image copyright Rachel Windsor

This close was once known as Shaw Close, and is now named for George Riddell who rebuilt here from 1726.  It has also been known as Macmorran’s Close for Bailie Macmorran who built his mansion here in 1591.  In time past, the close was the home of David Hume, as well as the famous witches, Mayor Weir and his sister Grizell.  Patrick Geddes opened a summer school here, and the inscription Vivendo Discimus was chosen by him.