The Real Mary King’s Close Blog

Did you know that Edinburgh’s ale brewing history dates back to the 12th century? Or that it was historically women who practised the trade? Read on to find out why brewing ale was essential to life in Edinburgh, and what happened for the industry to change hands from female entrepreneurs to men… To celebrate the …

Continue reading “Edinburgh’s Brewing History Was Made by Women”

All women in Early Modern Scotland were bound by strict legal restrictions over their property as well as their bodies. Married women especially. They were unable to instigate legal proceedings or represent themselves in court. Unless, of course, their husbands first gave them permission. What’s more, landed property only ever passed down to the daughters …

Continue reading “Women and Property Rights in Early Modern Edinburgh”

Edinburgh is making sure that January starts the year off with a bang! Undeniably, there are plenty of events and occasions to start the year right. Make sure to check out these amazing “Things to do” this month. Burns & Beyond Burns & Beyond is a celebration of the great Poet Robert Burns through traditional …

Continue reading “Six great things to Do in Edinburgh this January”

We are delighted to announce that we are adding another site to the Continuum Attractions group. It just so happens to be one of Scotland’s most famous visitor attractions! The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition is having £1.5 million invested into its refurbishment, and will join the Continuum Attractions family when it reopens in Spring …

Continue reading “Loch Ness Centre becomes part of the Continuum Attractions family with £1.5 million investment”

Edinburgh has famously been a focal point of medical innovation and experimentation. Edinburgh medical school is the oldest in the English-speaking world and was at the heart of the Scottish Enlightenment. While many amazing discoveries and advancements came from Edinburgh, like everywhere, some ideas were slightly… strange! Many of the terrifying and “unusual” treatments were …

Continue reading “Dr Arnott and 17th-century medicine”