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Advocates Close Viewpoint Edinburgh

4.5

·143 reviews·, United Kingdom

A narrow, historic Edinburgh close offering a perfectly framed, magical view of the Scott Monument.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium

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Advocates Close Viewpoint Edinburgh

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A narrow, historic Edinburgh close offering a perfectly framed, magical view of the Scott Monument.

4.5

(143 reviews)

"This close looked great, offering a view of the new town and the Scott Monument."

TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The steps can be steep and slippery, especially when wet. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the unique framed view of the Scott Monument. :camerawithflash:

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 143 reviews

Type

Tourist Attraction

Address

Edinburgh EH1 1ND, UK

Website

edinburgh.gov.uk

👶 Good for kids

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scott Monument View

End of the close facing Princes Street Gardens

A perfectly framed, almost magical glimpse of the iconic Scott Monument.

Historic Alleyway Charm

The entire length of the close

Wander through this atmospheric, narrow passage with centuries of history.

Gateway to the Royal Mile

Entrance from the Royal Mile

Discover this hidden gem tucked away from the main thoroughfare.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Atmosphere

Advocates Close offers a glimpse into Edinburgh's historic heart. This narrow, atmospheric alleyway is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes. Be mindful of the steps, especially when wet, as they can be slippery.

Discover Hidden Views

While not a grand vista, Advocates Close provides a unique, framed perspective of the Scott Monument. It's a perfect spot for a quick photo op and to soak in the city's charm, often overlooked by those rushing along the Royal Mile.

Best Times

When

Daytime

Why

Best light for photos

Crowd

Medium

When

Evening

Why

Spooky, ghost-haunted vibe

Crowd

Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The perfect Edinburgh Scotland Itinerary! It’s like Hogwarts in real life and is even better than I imagined!! Here are some of my favorite things to do during a weekend in Edinburgh! P.s. While we do mentiom Harry Potter a few times, we do not support JK and she makes no money off of this!! #e#edinburghs#Scotlands#scotlandtravele#edinburghscotlandh#harrypotterh#hogwartsd#diagonalleyw#weekendg...

@followmeaway

240.9K likes • 4.4M views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The steps can be steep and slippery, especially when wet. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the unique framed view of the Scott Monument. :camerawithflash:

Hidden gems of Edinburgh When people think of Edinburgh they often picture the Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle. But anyone who has spent a lot of time in this city will know there are many other local spots that make this city worth a visit. So, we’ve collated five of our favourite hidden gems for visitors looking to experience the city like a local: 📍Jupiter Artland - spend a day w...

@traveltwo

128.1K likes • 1.7M views

EDINBURGH - ADVOCATES CLOSE Not all closes in Edinburgh whisper their secrets—but this one does. Step into Advocates Close, a shadowy passageway winding back to 1544, where history lingers in the damp stone and echoes in the quiet. Once home to lawyers and city officials, its twisting path now leads to one of the most unique views of the Scott Monument—a perfectly framed glimpse of the towering ...

thebelletraveller

239 likes • 2.7K views

🤫 Keep it Quiet

This atmospheric close is best enjoyed with a sense of quiet discovery. :shushing_face:

📍 Find it on the Royal Mile

Look for it tucked between buildings on the famous Royal Mile. :world_map:

Advocates Close - off the Royal mile, Edinburgh has multiple “closes” to explore. Advocates close is a narrow and steep alley in Edinburgh of medieval origin, redeveloped in the early 21st century. Looking toward Scott’s Monument across Princes Street Gardens. #advocatesclose #advocatescloseedinburgh #advocatesclosescotland #scotland #scotlandtravel #edinburgh #edinburghcity #royalmile #royalmil...

changeofplans2021

75 likes • 1.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The steps can be steep and slippery, especially when wet. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the unique framed view of the Scott Monument. :camerawithflash:

🤫 Keep it Quiet

This atmospheric close is best enjoyed with a sense of quiet discovery. :shushing_face:

📍 Find it on the Royal Mile

Look for it tucked between buildings on the famous Royal Mile. :world_map:

👻 Spooky at Night

Experience its historic, ghost-haunted charm after dark. 👻

What Travellers Say

4.5

(143 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Advocates Close a charming and atmospheric historic alleyway, offering a unique, framed view of the Scott Monument. While some note the steep steps and potential for slipperiness, most agree it's a worthwhile detour from the Royal Mile for its historic feel and photographic potential.

"Didn't know this is a tourist destination fist time I walked it. Quite a steep walk, but worth the view. The Royal Mile has many of these closes, but this one looked great. You can see the new town and the Scott Monument from it, and it lead down right to Market Street."

Renata Hanko

"It's your classic historic Edinburgh spooky, ghost haunted close, especially at night. There were a few famous Edinburgh residents who have lived here in the past, and it's the way to the Devils Advocate bar. Watch the steps, especially when wet."

Berglas71

"Really nice.. there's lots of close in Royal Mile Street but I would say I like this one most... Opposite you can see beautiful view of Scott Monument... Down there is the train station 🚉 😀 and you can take beautiful pictures 📸 and hanging around many time.. 😉Lots of magic show and people showing their different talents near by the Royal Mile Street was amazing... if I get chance to go back.. I will... Highly recommend to visit 👌"

Neha Chachra

What People Like

Unique Scott Monument view

Historic atmosphere

Hidden gem feel

What People Dislike

Steep, slippery steps

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Advocates Close is conveniently located off the Royal Mile, one of Edinburgh's most famous streets. You can easily walk to it from most central locations in the Old Town. Look for the narrow entrance between buildings on the Royal Mile.

While there isn't direct public transport into the close itself, it's easily reachable by bus or tram to the Royal Mile area. From there, it's a short walk.

The closest parking is typically at the multi-storey car parks near Waverley Station, such as the Waverley Car Park. From there, it's a short walk up to the Royal Mile.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Advocates Close is a public passageway and is free to enter and explore at any time.

Advocates Close is accessible 24/7, though it's recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and better photo opportunities. It can feel quite spooky at night.

📸 📸 Photography

Daylight hours offer the best natural light for capturing the close and its unique view of the Scott Monument. Golden hour can also provide beautiful, dramatic lighting.

The primary photo opportunity is the framed view of the Scott Monument. You can also capture the atmospheric narrowness of the close itself.

Yes, you can take photos at night, but be aware that it can be very dark and potentially spooky. Use a tripod for better low-light shots.

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Advocates Close is known for its historic, narrow, and atmospheric passageway, offering a unique, framed view of the Scott Monument and a sense of stepping back in time.

While it's a recognized spot, it's generally less crowded than the main Royal Mile. It's a 'hidden gem' that many visitors discover as they explore.

The close features cobblestones and steps, which can be steep and uneven. It's important to watch your step, especially when wet.

Yes, the close leads to or is near establishments like The Devil's Advocate bar, offering a place to relax after exploring.