To mark 20 years of championing care in communities across the UK, leading homecare provider Caremark is inviting Scotland residents to enter its unique photography competition titled ‘What is care?’ for a chance to win a £1,000 luxury getaway.
Whether it’s a simple gesture like someone holding another’s hand, a care worker in action, a comforting hug between family or friends, or the bond between a pet and its owner, Scotland residents are encouraged to enter the competition online and submit photographs which capture their personal vision of what care means to them – any creative interpretation of care will be considered.
After a panel of judges at Caremark has shortlisted 12 photographs – one from each UK region – the finalists will go head-to-head in a nationwide social media vote, where the public will choose their favourite and determine who wins the £1,000 luxury getaway.
Emma Scholes, Caremark’s Director of Marketing, shares the inspiration behind the competition: “At Caremark, we champion community and wellbeing, so there is no better way to celebrate our 20th anniversary than by asking the public to show us what care means to them.
“For me, care is about connection, and this fuels my passion for the work we do. Our care teams are out there every day providing so much more than practical support – they offer companionship, promote emotional wellbeing, and help families manage the challenges of life when extra care and support is needed.
“By asking the people of Scotland to reflect on what care looks like to them, we hope to highlight its profound importance in society – because care means something unique to everyone. I can’t wait to see the variety of visual interpretations; I imagine it’s going to be extremely tough to shortlist them!”
12 finalist entries will be chosen, one from UK region:
Scotland
Wales
Northern Ireland
North East
North West
Yorkshire & The Humber
East Midlands
West Midlands
East of England
London & Greater London
South East
South West
The competition is open to UK residents aged 18 and over.
East Craigspractice benefits from £100,000 investment
ONE of the capital’s biggest dental practices has unveiled a significant refurbishment following an extensive investment programme to enhance services for its 11,000 registered patients.
Since acquiring East Craigs Dental Clinic just over two years ago, Scottish Dental Care has committed £100,000 towards a series of infrastructure and technology improvements.
Crucially, the practice has remained fully operational throughout the phased works, ensuring patients continued to receive care with minimal disruption.
Now, with the latest phase of investment completed, patients and staff alike are benefitting from a transformed clinic.
Co-Founder and Director of Dentistry at Scottish Dental Care Philip Friel, said: “We are committed to continually investing in our clinics to ensure we provide the highest standard of dental care for our patients.
“This latest investment has enhanced both our facilities and treatment options. Alongside modernised patient areas and a new clinical room, we have introduced state-of-the-art digital scanning technology and upgraded essential equipment, ensuring our team can deliver the very best in dental care.
“Expanding our capacity by adding a new surgery and welcoming a sixth dentist strengthens our ability to provide accessible, high-quality treatment.
“By embracing the latest innovations and growing our team, we are further improving the patient experience at every stage of their journey.”
As part of the improvements, a brand-new fifth surgery room has been introduced, increasing capacity and enabling greater access to high-quality dental care. This follows the build out of a new sanitisation suite and a refreshed waiting area.
Additionally, state-of-the-art dental chairs have replaced ageing models, offering an upgraded experience for both clinicians and patients.
A move to digital radiography enhances patient care and the latest digital intraoral scanning technology has also been implemented, significantly reducing the need for traditional dental impressions in most restorative treatments.
Alongside these facility improvements, the East Craigs team has also welcomed a new dentist.
Dr Amna Sajad BDS, a University of Aberdeen graduate, brings valuable experience in treating patients of all ages, including those with anxiety, disabilities, and learning needs. She has a particular interest in paediatrics and restorative dentistry, further strengthening the clinic’s expertise.
East Craigs Dental Clinic has been a vital part of the north-west Edinburgh community for more than 40 years. Originally opened in 1983 as a purpose-built clinic, it offers a comprehensive range of high-quality NHS treatment as well as an array of cosmetic procedures.
Dr. Roddy Little, Lead Clinician at East Craigs Dental Clinic said: “Our commitment to delivering excellent care has always been our priority. Ongoing investment allows us to enhance our facilities, upgrade essential equipment, and introduce cutting-edge digital scanning technology.
“With these improvements, we are proud to offer an even better experience to our patients, ensuring they receive the highest standard of care.”
Glasgow-headquartered Scottish Dental Care has established itself as a major player in Scotland’s dental sector, growing to 21 locations based throughout the country, from Inverness to Dumfries.
Founded by brothers Philip and Christopher Friel, Scottish Dental Care consists of more than 125 clinicians and 200 dental nurses and practice staff serving 250,000 patients.
