Anchor Close

Anchor Close discover

Historic stepped close with an inscribed lintel, tavern history, and ties to Burns and William Smellie.

Anchor Close is documented in the heritage archives at 243 High Street. The name is attested in 1714 and is traced back to a tavern existing before 1703. In the passageway, the religious inscription “Lord be merciful to me” is among the surviving details; the archive dates the reused lintel to the 17th century.

The close is also linked to William Smellie, printer of Burns’ first Edinburgh edition in 1787, and to the lively Crochallan Fencibles club. Regarding the Encyclopaedia Britannica, a distinction must be made between Smellie’s editorial role, his printing shop location, and the actual printing of a specific edition. The verified archival source does not confirm that the first Britannica was printed right here.

What to Expect

• Inscribed lintel
• Tavern history
• Connection to William Smellie
• Burns and print culture

Plan Your Visit

Location

243 High Street.

Last name

Anchor Close documented since 1714.

Architecture

Lintel with a 17th-century religious inscription.

Printing history

Smellie printed Burns’ Edinburgh edition in 1787.

Access

Check current access notices on site

Tips for Your Visit

• Access from High Street.
• Watch your step on narrow or stepped sections.
• View historic inscriptions only from accessible public areas.

Here You’ll Find Anchor Close

243 High Street, Anchor Close, Edinburgh