The 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 attraction in the heart of the Old Town. This labyrinth of narrow streets, houses, and passageways offers an extraordinary glimpse into 17th-century Edinburgh life. Once a vibrant and densely populated community, much of Mary King's Close, along with several other closes, was gradually buried and built over as the city expanded upwards. Reopened to the public in 2003, it stands today as Edinburgh's only preserved 17th-century street, offering an unparalleled journey back in time.

Visitors embark on a guided tour, led by costumed characters portraying former residents, who share authentic stories of daily life, social stratification, and the challenges faced by the city's inhabitants centuries ago. It's a journey that uncovers the real history of the people who lived, worked, and died in these now-hidden closes, blending factual history with compelling storytelling.

History & Cultural Background

Edinburgh's Old Town was characterized by its 'closes' – narrow alleyways leading off the Royal Mile, often named after prominent residents or trades. Mary King's Close earned its name from Mary King, a successful merchant burgess who resided there in the 17th century. She was a notable figure, even holding voting rights on the city council, a rare privilege for women of her time.

Life in these closes was often harsh and crowded. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Edinburgh faced numerous challenges, most notably devastating outbreaks of the bubonic plague. The worst of these occurred in 1645, where the crowded living conditions within the closes allowed the disease to spread rapidly. While popular urban legends suggest plague victims were walled up and left to die, historical accounts clarify that the close was indeed sealed off due to the plague, but residents were not simply entombed alive. Over time, as the city grew, the Royal Exchange was constructed in 1753 directly over part of the closes, leading to their partial demolition and subsequent burial beneath new structures. This effectively froze a segment of 17th-century urban life in time, preserving it for centuries.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets The Real Mary King's Close apart is its remarkable state of preservation. It's a rare opportunity to step onto and explore an authentic 17th-century street, complete with its original stonework and structures, that has been undisturbed beneath the modern city for hundreds of years. Unlike many historical sites that are reconstructions, this is the actual physical environment where people lived, worked, and faced the realities of life in old Edinburgh.

The immersive nature of the guided tours, led by knowledgeable character guides, is another defining feature. These guides, embodying figures like Mary King's daughter or various merchants, bring the history to life, sharing personal stories and historical anecdotes that connect visitors directly to the past. This approach transforms a simple walk-through into a vivid historical experience, moving beyond mere facts to convey the human spirit of the era.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

• The Legend of Annie's Room: One of the most poignant tales from the close centers around the ghost of a young girl named Annie. According to legend, a Japanese psychic visited and made contact with Annie's spirit, who was crying for her lost doll. Today, visitors often leave toys, sweets, or money in Annie's Room, hoping to bring her peace. These offerings are regularly collected and donated to local children's charities.

• 'Gardyloo!': Before indoor plumbing was common, residents would empty their chamber pots out of windows onto the street below. To warn passersby, they would shout 'Gardyloo!', an anglicized version of the French 'Gardez l'eau' (watch out for the water). While the close is underground today, this historical detail paints a vivid picture of the unsanitary conditions.

• Haunted Reputation: The close has long held a reputation for being haunted, with tales of strange lights and paranormal activity dating back to the 17th century. Some theories suggest that biogas escaping from the nearby Nor Loch (a polluted marsh) might have caused hallucinations, fueling these early ghost stories.

• A City Built on a City: Edinburgh's growth often meant building directly on top of existing structures. The preservation of Mary King's Close is a prime example of this phenomenon, revealing the fascinating layers of history literally beneath the city's surface.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to The Real Mary King's Close is an atmospheric journey, typically lasting about an hour. It's a thought-provoking experience that delves into the realities of 17th-century urban life, presenting both the historical facts and the enduring myths. While it's not designed as a 'scare' attraction, the dimly lit, confined spaces and compelling stories can certainly evoke an eerie or somber mood.

Located conveniently on the Royal Mile, adjacent to the Edinburgh City Chambers, it's easily accessible for those exploring the Old Town. Due to its immense popularity, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred tour time. Visitors should wear comfortable footwear as there are stairs and uneven surfaces to navigate. It's also worth noting that for those with severe claustrophobia or a strong aversion to dark, enclosed spaces, the tour might be challenging.