Discover the Charm of Advocates Close
Explore the historic Advocates Close in Edinburgh, a charming alleyway rich in history and local culture, perfect for a leisurely stroll and discovery.
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Advocates Close is a captivating historic alley that offers visitors a glimpse into the city's rich past. With its cobbled stones, fascinating architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, this hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone exploring the capital of Scotland. Wander through this charming passageway, where you'll find unique shops, cozy cafes, and a sense of history that makes Edinburgh truly special.
A brief summary to Advocates Close
- Edinburgh, EH1 1ND, GB
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy a quieter experience away from the crowds.
- Bring your camera; the unique architecture and quaint shops provide great photo opportunities.
- Take the time to read the historical plaques along the close for a deeper understanding of its significance.
- Consider visiting nearby attractions like the Royal Mile to enhance your experience in the area.
- Check local event calendars to see if there are any performances or markets happening during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Royal Mile, head down to South Bridge. Walk south until you reach the junction with Advocates Close. The entrance to Advocates Close is directly across from the entrance to the National Museum of Scotland. Look for the sign indicating the close.
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Public Transport (Bus)
If you are further away, you can take a bus to the nearest stop. Look for buses that stop at 'High Street' or 'South Bridge'. From the bus stop, walk towards the Royal Mile and follow the previous walking directions to reach Advocates Close.
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Taxi
If you prefer not to walk, you can use a taxi service to get to Advocates Close. Taxis are available throughout Old Town. Simply ask the driver to take you to 'Advocates Close, EH1 1ND'. The cost will vary depending on your starting location, but a short journey within Old Town generally costs between £5 to £10.
Discover more about Advocates Close
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Warriston's Close Stairs
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A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Mercat Cross
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Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
David Hume Statue
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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
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Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
1 Parliament Sqr
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Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Barrie's Close
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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
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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
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Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Lady Stair's Close
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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
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Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
124 High St
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Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Department Of Magic
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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
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Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
George IV Bridge
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Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
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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
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Historic Parliament Square in Edinburgh blends medieval charm with modern architecture at the gateway to the Royal Mile.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
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Experience the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, a vibrant symbol of Edinburgh's football heritage and a must-see historical landmark.
St Giles' Cathedral
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Discover the historic heart of Edinburgh at St Giles' Cathedral, a symbol of Scotland’s faith, history, and architectural grandeur.
Advocate's Cl
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Explore Edinburgh City Chambers: A Historical Gem in the Heart of Scotland's Capital, Showcasing Governance and Heritage.
The News Steps
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Historic stone steps linking Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town, echoing the city’s vibrant newspaper heritage and urban character.
Supreme Courts
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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
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The Lost Close
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The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
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Experience the magic of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, where tradition meets breathtaking performances in the heart of Scotland.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
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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
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Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Devil's Advocate
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Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Ecco Vino
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Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Makars Mash Bar
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Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Ondine Restaurant
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Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Howies Restaurant
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Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
La Locanda Edinburgh
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A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
The Piper's Rest
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Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
The Cellar Door
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Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Outsider Restaurant
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Maison Bleue
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French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
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Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Under The Stairs
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The Witchery by the Castle
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A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Amber Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
I Love Scotland
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
Fringe Shop
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Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Heritage of Scotland
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Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Eden
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
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Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Crest Of Edinburgh
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Olde Edinburgh
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Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
The Court Curio Shop
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I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
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The Enchanted Galaxy
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The Scotland Shop
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Mr Wood's Fossils
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Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Copper Still
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Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
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The Bow Bar
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Whistlebinkies
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The Oz Bar
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The Banshee Labyrinth
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Royal Mile Tavern
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The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
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Whiski Bar & Restaurant
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Cask
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Captain's Bar
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The Cocktail Geeks
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Hoot The Redeemer
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Ballie Ballerson
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sneaky Pete's
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Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
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Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
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The Liquid Room
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La Belle Angele
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Cabaret Voltaire
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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
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The Mash House
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Shanghai Nightclub
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El Barrio Latino
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Why Not Nightclub
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Opal Lounge
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Garibaldi's
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The Shack Retro Bar & Club
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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
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Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
