Advocates Close: Edinburgh’s Historic Alley with Iconic Views

A Medieval Passageway Steeped in History

Advocates Close dates back to at least the 15th century and takes its name from Sir James Stewart of Goodtrees, the Lord Advocate of Scotland in the early 18th century. Originally, it was a fashionable residential area for Edinburgh’s gentry and professional classes, with notable historic buildings such as Adam Bothwell’s house and the merchant Clement Cor’s residence lining the close. The alley plunges steeply from the Royal Mile down to Market Street, reflecting the medieval street pattern of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Transformation from Prestige to Tenement Slum

By the 19th century, Edinburgh’s upper classes had moved to the New Town and suburbs, leaving areas like Advocates Close to become overcrowded tenements inhabited by lower-income residents. The close’s steep slope and narrowness contributed to poor sanitation, with waste often thrown from windows, turning the area into a notorious slum. Industrial redevelopment nearby included printworks and offices, but the close itself retained much of its historic fabric despite decline.

Modern Redevelopment with Respect for Heritage

In the early 21st century, a sensitive redevelopment project revitalized Advocates Close. The City of Edinburgh Council oversaw a development brief that balanced preserving historic views—especially of the Scott Monument—and reopening previously closed closes. The scheme added missing storeys and introduced a mix of traditional and modern architecture, winning awards such as the RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award (2014) and the RTPI’s Best Development on the Ground (2014). Today, the close hosts a vibrant mix of hotels, offices, and bars, blending old-world charm with contemporary urban life.

Visual and Cultural Highlights

From the Royal Mile, Advocates Close offers one of the most picturesque and dramatic views in Edinburgh, framing the Scott Monument and Princes Street Gardens below. The close’s steep steps and winding path invite exploration, providing a tangible sense of Edinburgh’s layered history. Its proximity to landmarks like St Giles Cathedral and the Supreme Courts of Scotland adds to its cultural significance. The atmospheric setting has also inspired local bars and eateries, making it a lively spot for visitors seeking both history and contemporary city life.

Architectural Features and Urban Design

The close features a blend of preserved historic buildings and carefully designed new constructions that echo traditional forms. Notably, the re-addition of two floors and a pitched roof on the Warriston Close building presents a striking new stone gable facing Princes Street. The courtyard side architecture respects the past while being entirely new, showcasing Edinburgh’s approach to urban regeneration that honors heritage while accommodating modern needs.

Experience and Atmosphere Today

Walking down Advocates Close, visitors experience a unique juxtaposition of medieval urban fabric and contemporary vibrancy. The narrow, steep alleyway retains its historic character with cobbled steps and stone facades, while the presence of boutique bars and offices injects life into the close. It remains a quiet yet captivating escape from the busier Royal Mile, offering a glimpse into Edinburgh’s social evolution and architectural resilience.