White Horse Close Edinburgh
Discover White Horse Close, a beautifully preserved 17th-century inn and former stables tucked away off Edinburgh's Royal Mile.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
White Horse Close Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover White Horse Close, a beautifully preserved 17th-century inn and former stables tucked away off Edinburgh's Royal Mile.
"A gorgeous hidden place at the foot of the Royal Mile, often missed by tourists."
🎯 Find the Entrance
Look for the unassuming alleyway off the Royal Mile; it's easy to miss but worth the discovery!
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
This close is a photographer's dream for capturing Edinburgh's historic charm.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Horse Close Courtyard
Off the Royal Mile
A beautifully preserved 17th-century inn and former stables, offering a peaceful escape with historic charm.
Historic Inn Architecture
White Horse Close
Admire the unique stonework and architecture of this former coaching inn, a testament to Edinburgh's rich history.
Royal Mile's Secret Charm
Off the Royal Mile
Experience a quieter side of Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile by discovering this tucked-away, picturesque close.
Planning Your Visit
Discover Edinburgh's Hidden Courtyards
Timing Your Royal Mile Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find the Entrance
Look for the unassuming alleyway off the Royal Mile; it's easy to miss but worth the discovery!
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
This close is a photographer's dream for capturing Edinburgh's historic charm.
🤫 Quiet Escape
A peaceful retreat from the Royal Mile's hustle and bustle.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine with Dunbar's Close for a perfect historical walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find the Entrance
Look for the unassuming alleyway off the Royal Mile; it's easy to miss but worth the discovery!
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
This close is a photographer's dream for capturing Edinburgh's historic charm.
🤫 Quiet Escape
A peaceful retreat from the Royal Mile's hustle and bustle.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine with Dunbar's Close for a perfect historical walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise White Horse Close as a charming and atmospheric hidden gem off the Royal Mile. Its historical significance as a former coaching inn and its well-preserved architecture are major draws, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds. Some find it a bit tricky to locate, but the discovery is well worth the effort.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
White Horse Close is conveniently located just off the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town. Look for a narrow alleyway entrance between the main shops and attractions. It's a hidden gem that's easily accessible on foot. 
It can be a bit tricky to spot as it's tucked away. Keep an eye out for a small, unassuming entrance off the Royal Mile. Many visitors discover it by chance or by following local recommendations.
Yes, the Royal Mile is well-served by numerous bus routes. Once you alight near the Royal Mile, White Horse Close is a short walk away.
Parking directly at White Horse Close is not possible as it's a pedestrian-only close. The nearest public car parks are a short walk away, but it's recommended to use public transport or walk if possible.
Many visitors find it best to explore the Royal Mile and then actively look for the smaller closes branching off. White Horse Close is often mentioned alongside other charming closes like Dunbar's Close.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, White Horse Close is a public thoroughfare and does not require an entrance ticket. You can explore its historic courtyard freely.
As it's an open courtyard, White Horse Close is generally accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and photography.
There is no admission fee to enter White Horse Close. It's a free historical site to explore as part of your Edinburgh wanderings.
While technically accessible, visiting at night might be less safe and offer limited visibility. It's best enjoyed during daylight hours to appreciate its historical details.
There are no specific restrictions, but as it's a historic site, visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the architecture and any residents.
📸 📸 Photography & History
White Horse Close dates back to the 17th century and was historically the site of a well-known coaching inn, the White Horse Inn. It also served as stables for the Palace of Holyrood House.
Its unique architecture, charming courtyard, and historical atmosphere make it a fantastic spot for photography, offering a different perspective from the main Royal Mile.
The White Horse Inn was a prominent coaching inn, providing a resting place for travelers and their horses, and a place for refreshment. It was a vital part of Edinburgh's transport network in its time.
Yes, Edinburgh is famous for its 'closes' (narrow alleyways). Other notable ones include Dunbar's Close, Lady Stair's Close, and Riddles Court, all offering unique historical insights.
No, White Horse Close is located lower down the Royal Mile and does not offer direct views of Edinburgh Castle. Its charm lies in its own historical architecture and atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Combine this visit with a short walk through nearby Dunbar's Close Garden for a bit of green space. It's a great way to add a touch of history and nature to your family's Edinburgh adventure without requiring a long commitment.
📸 Photographers
+1Pro-Tip: Visit during the 'golden hour' in the late afternoon for soft, warm light that enhances the textures and colors of the historic stonework. Early mornings also offer fewer people and a serene ambiance.
🚶♀️ History Buffs
Must-Do: Take a moment to read any informational plaques and imagine the bustling activity of travelers and horses that once filled this space. It's a small but significant piece of Edinburgh's rich historical tapestry.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Edinburgh's Historic Closes
+1These closes often served practical purposes, from housing businesses and inns to providing access to residential buildings. Many have unique names and historical anecdotes attached to them. Exploring them is like peeling back layers of history, revealing a more intimate and less crowded side of the city.
When visiting White Horse Close, take your time to appreciate the stonework, the layout, and imagine the lives of those who passed through centuries ago. It's a reminder that Edinburgh's most captivating experiences are often found just a few steps away from the main tourist paths.
+1The History of White Horse Close
+1Before becoming an inn, the site also served as stables for the Palace of Holyrood House, indicating its importance in the city's infrastructure. Coaching inns were vital hubs for travelers, offering accommodation, food, and care for their horses, making them central to travel and commerce in their era.
Today, White Horse Close stands as a beautifully preserved example of this historical period. Its architecture and atmosphere transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into the daily life and travel conditions of 17th and 18th century Edinburgh. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone looking to discover Edinburgh's hidden historical gems.
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