Library Item

View down to the Writers' Museum from Lady Stair's Close, Edinburgh

2007

Lady Stair's Close is situated on the north side of the Lawnmarket. It derives its name from Elizabeth, Countess Dowager of Stair, widow of John, 1st Earl of Stair, who lived in the close between 1719-31. The earlier name of Gray's Close comes from her grandparents, Sir William Gray and Lady Geida or Egidia Gray, who also lived in the close. Lady Stair's House was built as a home for Sir William Gray and his wife in 1622 and was also the residence of his granddaughter Elizabeth. The building is now home to the Writer's Museum.