The Real Mary King's Close

Edinburgh

Visitor Attractions

It may be hard to believe, but in Edinburgh’s Old Town there are alleyways hidden underneath the streets that we use today. The Real Mary King’s Close tour takes you underground to relive the history of these old alleys. They remained untouched for 400 years after the plague forced the city council to demolish the buildings and build a new Edinburgh, free from disease. The Real Mary King’s Close was discovered under the Royal Mile when a water pipe broke and needed replacing. That’s when, after digging up the pipe, 400 years’ worth of legends about ghost and secret passages came to light and was put to shame by actual facts. The attraction was opened to visitors in April 2003 and has been attracting increasing numbers of visitors ever since.

Because Mary King’s Close is situated under the Royal Mile, in narrow Warriston’s Close, it can be difficult to spot. Not many signs are allowed on the High Street so it can be a challenge. The best way to find it is to keep to the left hand side of the street when walking down from Edinburgh Castle and when you see St Giles Cathedral on the other side of the street (to your right), that’s a sign that you are almost there. Just keep reading the signs by the closes to your left.

Directions

Book Nearby Accommodation

Get Directions

Are you a business owner in Edinburgh?

My Guide Edinburgh, an informative and user-friendly online guide, was created for all those interested in the Edinburgh region.

Used daily by travellers, tourists, residents and locals, powered by Local Experts, our site reaches the people who are your potential customers.

  • WhatsApp Enquiries
  • Integrate your chosen Booking platform
  • Gallery with Videos & Virtual Tours
  • Downloadable PDFs (Menus , Pricing lists..)
  • Event Promotion Included
  • Website Link
  • Social Media links
Find Out More

My Lists

Create New Guide

OR

Mini Guides
Arrow

Login to create your guides for Edinburgh.

Add to My Guide

Create New Guide

Cancel

Cancel

Book Experiences in Edinburgh

We Are Part of the My Guide Network!

My Guide Edinburgh is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides.

We are now in 180+ Destinations and Growing. If you are interested in becoming a local travel partner and would like to find out more then click for more info about our Website Business Opportunity.

Nearby Destinations

Events in Edinburgh

Please select a Date first.

Search for a company in Edinburgh
myguide pixel