Underground Unlocked at The Real Mary King’s Close
For two unforgettable nights, experience The Real Mary King’s Close as it once was, bustling, full of life and echoing with the voices of those who lived and worked beneath the Royal Mile.
About Underground Unlocked at The Real Mary King’s Close
|
4th December 2025 11th December 2025 |
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| 6pm to 10.30pm (entry slots every 10 minutes) | |
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The Real Mary Kings Close 2 Warriston's Close, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 1PG |
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| £40 (Adult) | |
| Visit the event website here | |
| Facebook information can be found here | |
| Follow marykingsclose on Instagram |
Step beneath the Royal Mile for a rare opportunity to explore one of Edinburgh’s most fascinating historic sites after hours. For two nights only, The Real Mary King’s Close invites you to wander freely through its preserved underground streets and spaces at your own pace.
This special after-hours experience brings the past to life through encounters with up to fifteen former residents of the Close. Each character is rooted in real history and ready to share their own story, offering an engaging insight into the people who once lived and worked in this hidden corner of the city.
Meet Mary King at her busy market stall, speak to Patrick Byrne as he demonstrates the craft of leather tanning, cross paths with Euphame MacCalzean as she recounts her ordeal during the witch trials, or find Deacon Brodie lingering in the darker corners of the Close. You might even step into the world of plague doctor Dr John Paulitious or hear the experiences of those facing illness and uncertainty in Craig House.
Event dates
Thursday 4 December 2025
Thursday 11 December 2025
Entry times
18.00 / 18.10 / 18.20 / 18.30 / 18.40 / 18.50
20.00 / 20.10 / 20.20 / 20.30
The Close will remain open until 22.30.
Why attend?
• Explore the site freely for up to two hours
• Experience a unique character-led event available only twice a year
• Engage with real stories from Edinburgh’s 17th century residents
• Ideal for history enthusiasts, culture lovers and those seeking an atmospheric night beneath the city
Additional Dates: 11 December 2025
Where possible we will update our listings to notify of cancelled, postponed and rescheduled events, however we STRONGLY ADVISE that you check with the venue/organiser in the first instance for updates.
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