Advocates Close Viewpoint Edinburgh
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
Best light for photos
Advocates Close Viewpoint Edinburgh
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A narrow, historic Edinburgh close offering a perfectly framed, magical view of the Scott Monument.
"This close looked great, offering a view of the new town and the Scott Monument."
👟 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:
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.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Atmosphere
Discover Hidden Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 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:
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. :ghost:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good opportunity to talk about history and how cities used to be built. The unique view of the Scott Monument can also be a point of interest. Keep the visit brief to maintain engagement, and perhaps combine it with a stop at a nearby ice cream shop or a less strenuous attraction on the Royal Mile.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for dramatic lighting, or even at dusk for a more atmospheric, moody shot. Be prepared for potentially uneven surfaces and low light conditions if visiting after dark. The textures of the old stone walls also offer great opportunities for detail shots.
🚶 Solo Explorers
It's also a great place to simply observe the city's architecture and imagine its past. The proximity to the Royal Mile means you can easily incorporate it into a walking tour, finding a moment of peace before diving back into the main attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Edinburgh's Closes
Many of these closes have a slightly spooky or mysterious aura, especially as dusk settles. They were often dark, damp, and filled with the sounds of city life, contributing to Edinburgh's reputation for ghost stories and folklore. Advocates Close, with its atmospheric nature, perfectly embodies this historic charm. It's a reminder that even the most bustling cities have quiet, forgotten corners waiting to be discovered.
When exploring Advocates Close, take a moment to appreciate the architecture and imagine the lives of those who walked these paths centuries ago. It's a brief but impactful experience that adds depth to any visit to Edinburgh, offering a contrast to the grander sights like Edinburgh Castle.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Advocates Close Viewpoint
To get the best photographs, consider visiting during different times of day. Daylight provides clear, crisp images, while the 'golden hour' just before sunset can cast a warm, dramatic glow on the scene. Evenings can offer a more atmospheric, moody shot, though lighting will be a challenge. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and the potentially slippery steps when setting up your shot.
Beyond the main view, experiment with capturing the textures of the old stone walls, the play of light and shadow within the close, and the sense of depth. It’s these details that truly bring the experience of Advocates Close to life in your photographs.
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