Advocate's Close: Edinburgh's Historic Steep Alleyway

A Medieval Passageway with Rich Legal Heritage

Advocate's Close dates back to at least the 15th century and is named after Sir James Stewart of Goodtrees, who served as Lord Advocate of Scotland from 1692 to 1709. This narrow alleyway was once a prestigious residential street for the Scottish professional classes and gentry. The close’s steep, cobbled steps and narrow width reflect its medieval origins, preserving the character of Edinburgh’s Old Town. It connects Market Street at the foot of Cockburn Street to the Royal Mile, emerging opposite St Giles Cathedral and near the Supreme Courts of Scotland.

Architectural Evolution and Urban Redevelopment

While retaining its historic charm, Advocate's Close and the surrounding area underwent significant redevelopment in the early 21st century. This sensitive restoration balanced modern architectural additions with traditional stone facades, reintroducing missing storeys and pitched roofs to echo the past. The redevelopment earned prestigious awards for its urban design, including the RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award in 2014. Excavations during the works revealed artefacts illuminating Edinburgh’s settlement from the 12th century onward, highlighting the close’s long-standing role in the city’s fabric.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

Walking down Advocate's Close today offers an atmospheric journey into Edinburgh’s layered history. The close’s steep incline and cobbled surface evoke the sounds and sights of centuries past—from the clatter of shoes on stone steps to the imagined bustle of a once-fashionable street. The close frames a striking view of the Scott Monument when seen from the Royal Mile, making it a favored spot for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. However, its steepness and steps make it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments.

Historical Anecdotes and Notable Residents

Sir James Stewart, the close’s namesake, was a significant figure in Scotland’s legal history, navigating turbulent political times including the Restoration, the Glorious Revolution, and the 1707 Union. The close also housed other notable residents, such as Sir John Scougal, a prominent 17th-century painter. Over time, the area transitioned from elite residences to tenements, reflecting broader social changes in Edinburgh as the upper classes moved to the New Town.

Preservation of Edinburgh’s Old Town Character

Advocate's Close exemplifies Edinburgh’s unique urban form, with its network of closes and wynds that create intimate, historic passageways. The preservation and sensitive redevelopment of Advocate's Close maintain this character while integrating modern uses. It remains a vivid reminder of the city’s medieval past and the social history embedded in its streets, offering visitors a tangible connection to Edinburgh’s evolving story.

Photographic and Cultural Significance

The close is a popular subject for photographers due to its dramatic perspective and historic ambiance. Its cobbled steps and stone buildings provide a quintessential Old Town backdrop. Visitors often pause to absorb the atmosphere, imagining the lives of those who once lived and worked here. Advocate's Close stands as both a cultural landmark and a living part of Edinburgh’s vibrant heritage.