The Flodden Wall: Edinburgh’s Medieval Sentinel
Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
The Flodden Wall is a historic 16th-century defensive barrier built around Edinburgh following the devastating Scottish defeat at the Battle of Flodden in 1513. Completed in 1560, this sandstone wall once enclosed the city’s Old Town, protecting its 10,000 inhabitants from feared English invasion and controlling trade and smuggling. Today, surviving fragments near Greyfriars Kirkyard, the Vennel, and Drummond Street stand as evocative reminders of Edinburgh’s turbulent past and medieval urban fabric.
A brief summary to Flodden Wall
- 1 Vennel, Edinburgh, EH1 2HU, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard to see one of the best-preserved sections of the Flodden Wall amidst historic tombstones.
- Look for cobbled lines and plaques near the Vennel and Drummond Street that trace the original course of the wall.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Edinburgh’s Old Town to appreciate how the wall influenced the city’s vertical growth.
- Learn about the Battle of Flodden and its impact on Scotland’s history to deepen your understanding of the wall’s significance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 23 or 27 from Edinburgh city center to stops near Greyfriars Kirkyard or the Grassmarket area. Journey time is approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently from early morning until late evening. Tickets cost around £1.80–£2.00.
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Walking
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, a 20-25 minute walk through the Old Town leads to the Flodden Wall sections near Greyfriars Kirkyard and the Vennel. The terrain is cobbled and uneven in places, so wear comfortable shoes. The route is accessible but may be challenging for some wheelchair users.
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Taxi
Taxis from central Edinburgh to the Flodden Wall area take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £6 to £10. Taxis provide door-to-door convenience and are available 24/7.
Flodden Wall 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Flodden Wall
Origins Born of Conflict and Fear
The Flodden Wall was constructed in the aftermath of the catastrophic Battle of Flodden in 1513, where King James IV of Scotland and thousands of Scots lost their lives. This defeat left Edinburgh vulnerable to an anticipated English invasion. To protect the city, the authorities commissioned a new, more extensive defensive wall, completed in 1560, encasing approximately 140 acres of the Old Town. The wall was built largely by women, children, and older citizens, as many men had perished in the battle or were away at war.Architecture and Defensive Role
Made from local sandstone laid in a random rubble style, the Flodden Wall stood about 24 feet tall and was punctuated by defensive towers and six guarded gates, or ports. While it was not impregnable to a determined siege, the wall served as a formidable barrier that helped control access, regulate trade, and prevent smuggling. It also played a role in protecting the city during the turbulent 16th century, including times when Edinburgh Castle was besieged.Impact on Edinburgh’s Urban Development
The wall’s enclosure limited outward expansion, forcing the city’s population of about 10,000 to build upwards within its confines. This vertical growth contributed to Edinburgh’s distinctive Old Town skyline, with its tall tenements and narrow closes. Over time, the wall became less militarily relevant and more a boundary shaping the city’s medieval character.Decline and Preservation of Remnants
By the 18th century, the Flodden Wall had become an obstacle to urban growth and was gradually dismantled to make way for new roads and buildings, including parts of the University of Edinburgh. Some sections were destroyed by natural causes, such as a lightning strike near Greyfriars Kirkyard. Today, fragments remain protected as scheduled monuments, notably around Greyfriars Kirkyard, the Vennel, Drummond Street, and the Pleasance, offering tangible links to Edinburgh’s fortified past.Cultural Legacy and Historical Significance
The Flodden Wall symbolizes Edinburgh’s resilience following one of Scotland’s darkest military defeats. It stands as a silent witness to the city’s medieval history, its fears, and its adaptations. Literary figures like Walter Scott commemorated the Battle of Flodden and its aftermath, embedding the wall and its story in Scotland’s cultural memory. Walking along surviving sections invites reflection on the city’s layered history and the lives of those who built and lived within its protective embrace.Exploring the Wall Today
Visitors can view the Flodden Wall fragments in several locations, including the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard and the narrow Vennel near the Grassmarket. These sites reveal the rugged texture of the sandstone and the scale of the defensive structure. Interpretive plaques and cobbled lines in the pavement mark the wall’s original path, connecting modern Edinburgh with its medieval roots and offering a unique historical experience in the heart of the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Flodden Wall
0.0 km
Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
0.3 km
Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.4 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
George IV Bridge
0.4 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
National Museum of Scotland
0.4 km
Discover Scotland's rich heritage at the National Museum of Scotland, an engaging cultural hub showcasing the nation's history and identity.
Gladstone's Land
0.4 km
Explore the historic charm of Gladstone's Land in Edinburgh, a captivating glimpse into Scotland's rich past with delightful cafes and stunning architecture.
Lawnmarket
0.4 km
Discover Lawnmarket, a historic street in Edinburgh rich in culture, shopping, and stunning medieval architecture, perfect for an unforgettable visit.
