Discover the Historic Anchor Close in Edinburgh
Explore the enchanting Anchor Close in Edinburgh, a historic alleyway filled with unique shops, rich culture, and stunning architecture.
Anchor Close offers a charming glimpse into Edinburgh's rich history, nestled just off Cockburn Street. This quaint alleyway is perfect for tourists seeking a blend of culture, architecture, and unique shopping experiences in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to Anchor Close
- Cockburn St, Edinburgh, EH1 1BS, GB
Local tips
- Visit during the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Don’t forget your camera; the architecture and narrow pathways are incredibly photogenic.
- Look out for local artisans selling handmade goods; they make perfect souvenirs.
- Check for any local events or art displays happening in the close during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
From Selkirk, head out of the town towards the A7 road. Merge onto the A7 and follow the signs towards Edinburgh for approximately 30 miles. As you approach Edinburgh, take the exit toward A701/Edinburgh West. Continue on the A701, following signs for the city center. Once you reach the city center, follow the signs towards the Old Town. Cockburn Street is located just off the Royal Mile. Find parking nearby, as street parking can be limited.
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Public Transportation
From Selkirk, take the Borders Railway from Selkirk Train Station to Edinburgh Waverley Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. Upon arrival at Waverley Station, exit the station and head towards the Royal Mile. Walk straight down the Royal Mile until you reach Cockburn Street, which is a short walk away. Look for signs directing you towards the Old Town.
Discover more about Anchor Close
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Museum Context
0.0 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.1 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
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.
Adam Smith Statue
0.1 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
124 High St
0.1 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
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.
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.
North Bridge
0.1 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Barrie's Close
0.2 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.
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.
David Hume Statue
0.2 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
Wellhead at John Knox House
0.3 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Lawnmarket
0.3 km
Discover Lawnmarket, a historic street in Edinburgh rich in culture, shopping, and stunning medieval architecture, perfect for an unforgettable visit.
Lady Stair's Close
0.3 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cockburn St
0.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Cockburn Street, a historic serpentine link blending Scots Baronial charm with vibrant shops and lively culture.
City Art Centre
0.0 km
Explore Scotland’s rich artistic heritage and vibrant contemporary scene at Edinburgh’s City Art Centre, a dynamic cultural landmark near Waverley Station.
Fleshmarket Cl
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting Fleshmarket Close, a historic gem in Edinburgh, showcasing rich culture and captivating architecture amidst cobblestone charm.
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 Edinburgh Dungeon
0.1 km
Dive into Edinburgh’s darkest history with thrilling live shows, chilling rides, and immersive storytelling at The Edinburgh Dungeon.
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.
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.
The Real Mary King's Close
0.1 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.
Royal Mile
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile – a vibrant cobbled artery linking castle, cathedral, and palace through centuries of Scottish heritage.
City of Edinburgh Tours
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground and historic Old Town with immersive ghost and history tours from the iconic Old Police Box.
Advocate's Cl
0.1 km
Step into history along Advocate's Close, a steep medieval alleyway in Edinburgh’s Old Town, rich with legal heritage and stunning views.
Tron Kirk Market
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s historic 17th-century Tron Kirk transformed into a vibrant indoor market showcasing Scotland’s finest arts and crafts.
Hunter Square
0.1 km
Historic Hunter Square, a serene crossroads behind Tron Kirk, blends Edinburgh’s rich heritage with peaceful urban charm.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's political heart and hidden histories at Parliament Square's premier historical experience.
Essential places to dine
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.0 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Ecco Vino
0.1 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.1 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Piper's Rest
0.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
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.
Makars Mash Bar
0.2 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Number One
0.3 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
Monteiths
0.3 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Whiski Rooms
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
Ondine Restaurant
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
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.
La Garrigue
0.3 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
0.3 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Howies Restaurant
0.3 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Eden
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.0 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.
Fringe Shop
0.1 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
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.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.2 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
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.
Pure Scottish
0.2 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.2 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Anime Republic
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
I Love Scotland
0.2 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
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
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.
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.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Three Sisters
0.3 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.3 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
The Jolly Judge
0.3 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 World's End
0.3 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.3 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Bow Bar
0.4 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Oz Bar
0.4 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Frankenstein
0.4 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 Alchemist
0.4 km
Theatrical cocktails that smoke and sparkle, inventive global dishes, and an alchemist's lair in Edinburgh's St James Quarter—pure mixology magic awaits.
Captain's Bar
0.5 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.2 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
0.2 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.
Sneaky Pete's
0.3 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.3 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
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
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.
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.
Opal Lounge
0.7 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.8 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
1.0 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
