The Real Mary King’s Close Blog

The Close During the World Wars

20th Jul 2021

With the constant threat of air raids and fear of gas attacks, the First and Second World Wars impacted the daily life of Edinburgh’s residents and Edinburgh’s Old Town. The site around what is The Real Mary King’s Close today played a small but important role during the Second World War as the city prepared for an attack.

• Food
• Events

APRIL FOOLS: Cows Back on The Close

1st Apr 2021

For the grand reopening of The Real Mary King’s Close in May 2021, we have been working on a very special addition to our historic site.

Who Was Mary King?

2nd Feb 2021

As is the case with so many women in history, there is little known about our namesake, Mary King. What we do know is a tantalising glimpse at a fiercely independent woman, years before her time.

• Retail

Christmas: A Festive Gift Guide

27th Nov 2020

With a season of festivities on the horizon, we’re sure Christmas shopping is on your mind… So, to help you get ahead with gifts that your friends and family are sure to love, we’ve picked out some of our favourite items from our online shop for this festive gift guide.

• Paranormal

Scotland’s Witch Prickers

14th Oct 2020

Ghosts, ghouls and monsters might be the first things that come to mind when you think of Halloween. While the paranormal might be spooky, there is nothing scarier than the dark truth of Edinburgh’s past. If you dare, read on for the true story of the witch prickers…