Anchor Close Travel Guide

Anchor Close is one of the many ancient closes—narrow alleyways—that characterize Edinburgh’s Old Town. Located off Cockburn Street, which was constructed in the mid-19th century to improve access between the Royal Mile and Waverley Station, Anchor Close retains a medieval atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling street nearby. This close is a physical reminder of Edinburgh’s layered urban fabric, where historic lanes survive beneath and alongside newer developments.

Cockburn Street itself is renowned for its Scots Baronial style, featuring distinctive towers, turrets with conical 'witches’ hat' roofs, and crowstep gables carved from the city’s soft sandstone. These architectural details, visible on buildings lining the street and near Anchor Close, reflect the 19th-century redevelopment that reshaped much of the Old Town. The street’s design cleverly navigates a steep four-storey decline, creating a unique urban experience where history and Victorian-era aesthetics meet.

The street and by extension the close are named after Lord Henry Cockburn, a prominent 19th-century Scottish judge and conservationist. His efforts to preserve Edinburgh’s historic buildings inspired the founding of the Cockburn Association, a key heritage organization. His carved stone head still adorns the former Cockburn Hotel building on Cockburn Street, now home to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo offices, symbolizing his enduring influence on the city’s architectural preservation.

Anchor Close and the surrounding area are steeped in history, with nearby lanes like Fleshmarket Close recalling Edinburgh’s medieval markets and trades. The close’s proximity to the City Chambers, built atop Mary King’s Close, connects visitors to tales of Edinburgh’s past, including its preserved underground streets. The area has also featured in popular culture, such as the filming of Avengers: Infinity War and literary works like Ian Rankin’s Inspector Rebus series.

Today, Cockburn Street is a lively, characterful street filled with independent shops, cafes, restaurants, and boutiques that attract locals and visitors alike. Anchor Close offers a quieter, atmospheric retreat from the street’s bustle, allowing visitors to experience the Old Town’s intimate scale and historic charm. The blend of old and new makes this area a microcosm of Edinburgh’s unique urban identity.

Visitors to Anchor Close can appreciate the intricate stone carvings and architectural details above street level, a hallmark of the area’s craftsmanship. The close’s narrow, shadowed passageway invites exploration and reflection on Edinburgh’s medieval past. Its connection to Cockburn Street ensures easy access to the Royal Mile and other key Old Town landmarks, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in history, architecture, and the city’s cultural narrative.