Circus Lane

Circus Lane is a short cobbled mews in Stockbridge, on the northern edge of Edinburgh's New Town, and one of the city's most photographed residential streets. The lane runs behind the grand Georgian terraces and curves gently downhill, lined with small stone houses that were once stables and coach houses for the larger homes nearby. Window boxes, climbing plants and doorstep flowers give it a soft, village-like character, particularly in spring and summer. Looking down the lane, the spire of St Stephen's Church closes the view, creating the composition most visitors come to see. The street is entirely residential, so there are no shops, ticketed attractions or facilities, and visitors are expected to walk through quietly and avoid blocking doorways or peering into windows. A visit takes only 15 to 20 minutes, although many people combine it with a wander through Stockbridge, which has independent shops, cafes and a Sunday market, and a walk along the nearby Water of Leith. The lane is quiet in the early morning, when the light is soft and few people are about, and it becomes busier mid-morning and in the afternoon as photographers and tour groups arrive. Cobbles are uneven, so footwear with grip is useful, especially after rain. The lane is in the Stockbridge area, a short walk from Dean Village and the Royal Botanic Garden. There is no admission fee and no opening hours, since it is a public street.