Nick Drainey - The Extra Mile

Published on Thursday 5 June 2008 13:21

Dunbar's Close Garden, Edinburgh

A tranquil garden in the heart of the city.

Any tourist in Edinburgh will at some point journey along the world-famous Royal Mile. From the Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, it has attracted visitors for centuries.

But few are aware of a little portion of peace and quiet, only a stone's throw from the busy thoroughfare.

About 50 yards down the hill from Canongate Kirk (where the Queen goes to church) is Dunbar's Close - on the same side, immediately after the Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe. Go down its cobbled stones to emerge at a haven of peace.

Looked after by the City of Edinburgh Council, Dunbar's Close Garden is laid out like a 17th century Edinburgh garden. It was created in 1977 and donated to the city by the Mushroom Trust to promote urban gardens.

The name Dunbar comes from the Edinburgh writer David Dunbar, who owned tenements on either side of the close in the 18th century. Neatly trimmed yew hedges grow above flowers and herbs while fruit trees offer shade if you are lucky enough to get a warm, sunny day.

Beyond it rises Calton Hill with the imposing buildings of the former Royal High School below.

Benches and lawns mean it is great place to take your lunch if you work in the city, or a picnic if you are enjoying a day out.

Linger here for only a short time and you can easily forget you are in Scotland's bustling capital.