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STEP DOWN INTO EDINBURGH'S HIDDEN
HISTORY

Journey Back In Time

Imagine a warren of streets frozen in time, where centuries of stories are just waiting to be told. Discover authentic truths about Edinburgh's dark past, and find out what it was really like for the people who lived, worked, and died on the Close.

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BEST UK ATTRACTION

The Real Mary King’s Close has been named the Best Visitor Attraction in the UK by Tripadvisor in its 2024 Travellers’ Choice Awards!

Book your tour to visit  one of the top 1% of things to do worldwide.

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Dr Arnott’s Sampling Sensation

Every Saturday and Sunday,  uncover the secrets of 17th-century medicine with a hands-on workshop led by an expert from his time: Dr Arnott. Examine his patients using his favourite method… by analysing urine’s colour, smell and TASTE! ALL your senses will be required!

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Free Audio Guides

If you require translation, we offer free audio guides via our mobile app in French, German, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin, Dutch, Portuguese, Polish and Hungarian. To find out more click here.

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Book a Private Tour

Enjoy your very own Private Tour of The Real Mary King’s Close for you and up to 19 additional guests. Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, your guests will go on a journey through time on these now hidden streets where they will uncover some of the city’s deepest secrets. 

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Meet The Residents

Experience over 400 years of history, and discover the stories of your character guide. From myths and legends, to the deadly plague epidemic and a famous royal visitor – there’s a myriad of tales just waiting to be told on this one hour guided tour.

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Find Us On The Royal Mile

A ten minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, across from the magnificent St Giles Cathedral.

Use postcode: EH1 1PG

DIRECTIONS

Gift Shop

Browse a beautiful range of hand-crafted and locally sourced gifts, homeware and souvenirs. All items are handmade by local artisans or sourced from the best of Scotland’s rich produce and craftsmanship.

Mary Ogle’s Coffee Cart

Treat yourself to our delicious takeaway teas and coffees sourced from Brodies 1867, local coffee roasters in Edinburgh for over 150 years.

Mary King's Blog

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"This was a very enjoyable tour, very informative and an excellent guide, Katie G." traceyrobson1, on TripAdvisor, April 2024
"As part of the Science Festival my husband and I went on the history of medicine tour taken by Madison. It was excellent! Well informed, accurate history appropriate level of light vs serious." Tish C, on TripAdvisor, April 2024
"Absolutely incredible, worth every second! Our tour guide Matt was very good and explained everything in an easy and understandable manner. If you have the time, go!" Finlay B, on TripAdvisor, April 2024
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