The Real Mary King’s Close Blog

Step down Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and you’ll find far more than just history beneath your feet. You’ll discover a treasure trove of independent gift shops, each bursting with charm, character, and curious finds. From sweet treats to Scottish gemstones, this historic street is home to some of the city’s most creative makers and merchants. At …

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The Plague. The Black Death. The Foul Pestilence. Whatever name you use, it remains one of the deadliest diseases in history. In the 17th century, Edinburgh was devastated by its 11th recorded outbreak, leaving thousands dead in just two years. The city’s attempts to control the disease ranged from plague doctors in beaked masks to …

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We are delighted to announce a record-breaking year for 2024 after welcoming over 282,000 guests underground to explore the hidden streets of Edinburgh. We welcomed 282,525 visitors from 159 countries, smashing the previous record set in 2023 by nearly 25,000, July was our busiest month in history, welcoming 32,517 guests. In 2024, we were also …

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With a crisp nip in the air, warm twinkly lights and an echo of festive seasons past, Edinburgh at Christmas is a true bucket list destination.

Our immersive glimpse into 17th-century Edinburgh has attracted more than 1,800 reviews in 2024, more than Disneyland Paris according to latest data from Tripadvisor.