Pride History Tour
- 20th - 27th Jun 2026
- Saturday only
- 1 hour
- £28.50 per adult & £23 per child
- No under 5 year olds
- Audio guides are not available for this tour
Exclusive tours to celebrate Pride Month
To celebrate Pride Month, The Real Mary King’s Close shares its research in a series of educational and thought-provoking ‘Pride History Tours’. These tours have been designed to reveal the hidden histories of LGBTQIA+ community life in Edinburgh from the mid-16th century until 1912.
The LGBTQIA+ community tend to be missing in history books, and it can be difficult to imagine the struggles they had to face throughout the centuries.
About the Tour
Join our costumed character guides for a one-hour underground tour exploring Edinburgh’s LGBTQIA+ history from the 16th century through to 1912.
Meet celebrated poet Robert Fergusson and writer Marie Maitland as they share stories of identity, community, and life in Edinburgh across the centuries. Along the way, discover remarkable individuals including Dr James Barry and Sophia Jex-Blake, whose lives challenged social conventions and helped shape Scotland’s history.
Set within the atmospheric surroundings of the Close itself, this special Pride experience offers a thoughtful and engaging look at Edinburgh’s hidden past.
What to Expect
- A fully guided one-hour underground walking tour beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile
- Immersive storytelling from costumed historical character guides
- LGBTQIA+ stories from Edinburgh’s history between the 1500s and early 1900s
- Access to preserved underground streets and spaces at The Real Mary King’s Close
- Stories inspired by real historical figures including Robert Fergusson, Marie Maitland, Dr James Barry, and Sophia Jex-Blake
- A unique Pride Month experience combining history, culture, and storytelling
- Atmospheric underground surroundings and authentic historic setting
- An engaging experience suitable for visitors interested in Edinburgh’s social history
Plan Your Visit
- Tour duration: Approximately 1 hour
- Location: The Real Mary King's Close, beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile
- Age guidance: Suitable for ages 5+
- Language: Tours are delivered in English
- Tickets: Advance booking is recommended
- Arrival: Please arrive in advance of your scheduled tour time
Frequently Asked Questions
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