Philip continues to practice, ensuring that patient care and clinician wellbeing remain a top priority across all clinics. He is regarded as one of the country’s leading dentists.
Were you involved in the Create Community Wealth project?
If you were part of the Create Community Wealth project in any way, we kindly invite you to join us at the Cameo Cinema on Saturday 29 March at 12.15pm. The documentary film tells the story of this ambitious and rewarding project through the experiences of participants and staff alike.
Friends and family are welcome. We’d love for you to let us know if you’re planning to attend but you’re welcome to turn up on the day. However, if you’re bringing a large group, please let us know by emailing projects@whalearts.co.uk.
Entry at 12.15pm. The film starts at 12.30pm sharp. Social gathering in the Cameo Bar afterwards depending on availability.
If you have any additional needs or disabilities, please let us know so we can properly prepare the venue.
Carers in full and part-time education could be entitled to over £4,900 a year in financial support from Social Security Scotland.
It is estimated that there are over 30,000 students at college or university in Scotland providing unpaid care for a family member, friend or neighbour. Research from Carers Trust Scotland shows student carers are four times more likely to drop out of their studies with a key reason being financial struggles.
Together, Carer Support Payment and Carer’s Allowance Supplement could provide over £4,900 a year to unpaid carers.
Carer Support Payment replaces Carer’s Allowance in Scotland, which was delivered by the UK’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Unlike its predecessor, Carer Support Payment is available to many student carers in full-time education.
Carer’s Allowance Supplement, only available in Scotland, is paid twice a year to people receiving Carer Support Payment or Carer’s Allowance.
Students aged 16, 17 or 18 may be able to get Young Carer Grant if they aren’t eligible for Carer Support Payment.
Speaking to student carers and staff at Edinburgh College yesterday (Wednesday 19 March), Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville, said: “We worked with carers and support organisations in designing Carer Support Payment to ensure it worked better for the people who receive it. Extending Carer Support Payment to more carers in education is an example of doing just that.
“I recognise the challenges many students face juggling their studies with caring responsibilities and hope the increased support available provides additional financial security and helps them to complete their course.”
Anna Vogt, Assistant Principal Student Experience at Edinburgh College said: “We are committed to supporting our student carers to be able to come to Edinburgh College and achieve their educational ambitions.
“We do this by individualising support for carers, engaging with carer organisations in our region and by designing systems that acknowledge our students have responsibilities and communities outside of college.
“Colleges change lives and we are pleased that this new benefit will support more carers to think about becoming a student at any institution across Scotland.”
Josh, a student at Edinburgh College, added: “The support from Edinburgh College has made a real difference to me and is very different from the support I received at school. It has been particularly helpful to be linked up with my local carer’s association – I didn’t know about them. Now I know about this new benefit, I’m going to explore a bit more about it.”
The £4,900 a year calculation is based on a carer receiving a full year entitlement for Carer Support Payment (52 weeks) and Carer’s Allowance Supplement (a payment in June and then in December) at the 2025-26 rates coming into effect from 1 April 2025.
The NSPCC is releasing this data as part of its Listen up, Speak up campaign, aiming to inspire a million people to take action to keep children safe.
The SSC (A Club for the Youth in Scotland) is one of many businesses, community groups and organisations across Scotland who have taken part in Listen up, Speak up workshops.
New findings reveal that 96% of adults surveyed in Scotland believe that emotional abuse in childhood can have a lasting psychological effect well into adulthood.
A YouGov survey of 4,242 UK adults, commissioned by the NSPCC – including 352 in Scotland – also gave participants a series of behaviours and asked them to correctly identify what was deemed as emotional abuse.
In Scotland, on average one in six participants (17%), failed to correctly identify examples of emotional abuse. The scenarios where adults failed to identify emotional abuse correctly included:
Being overly controlling of a child’s life (25%).
Never showing any emotions in interactions with a child (21%).
Pushing a child too hard or not recognising their limitations (26%).
The research also found that more than two thirds of adults (69%) of adults in Scotland surveyed had not done any training or reading to help them recognise the signs of emotional abuse.
Emotional abuse – which is any type of abuse that involves the continual emotional mistreatment of a child – can often be difficult to recognise, sometimes showing limited external signs.
Research suggests that 1 in 15 children in the UK will experience emotional abuse, highlighting just how prevalent the issue is, and it is a topic that young people contact Childline about on a regular basis.
