Real Mary King’s Close

Overview

Hidden beneath the bustling streets of Edinburgh's Royal Mile lies The Real Mary King's Close, a unique subterranean world frozen in time. This historic close, or alleyway, offers a fascinating glimpse into 17th-century Edinburgh, preserved beneath later constructions. It's not just a single alley but a network of closes and former homes, providing an atmospheric and educational journey into the city's past. Today, it stands as a five-star visitor attraction, where engaging guides bring its complex history and captivating stories to life.

History & Cultural Background

Edinburgh's Old Town was characterized by its narrow, densely packed 'closes' that branched off the main thoroughfare, the Royal Mile. These closes were named after prominent residents or trades, and Mary King's Close is famously named after Mary King, a successful merchant burgess who owned property there in the 17th century. She even held voting rights, a remarkable achievement for a woman of her era.

Life in these closes was far from luxurious. Buildings were constructed upwards, creating some of the world's first 'skyscrapers' due to space constraints, leading to crowded and often unsanitary conditions. The waste disposal practice, known as 'gardyloo,' involved residents throwing refuse into the streets below. The area was particularly devastated by the Great Plague of 1645. While myths persist about plague victims being sealed off to die, the reality was more complex, involving desperate measures and the work of 'foul clengers' and plague doctors.

In the 18th century, as Edinburgh evolved, parts of the close were partially demolished and built over to construct the Royal Exchange (now the City Chambers), effectively burying the lower levels. The close was then closed to the public for many years, leading to the development of numerous urban legends and ghost stories about the hidden streets.

What Makes It Special

The Real Mary King's Close holds a distinct place in Edinburgh's heritage as the city's only preserved 17th-century street that exists primarily underground. This allows visitors to walk directly through authentic historical spaces, rather than reconstructed sets. What truly sets it apart are the immersive guided tours led by character guides, who embody past residents and recount their personal stories, struggles, and triumphs. This narrative approach transforms a historical site into a living, breathing experience, bridging the gap between centuries. The combination of tangible history, chilling urban legends, and compelling personal narratives makes it a deeply atmospheric and memorable destination.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One of the most poignant tales associated with the close is that of 'Annie,' a young girl believed to have died from the plague. Visitors often leave dolls, toys, and other mementos in her room, a tradition that began after a Japanese psychic reportedly encountered her spirit. These gifts are regularly collected and donated to children's charities.

The close's reputation for hauntings dates back to the 17th century. It's been suggested that biogas escaping from the nearby Nor' Loch, a stagnant and polluted marsh, could have created eerie lights and even caused hallucinations, contributing to these early ghost stories. During World War II, parts of the underground close even served as a bomb shelter, offering a different kind of refuge in a later tumultuous period.

Beyond the well-known Mary King's Close, the attraction actually encompasses sections of several interconnected closes, including Pearson's, Stewart's, and Allen's Closes, creating a labyrinthine experience.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting The Real Mary King's Close is an hour-long guided tour that takes you deep beneath the Royal Mile. Expect to be led by a costumed guide who skillfully weaves historical facts with local folklore, offering a captivating journey through the dark, narrow passages. The tours are designed to be informative and engaging, providing a visceral sense of what life was like in old Edinburgh. While photography and filming are generally not permitted during the tour (due to the building's status and for the immersive experience), there are opportunities to capture memories. It's important to note that the close has uneven surfaces, steep sections, and stairs, making it less suitable for those with significant mobility issues. However, for curious travelers, it offers an unparalleled and thought-provoking exploration of a hidden side of Edinburgh.