Beneath the City Chambers on the Royal Mile lies Edinburgh’s deepest secret. Imagine a warren of streets frozen in time, where centuries of stories are just waiting to be told. Discover authentic truths about Edinburgh’s dark past, and find out what it was really like for the people who lived, worked, and died on the Close between the 16th and the 19th Centuries.

A time capsule of streets beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile bringing history to life.

Experience over 400 years of history on a one-hour tour led by a character tour guide depicting a former resident of the Close. You will delve below to learn the real stories from Edinburgh’s incredible past between the 16th and 19th centuries. Your experience at The Real Mary King’s Close will be brought to life by one of our costumed character tour guides impersonating former residents of the Old Town’s closes.

Unlock the secrets of Edinburgh’s only preserved 17th-century street, get under the skin of the plague, learn why it was wise to avoid the streets at 7am and 10pm, hear the stories of the people who lived, worked and died on these streets and discover how all social classes lived together stacked on top of each other in tenements that are said to have been the world’s first skyscrapers!

Despite being shrouded in myths and legends of haunted happenings and unexplained occurrences, The Real Mary King’s Close offers guests an authentic insight into the social history of these uniquely preserved streets and houses.

Private Tours are also available at The Real Mary King’s Close, for you and up to 17 additional guests. Our Private Tours give you the perfect opportunity to experience The Close in your own group. Be it friends, family or colleagues, you are sure to have a truly unique experience.

Join us on this 5-star, world-class heritage visitor attraction – a ‘must-see’ during your visit to Edinburgh.

Prices

From £19.50 per adult and from £12.95 per child

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The Real Mary King’s Close