Last year the NSPCC service delivered almost 3,000 counselling sessions to children and young people where emotional abuse was the main concern, a 5% increase compared to 2022/23.
One girl, aged 17, told Childline: “Mum’s never hit me, but it still feels abusive. She always tells me she hates me, that I’m selfish, that I’m stupid.
“When she’s angry she breaks my stuff and blames it on me. She controls my friendships too; she says no one would want to be my friend anyway. I feel so defeated and drained living with this every day.”
This new data highlights the importance of free resources, like the NSPCC’s Listen up, Speak up workshops and online tips and advice. The SSC (A Club for the Youth in Scotland) welcomed safeguarding experts to lead these free, educational workshops.
The SSC is a volunteer-run organisation that organizes summer camps and other events for children and young people in Scotland.
Listen up, Speak up provides simple tips and advice on signs a child might be at risk and steps that can be taken to help. The tips can be found online, and anyone can take part in a workshop run for free by local NSPCC teams, either in person or online.
Through a series of everyday scenarios, participants learn some of the signs that a child might be at risk, showing that not all situations are black and white, how to approach difficult conversations, and who to contact if they are concerned about a child or their family.
The NSPCC local campaigns team delivered 557 LUSU workshops in Scotland.
As part of their partnership with the NSPCC, The SSC, has committed to ensuring their volunteers and members across the region are familiar with Listen up, Speak up.
Cat Robertson, SSC chairwoman, said: “The Listen up, Speak up training was a great experience for the volunteer youth workers of the SSC.
“We believe that all young people should have access to safe, fun and positive experiences – not only at our summer camps and events but in every aspect of their lives.
“The workshop was accessible, interactive and highly relevant to the role of our team.”
NSPCC’s CEO, Chris Sherwood, said: “It is concerning that on average one in six adults in Scotland are unable to correctly identify emotional abuse. We know that emotional abuse can have a devastating and long-lasting impact on children’s wellbeing and development, affecting their mental health, and relationships well into adulthood.
“The NSPCC is here to support any child who has experienced any kind of abuse. We are also fully committed to creating a nation of adults who are passionate about preventing harm from happening to a child. With our Childline service delivering almost 3,000 counselling sessions about emotional abuse last year alone, we understand the scale and seriousness of this issue across the UK.
“That’s why Listen up, Speak up is so vital. In just 10 minutes, we can help adults learn to recognise both the obvious and subtle signs a child might be at risk and take action to support them. Every adult has the power to make a difference.”
Friends of the Earth: Project Willow “does nothing” for the hundreds of people at Grangemouth set to lose their jobs in the coming months
Plans to secure a long-term industrial future for Grangemouth have been stepped up as a feasibility study sets out nine options for its future.
The plan – which is backed by £25 million from the Scottish Government and £200 million from the UK Government – will support jobs, unlock investment and drive growth.
The £1.5 million feasibility study – published today by EY – follows the recent decision by Petroineos to decommission the oil refinery.
It has identified credible long-term industrial options for the Grangemouth site and explored how Grangemouth can build on its skilled workforce, local expertise and long heritage as a fuel leader in Scotland to forge a new path in low carbon energy production.
The report provides nine proposals likely to attract private investment, including plastics recycling, hydrogen production and other projects that could create up to 800 jobs by 2040.
It follows First Minister John Swinney’s announcement of £25 million to establish a Grangemouth Just Transition Fund, which will support businesses and stakeholders to bring forward investible propositions for the site over the next 12 months, and the Prime Minister’s announcement last month of £200 million to help unlock Grangemouth’s full potential.
First Minister John Swinney said: “We will leave no stone unturned in order to secure the future of the Grangemouth refinery site, and the Scottish Government has already committed or invested a total of £87 million to help do so.
“Grangemouth is home to over a century of industrial expertise and employs thousands of highly skilled workers, placing the site at a massive competitive advantage and creating a unique opportunity for investors.
“Everyone working at Grangemouth’s refinery – and in the wider industrial cluster – is a valued employee with skills that are key to Scotland’s economic and net zero future.
“This report sets out a wide range of viable alternatives for the refinery site, demonstrating that a long term, new industrial future at Grangemouth is achievable.
“We will continue to work closely with the UK Government to realise these opportunities and Scottish Enterprise stands ready to support inward investors looking to progress any of these technologies.”
UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: “We committed to leaving no stone unturned in supporting an industrial future for Grangemouth delivering jobs and economic growth.
“This report and the £200 million investment by the UK Government demonstrates that commitment.
