10th Nov, 2023
Exciting news… we have a NEW online shop!
Gift Edinburgh inspired items to your family and friends this Christmas!
At The Real Mary King’s Close, we’ve been hard at work re-launching our online shop, just in time for Christmas. Our team has carefully curated our best and most-loved products straight from our Burgh Courtroom Gift Shop, including the Plague Ducktor.
The best part? They’re all available for delivery in the UK (and even the US for our Ducktor fans)!
From exclusive homeware and clothing to our house tartan range designed by Kinloch Anderson, we’re so pleased with this beautiful selection of gifts. Perfect for longer nights and cosier evenings in.
For those searching for Christmas gifts with a historic twist, this is the right place for you. Take a look to find out what we have in store…
Plague Doctor Collection
For history lovers. The Plague Doctor collection brings together bespoke clothing, homeware and the iconic “Plague Ducktor”.
Edinburgh’s last Plague Doctor was George Rae, a physician who was famed for his striking costume. He was appointed to treat those suffering from the plague in the summertime of 1645. Despite Dr Rae’s good intentions, his iconic silhouette has been a terrifying reminder of this dark period in Edinburgh’s history for centuries.
Given his bravery, we’ve decided to dedicate a whole collection to the city’s last Plague Doctor! Each and every item has been inspired by Dr Rae’s costume and his important work.
House Tartan Collection
For heritage lovers. Browse the House Tartan Collection for classic winter accessories. This collection also features artwork by Jan Laird.
At The Real Mary King’s Close, our Guest Services team’s uniforms consist of either a tie, waistcoat or kilt embroidered with The Real Mary King’s Close tartan, designed by Kinloch Anderson in 2013.
Rich red links the tartan to the location of Mary King’s Close on the Royal Mile, while shades of grey reflect “Auld Reekie” and Edinburgh’s architectural make-up. Bright white celebrates the city’s leading role in philosophy, literature and medicine during the Scottish Enlightenment.
Dr Arnott Collection
For curious souls. Discover an assortment of 17th century medical samples that might just astonish you with their unexpected burst of flavour.
Dr Arnott, known for his unorthodox methods, was not your typical apothecary. His approach to examining his patients’ health was as unique as it was unconventional. He would meticulously analyse their urine, scrutinising its colour, scent, and yes, even its taste!
Now, in our new Dr Arnott Collection, we pay homage to the curious spirit of this real former resident of Mary King’s Close.
Apothecary Collection
Similarly inspired by 17th century herbal remedies. Explore the aromas of Early Modern Edinburgh with hand-crafted soaps, jewellery and foraging manuals.
17th century physicians like Dr Rae and Dr Arnott harnessed all sorts of natural ingredients to undertake their work. Herbs, spices, salts and insects were used to treat common ailments.
Each product in this collection pays homage to the locals and apothecaries of Edinburgh who once trusted in herbal remedies for their power to heal anything from the plague to the common cold.
🌐 Our online shop is open 24/7. Whether you’re browsing from the comfort of your home or on the go, we’re just a click away.
Continuum Attractions is committed to achieving the highest standards of Health & Safety to all its visitors and employees. We are proud of the processes, systems and procedures we have in place across our business. Health & Safety is much a part of our company culture as our dedication to delivering unique experiences in memorable locations.
