Riddle’s Court / Riddle’s Close

Riddle’s Court / Riddle’s Close discover

Historic courtyard complex on Lawnmarket with restored ceilings, royal banquet history, and ties to Patrick Geddes.

Riddle’s Close opens into a courtyard complex that Bailie John McMorran assembled around 1590 from existing structures and new connections into a prestigious residence. The Scottish Historic Buildings Trust outlines a sequence of rooms spanning multiple buildings. The royal banquet for James VI and Anne of Denmark in 1598 is a central milestone in its architectural and living history.

Later modifications associate the site with Patrick Geddes and his educational work. Restored ceilings, paneling, and historic rooms span several centuries. Precision is needed regarding David Hume: Edinburgh World Heritage mentions a stay in 1751, while the Trust's room guide indicates he lived nearby. Claiming a specific surviving room as his residence is not justified. Interior visits and events are subject to the offerings of the managing Trust.

What to Expect

• Historic courtyard
• Painted and plasterwork ceilings
• Royal reception history
• Patrick Geddes connection

Plan Your Visit

Origins

Remodeled around 1590 by John McMorran.

Royal Visit

Banquet in 1598 for James VI and Anne of Denmark.

Reconstruction

George Riddell altered the Lawnmarket section in 1726.

Preservation

Restoration by the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust.

Access

Check interior tours and events with the Trust

Tips for Your Visit

• Only plan to visit the interiors as part of scheduled tours or events.
• Check directly with the Trust for current access hours.
• Not all historic floors are automatically step-free accessible.

Here You’ll Find Riddle’s Court / Riddle’s Close

322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PG