In March learn about Women’s history with our Herstory Tour

Available Fridays to Sundays – Click here to book.

STEP DOWN INTO EDINBURGH'S HIDDEN
HISTORY

Journey Back In Time

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.

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Dr Arnott’s Sampling Sensation

Every Saturday,  uncover the secrets of 17th-century medicine with a hands-on workshop led by an expert from his time: Dr Arnott. Examine his patients using his favourite method… by analysing urine’s colour, smell and TASTE! ALL your senses will be required as you examine patients’ samples and create your own herbal cure.

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Free Audio Guides

If you require translation, we offer free audio guides via our mobile app in French, German, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin, Dutch, Portuguese, Polish and Hungarian. To find out more click here.

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Book a Private Tour

Enjoy your very own Private Tour of The Real Mary King’s Close for you and up to 19 additional guests. Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, your guests will go on a journey through time on these now hidden streets where they will uncover some of the city’s deepest secrets. 

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Read the Mary King’s Close Blog

The Real Mary King’s Close Blog is where you can gain a deeper understanding of Scotland’s turbulent history and beyond. Read fascinating tales, researched by our team, and find out more about our newest tours, collaborations, charity efforts and special events.

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Meet The Residents

Experience over 400 years of history, and discover the stories of your character guide. From myths and legends, to the deadly plague epidemic and a famous royal visitor – there’s a myriad of tales just waiting to be told on this one hour guided tour.

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Find Us On The Royal Mile

A ten minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, across from the magnificent St Giles Cathedral.

Use postcode: EH1 1PG

DIRECTIONS

Gift Shop

Browse a beautiful range of hand-crafted and locally sourced gifts, homeware and souvenirs. All items are handmade by local artisans or sourced from the best of Scotland’s rich produce and craftsmanship.

Coffee House

The unique setting of Edinburgh’s historic Burgh Courtroom is home to The Royal Exchange Coffee house. Enjoy locally roasted coffee by Brodies, S. Luca ice cream and a range of deliciously baked cakes and snacks.

Mary King's Blog

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"Thankyou Katie G! You are an excellent host and did a marvellous portrayal as Mary King’s daughter living on the close back in the 1600’s. A worthwhile visit to learn more about the city back in time." erika h, on TripAdvisor, October 2023
"I'd read great reviews of this tour and it didn't disappoint. Even my two teenagers enjoyed it. It's very informative and Matt, our tour guide made it fun. I would highly recommend this tour." Fran R, on TripAdvisor, October 2023
"There are many guided tours in Edinburgh but this one caught my husband's and my attention. They have a reception and shop. The online booking was smooth. It was raining heavily so having this type of tour inside was good. It was guided by a very pleasant Amber who was enthusiastic and humorous. It lasted approximately an hour and was very informative. Worth going to see." Margaret, on TripAdvisor, October 2023
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