The Real Mary King's Close: Edinburgh’s Hidden 17th-Century Underground Street
Explore Edinburgh’s hidden 17th-century underground street where history, mystery, and legends come alive beneath the Royal Mile.
Beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile lies The Real Mary King's Close, a preserved 17th-century street frozen in time. Once a bustling thoroughfare named after merchant Mary King, it was buried and sealed during the 18th century. Today, visitors explore its narrow alleys and rooms, learning about the lives, hardships, and legends of its former residents, including plague victims and notable historical figures, all brought vividly to life through immersive guided tours.
A brief summary to The Real Mary King's Close
- 2 Warriston's Cl, Edinburgh, EH1 1PG, GB
- +441312250672
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-9 pm
- Saturday 9 am-9 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance as visits run at regular intervals and can fill up, especially during peak seasons.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uneven surfaces and stairs within the underground Close.
- Photography is not allowed inside the Close to preserve the atmosphere and respect the site.
- Bring a small gift or toy for Annie, the legendary child spirit, as many visitors leave offerings to honor her memory.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 from Edinburgh city center to the Royal Mile area. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with tickets costing around £1.80-£2.50.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Tram to Princes Street stop, then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk downhill along Princes Street and the Royal Mile to reach The Real Mary King's Close. The tram fare is approximately £6 for a single adult ticket.
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Taxi
A taxi from Edinburgh Waverley Station to The Real Mary King's Close takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares ranging from £5 to £10. Taxis are readily available but may be limited during peak hours.
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Walking
If you are staying within Edinburgh’s Old Town or near the Royal Mile, walking is an excellent option. The terrain includes cobbled streets and some stairs, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Walking times vary but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point.
The Real Mary King's Close location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Low-Visibility Conditions
Discover more about The Real Mary King's Close
A Glimpse into Edinburgh’s Buried Past
The Real Mary King's Close is a unique historic site located beneath the Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town, offering a rare window into 17th-century urban life. Originally an open street named after Mary King, a prominent merchant and burgess who lived there in the early 1600s, the Close was once a lively hub of shops, homes, and markets. However, in the mid-18th century, much of the Close was buried and sealed off during the construction of the Royal Exchange building, preserving it beneath the city’s surface.Life and Death in a Confined World
The Close’s narrow, multi-level tenement buildings housed a densely packed population living in cramped, unsanitary conditions. It was a place where the realities of poverty, disease, and social stratification were starkly visible. The site is historically significant for its association with the devastating bubonic plague outbreak of 1645, which claimed many lives within its walls. Visitors walk through rooms and alleyways where real residents lived, worked, and died, including haunting stories of plague victims and tales of everyday survival in a harsh environment.Preservation and Storytelling
Today, The Real Mary King's Close operates as a carefully preserved underground attraction, combining archaeological accuracy with theatrical storytelling. Guided tours led by costumed interpreters bring the Close’s history to life, recounting personal stories of former inhabitants, from merchants and craftsmen to children and plague doctors. The experience is both educational and atmospheric, providing insight into Edinburgh’s social history while evoking the mystery and myths that have surrounded the Close for centuries.Mary King: A Woman Ahead of Her Time
Mary King, the Close’s namesake, was a notable figure in 17th-century Edinburgh. As a merchant burgess, she held voting rights and owned multiple properties on the Close, a rarity for women of her era. Her legacy is intertwined with the Close’s history, reflecting the economic and social dynamics of the time. The Close’s preservation allows visitors to connect with her story and the broader narrative of women’s roles in early modern Scotland.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Descending into The Real Mary King's Close, visitors encounter a labyrinth of dimly lit streets and chambers that evoke the atmosphere of a bygone era. The site’s ambiance is enhanced by authentic architecture, period details, and interactive exhibits. Visitors often hear about Annie, a young girl who tragically died during the plague, whose story adds a poignant human element. The Close is a compelling blend of history, mystery, and folklore, making it a must-see for those interested in Edinburgh’s darker past.Context within Edinburgh’s Historic Core
Situated beneath the Royal Mile, The Real Mary King's Close complements the rich tapestry of Edinburgh’s Old Town, connecting visitors to the city’s medieval roots and its evolution through centuries. It offers a contrasting underground perspective to the grandeur of nearby landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. The Close’s preservation highlights the layered history of the city, where past and present coexist in a remarkable urban landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mercat Cross
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South Bridge Vaults
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George IV Bridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Edinburgh Underground
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Edinburgh City Chambers
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Parliament Sqr
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St Giles' Cathedral
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The Lost Close
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Advocate's Cl
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Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
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Cockburn St
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Essential places to dine
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The Piper's Rest
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Makars Mash Bar
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Ondine Restaurant
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Howies Restaurant
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The Cellar Door
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The Outsider Restaurant
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Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
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Maison Bleue
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Monteiths
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The Witchery by the Castle
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Fringe Shop
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Eden
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Crest Of Edinburgh
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I Love Scotland
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
