Our Top 5 Old Town Hidden Gems

Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town is steeped in history, mystery and stories. Explore its narrow closes, climb its many steps, wander its curved, cobbled streets and you’ll find surprises in every corner.  

Step back in time in this wee tour and discover these charming secret spots in Edinburgh’s Old Town. 

Boswells Court Castlehill

Starting just steps down from Edinburgh Castle, at the top of the Royal Mile, this magical little lane, leading to the famously gothic and atmospheric Witchery and Secret Garden restaurants, is always stunningly decorated for the season. Spectacular, adorned with fir at Christmas and spilling over with pumpkins in Autumn, it’s a little corner of Edinburgh that always sparks joy.  

Victoria Terrace Old Town

Take a short detour down cobbled Upper Bow, and onto the gently curving sweep of Victoria Terrace and discover a great example of Edinburgh’s fascinating layers of architecture. From here you can look down onto iconic Victoria Street in all its glory-the colourful shops, the Flemish inspired architecture, the gorgeous curve of the street and fall in love with the city all over again. 

Lady Stairs Close Royal Mile

One of our favourite spots in Old Town. Back on the Royal Mile, take a few steps down the narrow and dark Lady Stairs Close and you’ll be met with a charming sight. It opens out onto a courtyard, with the prettiest 17th century building, The Writers Museum, with its turret and Juliet balcony, which houses Robert Burns’ writing desk-how's that for inspiration? To top it off, the courtyard also features Narnia-vibe oil-lit street lanterns from days gone by when lanterns were lit by lamplighters. You can just imagine the atmospheric glow in the misty evenings. What’s not to love?  

Chessels Court Canongate

Carry on wandering down the Mile and take a quick detour into Chessels Court. You’ll think you’re on the wrong path until you reach a cute little square with the most romantic of houses, with its stone steps and pretty windows, where the owner has lovingly cultivated the ivy into an affectionate message on one of its walls. 

White Horse Close Canongate

Head back onto the Mile until you’ve almost reached the foot and the Palace is in sight. Tucked away down another hidden alleyway, enter White Horse Close, and feel like you’ve time-travelled. It leads into a courtyard surrounded by 17th buildings. The White Horse Inn, established here in 1623, sat at the far end of the courtyard and was the departure point for the horse-drawn stagecoaches that ran between Edinburgh, Newcastle and London.  

We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring some of our favourite hidden gems in the city and let us know if we’ve missed out one of your favourite corners!! Check back in soon for some more Edinburgh insider tips.