Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Greyfriars Kirkyard
Hemmed in by high walls and overlooked by the castle, Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of
Edinburgh's most evocative spots, a peaceful green oasis dotted with elaborate
monuments. Many famous Edinburgh names are buried here, including poet Allan
Ramsay (1686-1758), and William Smellie (1740-95), editor of the first edition of
Encyclopaedia Britannica.
Cowgate
The Cowgate - the long, dark ravine leading eastwards from the Grassmarket - was
once the road along which cattle were driven from the pastures around Arthur's Seat
to the safety of the city walls, or to be sold at market. To the right are the new law
courts, followed by Tailors Hall (built 1621, extended 1757), now a hotel and bar but
formerly the meeting place of the 'Companie of Tailzeours' (Tailors' Guild).
South Bridge Vaults
South Bridge passes over the Cowgate in a single arch, but there are another nine
arches hidden on either side, surrounded by later buildings. The ones to the north can
be visited on a guided tour with Mercat Tours (
Click here
)
; those to the south are
occupied by a nightclub, The Caves (
Click here
)
.
