Advocates Close: Edinburgh’s Historic Alley with Iconic Views
A steep, historic alley in Edinburgh’s Old Town offering stunning views of the Scott Monument and a rich blend of medieval charm and modern revitalization.
Advocates Close is a narrow, steep medieval alleyway in Edinburgh’s Old Town, linking Market Street to the Royal Mile. Famous for its dramatic views of the Scott Monument and Princes Street, it blends historic architecture with modern redevelopment. Once a prestigious address, it later became a dense tenement slum before being sensitively restored into a vibrant space with hotels, offices, and bars. Its atmospheric charm and rich history make it a must-see hidden gem near St Giles Cathedral.
A brief summary to Advocates Close
- Edinburgh, EH1 1ND, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as Advocates Close is steep and features many steps.
- Visit during daylight for the best views of the Scott Monument and Princes Street.
- Explore nearby landmarks like St Giles Cathedral and the Royal Mile for a fuller Old Town experience.
- Stop by The Devil’s Advocate bar located within the close for a taste of local drinks in a historic setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36, which run frequently from Edinburgh city centre to stops near the Royal Mile. From there, it’s a short walk to Advocates Close. Journey time is approximately 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80-£2.00 one way.
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Walking
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, walk east along Princes Street and continue onto the Royal Mile. The walk is about 1.2 km, mostly on paved streets with some cobbled sections, taking roughly 15-20 minutes. The route includes some uphill and downhill sections, so wear comfortable footwear.
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Taxi
Taxis from central Edinburgh to Advocates Close take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £5 to £10. Taxi ranks are available at Waverley Station and Princes Street.
Advocates 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 Advocates Close
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.1 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
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.
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.
Adam Smith Statue
0.1 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
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.
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.
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.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
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.
Museum Context
0.2 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
124 High St
0.2 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Department Of Magic
0.2 km
Experience the magical fusion of cocktails and escape rooms at Edinburgh's Department of Magic, where every visit is a thrilling adventure.
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.
George IV Bridge
0.2 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.2 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Parliament Sqr
0.0 km
Historic Parliament Square in Edinburgh blends medieval charm with modern architecture at the gateway to the Royal Mile.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
0.0 km
Experience the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, a vibrant symbol of Edinburgh's football heritage and a must-see historical landmark.
St Giles' Cathedral
0.0 km
Discover the historic heart of Edinburgh at St Giles' Cathedral, a symbol of Scotland’s faith, history, and architectural grandeur.
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.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.0 km
An ornate Victorian bronze statue honoring the 5th Duke of Buccleuch’s legacy, set in Edinburgh’s historic Parliament Square.
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
0.1 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.
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.
Edinburgh City Chambers
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh City Chambers: A Historical Gem in the Heart of Scotland's Capital, Showcasing Governance and Heritage.
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.
Supreme Courts
0.1 km
Explore the Supreme Courts of Edinburgh, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in Scottish legal history, located in the heart of Scotland's capital.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's political heart and hidden histories at Parliament Square's premier historical experience.
The Lost Close
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden underground vault for immersive whisky tastings and rich historical storytelling beneath the Royal Mile.
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.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.1 km
Experience the history and charm of Edinburgh at Deacon Brodie's Tavern, a traditional pub offering local ales and hearty Scottish cuisine.
Essential places to dine
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
0.1 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Ecco Vino
0.1 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Makars Mash Bar
0.1 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Ondine Restaurant
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
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.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.2 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate 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.
The Cellar Door
0.2 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Maison Bleue
0.2 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Under The Stairs
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.3 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Amber Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic 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.
Fringe Shop
0.1 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Heritage of Scotland
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Eden
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.2 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Olde Edinburgh
0.2 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
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.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
0.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic artisan cheese shop where small-scale makers meet passionate consumers on the city's most storied street.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.2 km
Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
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.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.3 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
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
Copper Still
0.2 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.2 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
The Bow Bar
0.2 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
Whistlebinkies
0.3 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 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 Banshee Labyrinth
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
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 Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
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.
Cask
0.3 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Captain's Bar
0.4 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
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.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.4 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Ballie Ballerson
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
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 Liquid Room
0.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
La Belle Angele
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
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
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
