Edinburgh’s hidden streets are part of the charm of the city, tourists and locals say.
Libberton’s Wynd is a forgotten street that lies between the walls of the George IV Bridge and the National Library of Scotland, giving a glimpse into how Edinburgh looked centuries ago.
.. Although it was demolished in 1830 to make way for the construction of the George IV Bridge, a corridor of this 15th century road remains to this day.
The remains, named ‘The Void’ and other ancient Edinburgh streets give visitors a peek into what Edinburgh used to look like.
Tour Guide for Brujula Free Tours, Anders, says these streets, closes, and wynds are one of the main reasons tourists choose to visit Edinburgh.
“I incorporate the old closes in my tours because they are a perfect depiction of the city’s history,” says Anders.
Although The Void, which can be found between the bridge walls and the library building, is closed to the public, there are other accessible closes which are old, narrow enclosed alleyways.
Anders says one of the alleyways he commonly includes in his tours is Advocate’s Close, located just off the Royal Mile.
Advocate’s Close connects High Street with Cockburn Street. It was once considered a fashionable part of town for the high-class people of Scotland.
Although it’s been redeveloped in the 21st-century, Anders says that Advocate’s Close is still steeped in historic charm, attracting tourists year-round.
For University of Glasgow student Vicki Qu, the streets and closes located in Edinburgh’s Old Town are part of the reason she loves visiting the city.
“The old streets are what keep bringing me back to Edinburgh,” says Qu.
Canadian traveler Meng Meun Young is visiting Scotland for the first time and says she is amazed by the “beautifully gothic architecture” in Edinburgh.
“During this trip, I also learned that Scotland has laws and regulations in place to protect the original build and design of the buildings,” says Young.
Certain listed buildings, monuments, and other buildings located in conservation areas of Edinburgh are protected by Historic Environment Scotland, which ensures any changes don’t ruin their historic feel, which Young said she really appreciated.
Even University of Edinburgh student, Campbell Lund who currently lives in Edinburgh says she remains fascinated by the history found in the city and down the old streets.
“Exploring the Old Town never gets old,” says Lund. “There are surprises around every corner and every close.”