About The Real Mary King's Close
The Real Mary King's Close is a popular tourist attraction in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is a series of underground closes and streets that were covered over and built upon by later generations, preserving a unique glimpse into Edinburgh's past. Visitors can explore the underground passages, learn about the history of the people who lived there, and gain insight into daily life during different periods of Edinburgh's history. The guided tours offer a fascinating and informative experience, shedding light on the living conditions, social customs, and stories of the past residents of The Real Mary King's Close. The attraction provides a captivating window into the darker side of Edinburgh's history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Interesting facts about The Real Mary King's Close
- The Real Mary King's Close is a popular tourist attraction located in Edinburgh, Scotland.
- It is a historic underground street that was once home to a bustling community in the 17th century.
- The Close is named after Mary King, a prominent merchant who owned several properties on the street.
- Visitors can take guided tours of The Real Mary King's Close to learn about its fascinating history and inhabitants.
- Many believe that The Close is haunted, with numerous ghost sightings reported over the years.
- The underground street was sealed off and forgotten for many years before being rediscovered and opened to the public in the 20th century.
- Exploring The Real Mary King's Close offers a unique glimpse into Edinburgh's past and the daily lives of its residents.
- The Close has been featured in various television shows and documentaries, highlighting its historical significance.
- Visitors can see original artifacts and homes preserved in their original state, providing a truly immersive experience.
- The Real Mary King's Close is a must-visit for history buffs and those interested in learning about Edinburgh's hidden secrets.
Frequently asked questions about The Real Mary King's Close
1. What is The Real Mary King's Close?
The Real Mary King's Close is an underground tourist attraction in Edinburgh, Scotland, featuring a series of underground streets and spaces dating back to the 17th century.
2. Is The Real Mary King's Close a real underground city?
No, The Real Mary King's Close is not a real underground city. It is a preserved section of historic Edinburgh that has been opened to the public for tours.
3. Who was Mary King and why is the close named after her?
Mary King was a prominent merchant who lived in Edinburgh in the 17th century. The close is named after her as she owned property in the area.
4. What can visitors expect to see and do at The Real Mary King's Close?
Visitors can explore the underground streets and houses, learn about the history of Edinburgh's Old Town, hear stories of life in the close, and interact with costumed guides.
5. Are there ghost stories associated with The Real Mary King's Close?
Yes, there are many ghost stories and legends associated with The Real Mary King's Close, making it a popular destination for those interested in paranormal activity.
6. How long is a typical tour of The Real Mary King's Close?
A typical tour of The Real Mary King's Close lasts about 1 hour, during which visitors are guided through the underground streets and buildings.
7. Is The Real Mary King's Close suitable for children?
Yes, The Real Mary King's Close is suitable for children, although some of the stories and themes discussed during the tour may be more suitable for older children.
8. Can visitors take photographs during the tour of The Real Mary King's Close?
Photography is not permitted during the tour of The Real Mary King's Close to preserve the historic atmosphere and protect the artifacts on display.
9. Is advance booking required for a visit to The Real Mary King's Close?
It is recommended to book tickets in advance for The Real Mary King's Close, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability for the tour time of your choice.
10. Is The Real Mary King's Close wheelchair accessible?
The Real Mary King's Close is not wheelchair accessible due to its underground location and historic nature, which includes uneven surfaces and narrow passages.
What people love about The Real Mary King's Close
During my recent trip to Edinburgh, I had the opportunity to explore The Real Mary King's Close and was pleasantly surprised by the experience. The guided tour took me through a hidden network of underground streets and spaces that were filled with intriguing stories and history. The interactive nature of the tour made the visit even more engaging and allowed me to truly immerse myself in the fascinating past of this mysterious place. Overall, I found The Real Mary King's Close to be a captivating and unique attraction that offered a glimpse into Edinburgh's hidden secrets.
How to get to The Real Mary King's Close
To get to The Real Mary King's Close in Edinburgh, Scotland, you have a few options:
1. **By Foot**: If you are already in the city center of Edinburgh, you can easily walk to The Real Mary King's Close. The attraction is located on the historic Royal Mile, so it is easily accessible by foot.
2. **By Bus**: There are several bus routes that stop near The Real Mary King's Close. You can take any bus that goes to the city center and then walk to the attraction from there. The closest bus stops are located on George IV Bridge and South Bridge.
3. **By Tram**: If you are coming from the west end of Edinburgh, you can take the tram to Princes Street and then walk to The Real Mary King's Close from there. The tram is a convenient and efficient way to get around the city.
4. **By Car**: If you are driving to The Real Mary King's Close, there are several parking options available nearby. However, please be aware that parking in the city center can be limited and expensive, so it may be easier to use public transportation instead.
Overall, The Real Mary King's Close is located in the heart of Edinburgh and is easily accessible by foot, bus, tram, or car. Enjoy your visit to this unique historical attraction!
When to visit
The best time to visit The Real Mary King's Close in Edinburgh, Scotland is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these times, the weather is milder, the tourist crowds are smaller, and you can enjoy a more leisurely and immersive experience exploring the historic underground streets and homes. Additionally, visiting during these months may also offer better availability and prices for accommodation in Edinburgh. However, keep in mind that The Real Mary King's Close is an attraction that can be visited year-round, so any time you choose to visit can offer a unique and fascinating experience.
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