Lady Stair's House
0.4 km
Explore Lady Stair's House: A historic 17th-century building in Edinburgh celebrating Scotland's rich literary heritage and home to the Scottish Poetry Library.
The Writers' Museum
0.4 km
Explore The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh, a tribute to Scotland's literary greats and a treasure trove for literature lovers seeking inspiration.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.4 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Lady Stair's Close
0.5 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.
David Hume Statue
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
0.5 km
Edinburgh's Renaissance masterpiece: where academic tradition meets architectural brilliance since 1897.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.5 km
Explore the historical beauty of Edinburgh with a visit to the Statue of the Fifth Duke of Buccleuch, a remarkable sculpture steeped in Scottish heritage.
Supreme Courts
0.5 km
Explore Scotland’s historic Supreme Courts housed in Edinburgh’s iconic Parliament House, a living symbol of justice since 1532.
Unmissable attractions to see
21 Grassmarket
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s historic Grassmarket: a lively medieval marketplace beneath the castle, rich in stories, culture, and timeless charm.
Grassmarket
0.1 km
Historic Edinburgh square blending medieval markets, dark past, and vibrant modern culture beneath the iconic castle.
The Comedy Attic
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant comedy scene in the intimate attic of the historic Beehive Inn with top comedians and lively atmosphere.
61 Grassmarket
0.2 km
Historic 61 Grassmarket in Edinburgh’s Old Town blends centuries of market heritage, dramatic history, and vibrant culture beneath Edinburgh Castle’s watchful gaze.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.2 km
Discover the grave that inspired Lord Voldemort’s name in Edinburgh’s historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, a must-visit for Harry Potter fans and history enthusiasts alike.
Great Hall
0.3 km
Step into the majestic Great Hall of Edinburgh Castle, a stunning medieval chamber showcasing royal history, architecture, and armory.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
0.3 km
Historic artillery batteries shaping Edinburgh Castle’s iconic silhouette with panoramic city views and centuries of military heritage.
Royal Palace
0.3 km
Explore the Royal Palace of Edinburgh, a majestic historical landmark rich in Scottish heritage and royal history, offering breathtaking views and captivating exhibitions.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s whisky heritage through immersive tours, tastings, and one of the world’s largest Scotch whisky collections on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Cadies & Witchery Tours
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s dark past through thrilling, theatrical walking tours blending history, mystery, and spooky fun on Victoria Street.
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, a hauntingly beautiful cemetery rich with history, legends, and literary inspiration.
The Witches Well
0.3 km
Explore The Witches Well in Edinburgh, a historical landmark steeped in folklore, offering a captivating glimpse into the city's dark past.
Scottish National War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute within Edinburgh Castle honoring Scotland’s fallen heroes from World War I to today.
The India Cross
0.3 km
A solemn Celtic cross memorial honoring the 78th Highlanders who fell during the Indian Rebellion, set against Edinburgh Castle’s historic Esplanade.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s historic Camera Obscura and five floors of mind-bending illusions with stunning rooftop views of the city.
Essential places to dine
Beehive Inn
0.1 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
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.
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.
Maison Bleue
0.3 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
TIMBERYARD
0.3 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
Under The Stairs
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.4 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Howies Restaurant
0.4 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
0.4 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
The Cellar Door
0.4 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Ondine Restaurant
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Söderberg The Meadows
0.4 km
Authentic Scandinavian bakery and café near Edinburgh University, famed for cardamom buns, sourdough breads, and a cozy fika atmosphere.
Whiski Rooms
0.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
Makars Mash Bar
0.5 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Godiva
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.2 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Herman Brown
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.3 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.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.3 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
The Court Curio Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Olde Edinburgh
0.4 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
Heritage of Scotland
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Edinburgh Art Shop
0.4 km
Edinburgh Art Shop offers a warm, expert-led art supply experience with quality materials and a creative community spirit in the heart of Edinburgh.
I Love Scotland
0.5 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Poundland
0.6 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Fringe Shop
0.6 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dragonfly
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Bow Bar
0.3 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
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.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.4 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
SKYbar Edinburgh
0.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
The Three Sisters
0.5 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
The Raging Bull
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
Innis & Gunn Edinburgh City Centre Brewery Taproom
0.5 km
A vibrant craft beer haven in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for Scottish steak frites and an extensive rotating tap selection.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
NQ64 Edinburgh
0.6 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
Copper Still
0.6 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Captain's Bar
0.6 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
0.7 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Liquid Room
0.3 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
0.4 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Mash House
0.6 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Club Tropicana
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
La Belle Angele
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.7 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 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.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.7 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
El Barrio Latino
0.8 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.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Opal Lounge
0.8 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Why Not Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
