, rich with legal heritage and stunning views.
The Real Mary King's Close
0.0 km
Step beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile into a preserved 17th-century close and uncover the city’s hidden stories of plague, poverty, and daily life.
JK Rowling’s Handprints
0.0 km
Discover the golden handprints of J.K. Rowling at Edinburgh City Chambers, a tribute to the author’s lasting impact on the city and literary world.
Advocates Close
0.1 km
Discover the steep, historic alleyway of Advocates Close, where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
0.1 km
Experience the magic of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, where tradition meets breathtaking performances in the heart of Scotland.
Parliament Sqr
0.1 km
Historic Parliament Square in Edinburgh blends medieval charm with modern architecture at the gateway to the Royal Mile.
The News Steps
0.1 km
Historic stone steps linking Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town, echoing the city’s vibrant newspaper heritage and urban character.
Edinburgh Underground
0.1 km
Descend into Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults for a thrilling blend of dark history, ghostly tales, and immersive storytelling beneath the Old Town.
Cockburn St
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Cockburn Street, a historic serpentine link blending Scots Baronial charm with vibrant shops and lively culture.
St Giles' Cathedral
0.1 km
Discover the historic heart of Edinburgh at St Giles' Cathedral, a symbol of Scotland’s faith, history, and architectural grandeur.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
0.1 km
Experience the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, a vibrant symbol of Edinburgh's football heritage and a must-see historical landmark.
The Edinburgh Dungeon
0.1 km
Dive into Edinburgh’s darkest history with thrilling live shows, chilling rides, and immersive storytelling at The Edinburgh Dungeon.
Anchor Close
0.1 km
Historic Anchor Close on Cockburn Street offers an atmospheric glimpse into Edinburgh’s Old Town heritage amid Scots Baronial architecture and vibrant urban life.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.1 km
An ornate Victorian bronze statue honoring the 5th Duke of Buccleuch’s legacy, set in Edinburgh’s historic Parliament Square.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's political heart and hidden histories at Parliament Square's premier historical experience.
Essential places to dine
Ecco Vino
0.0 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.0 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Devil's Advocate
0.0 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.1 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Makars Mash Bar
0.1 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Ondine Restaurant
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
The Piper's Rest
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Howies Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
The Cellar Door
0.3 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.3 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Maison Bleue
0.3 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Under The Stairs
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Number One
0.3 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
Twenty Princes Street
0.3 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
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Eden
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Fringe Shop
0.1 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.1 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
I Love Scotland
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
Heritage of Scotland
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Olde Edinburgh
0.2 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
The Scotland Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
House of Scotland
0.2 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
The Court Curio Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.2 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
0.3 km
Edinburgh's iconic artisan cheese shop where small-scale makers meet passionate consumers on the city's most storied street.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.3 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.1 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Copper Still
0.1 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
The Jolly Judge
0.2 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
The Three Sisters
0.2 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Whistlebinkies
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.3 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Bow Bar
0.3 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
Cask
0.3 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Oz Bar
0.3 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Frankenstein
0.3 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.4 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sneaky Pete's
0.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.2 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
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.3 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.3 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.3 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
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.5 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.
Opal Lounge
0.6 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.6 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.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.7 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
0.9 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
- Scenic
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Requires Hike
- Physically Demanding
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
