Explore the hidden streets beneath the Royal Mile and come face to face with former residents, in a self-guided immersive experience this Thursday, May 25.

For the first time ever The Real Mary King’s Close is hosting an exclusive ‘Underground Unlocked’ event which will see the spooky old streets under the Royal Mile bustling with life again this Thursday, May 25th. 

Guests at ‘Underground Unlocked’ will have the opportunity to wander freely around the capital’s old streets, step back in time and relish in secrets and stories never before told. The two-hour self-guided experience will allow guests to take a leisurely stroll through preserved shops and homes while bumping into thirteen fascinating former residents along the way.  

Expect to meet the mysterious plague doctor, John Paulitious, around one corner, or the wealthy ‘merchant prince’, Stephen Boyd, around another. Converse with the renowned poet, Robert Fergusson, or hear stories from Janet Chesney, the mother of the last resident to live on the close. Hear their captivating real stories and journey through the previously concealed streets and rooms on your own terms. 

The event has been dreamed up to celebrate twenty years of The Real Mary Kings Close, a major tourist attraction in the capital which has welcomed over 2.75 million guests since opening in 2003.

Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close said:-

“Back in 2003, we opened our doors under Continuum Attractions to reveal the real stories of Mary King’s Close and its former residents. Since then, it’s been such a huge part of Edinburgh’s historical tourism sector for the past 20 years.”

“We wanted to celebrate by giving our customers the chance to explore it like they’ve never seen it before, and immerse themselves in the rich history Edinburgh has to offer.” 

“At The Real Mary King’s Close, we are passionate about storytelling and creating unforgettable experiences that transport our visitors back in time. We can’t wait to welcome them to ‘Underground Unlocked’ and give them our most immersive experience yet.”  

The special ‘Underground Unlocked’ experience is running on Thursday 25th May from 18.30 until 21.00.

Tickets are £29 per person or £25 for EH postcode residents. Use EHUNLOCK at the checkout. Discount is only available online. Spaces are extremely limited, so pre-booking is highly recommended.  

For more information and bookings please visit: https://bookings.realmarykingsclose.com/book/underground-unlocked/207

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