THE REAL MARY KINGS CLOSE

Underneath 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 Mary King’s Close…

Descend beneath the Old Town on a one-hour guided tour to uncover over 400 years of history. With the help of your guide, in character as a resident of the close, delve into the past to discover Edinburgh’s only preserved 17th century street. Avoid the neighbours’ cries of, “Gardyloo!”, get under the skin of the plague, and find out what led to the partial destruction of – what was once – the busiest neighbourhood and market street in Edinburgh.

This year, the attraction celebrates its 20th anniversary of uncovering The Close’s hidden history. In summer, opening hours are extended and visitors can choose from a variety of special experience tours that will be announced throughout the season. Visit in June to celebrate Pride Month on a social history Pride Tour running Fridays and Saturdays. This 5-star, world-class heritage visitor attraction, is a ‘must-see’ during your visit to Edinburgh.