Riddell's court is an example of a fortified close.

Looking through this narrow alley you can just make out the double courtyard, where in 1593 James VI (1566 - 1625) held a grand banquet for the nobles of the Danish embassy.

There is also a 16th century house which has a wooden staircase on the outside, typical of this period. It was here that a Bailie John McMorran, who taught at Edinburgh High School, lived.

However his claim to fame was being shot dead by the boys of the school in 1595 who were protesting after he refused them a holiday!