The Real Mary King's Close

Overview

The Real Mary King's Close is an atmospheric underground attraction on the Royal Mile, a preserved 17th-century street that was literally sealed beneath the Royal Exchange (now the City Chambers) in 1753 and has remained hidden ever since.

Highlights

• The Underground Rooms: Original 17th-century rooms and passages preserved beneath street level, some still with traces of paint and plaster decoration.
• The Guided Tours: Costumed character guides bring the stories of the Close's former residents vividly to life — from plague victims to merchants.
• Annie's Room: A small, bare room said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl named Annie, left with hundreds of dolls and toys by moved visitors.

History

The close was originally a narrow, open-air alleyway off the Royal Mile, lined with multi-storey tenements. When the Royal Exchange was built over the top in 1753, the lower levels of the close were sealed and forgotten. They were rediscovered and opened to visitors in 2003.

Visitor Tips

• Guided Tours Only: Entry is by guided tour only — book in advance as tours fill up, especially in August.
• Temperature: The underground close is chilly year-round (around 11°C) — bring a layer.
• Duration: 1 hour.