“We will build on Grangemouth’s expertise and industrial heritage to attract investors, secure a long-term clean energy future, and deliver on our Plan for Change.”
To kickstart the process, Energy Minister Michael Shanks and Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin co-chaired a meeting yesterday (Wednesday 19 March) of the Grangemouth Future Industry Board with local industry leaders, Falkirk Council, trade bodies and unions.
Scottish Enterprise and the UK Government’s Office for Investment will work with Petroineos to market the proposals set out in Project Willow and seek investor interest.
Alongside launching a search for investors, both governments have also committed to review the Project Willow policy recommendations and understand how government funding can be deployed to mature proposals from the private sector.
The nine projects include:
Waste: hydrothermal upgrading (breaking down hard to recycle plastics), chemical plastics recycling, ABE biorefining (breaking down waste material)
Bio-feedstock: breaking down Scottish timber into bioethanol, anaerobic digestion of bioresources and digestate pyrolysis, HEFA (conversion of Scottish cover crops into sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel using low carbon hydrogen).
Offshore wind conduit: Replacing natural gas with hydrogen, using low carbon hydrogen to produce methanol and convert it to SAF, producing low carbon ammonia from hydrogen for shipping and chemicals.
Just transition campaigners say Project Willow “does nothing” for the hundreds of people at Grangemouth set to lose their jobs in the coming months, however.
The Project Willow feasibility study, published yesterday:
Sets out 9 possible options for the future of Grangemouth, all of which would require private investment
States up to 800 jobs could be created by 2040
Does not include any support for the hundreds of people set to lose their jobs this year
PetroIneos announced the oil refinery will close by summer 2025. The company instead will import refined oil, effectively offshoring the resultant climate pollution.
Friends of the Earth Scotland just transition campaigner Rosie Hampton commented: “It would be disingenuous to suggest the Project Willow report is a plan for workers and the community at Grangemouth – it’s simply a set of suggestions that would ultimately rely on private investment if they were to happen.
“They haven’t been put together with any involvement from trade unions or workers at the refinery, and it does nothing for the hundreds of people set to lose their jobs when the refinery closes this summer.
“As one of Scotland’s most polluting sites, we’ve known for years that Grangemouth needed a transition plan. There was no excuse for politicians not having the right investment, planning and policy in place, because their inaction has paved the way for the swingeing job cuts by Petroineos.
“It’s welcome that options beyond fossil fuels are finally being considered but the scope of the report has left room for dodgy greenwashing projects which are more about maximising profits for companies than protecting the environment.
“It’s not surprising that a report commissioned by Petroineos using public money doesn’t address that company’s failures to plan for a sustainable future and look after its workforce. The core assumption that private money has to be enticed into investing with government subsidy, for which the public get the risk but not the returns, is a real cause for concern.
“The paper speculates it might be possible to create up to 800 jobs by 2040 but that is 15 years too late for the 400 people at the refinery, and many more across the supply chain, facing the loss of their livelihoods in the next few months.
“The two governments must now set out much tighter criteria for any investments and say how it will build on this to create an actual just transition plan that will protect people and the planet.”
TOUR DE FRANCE TO RETURN TO THE UK IN 2027 WITH HISTORIC DUAL GRAND DÉPARTS
In a historic milestone, the world’s biggest bike races, the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, will both take place in the UK in 2027, marking the first time both the men’s and women’s Grand Départs will take place in the same country (outside France).
England, Scotland, and Wales are all set to host stages of this famous event in 2027, making it the largest free sporting spectacle in British history with millions expected to line the streets for the return of the Tour de France, and to witness the first ever staging of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in the UK.
The men’s Tour de France will begin in Edinburgh.
Further route details for both the men’s and women’s 2027 Grand Départs will be announced in the Autumn, with the focus on maximising the opportunity to showcase Britain’s diverse landscapes alongside the nation’s enthusiasm for cycling and inspiring as many people as possible through the event.
As a key part of this, a landmark social impact programme will be delivered as part of the build-up to the 2027 Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift Grand Départs. The ambitious programme will deliver long-lasting benefits for thousands of people across the country by tackling inactivity, improving mental wellbeing, boosting economic growth and supporting communities to thrive.
The return of Tour de France to the UK is the result of an ambitious and collaborative effort from key partners, including British Cycling, UK Sport, UK Government, Scottish and Welsh Governments, and event stakeholders in a strategic win that will drive lasting benefits for the sport and everyone who rides a bike.
The last time the men’s Tour de France graced British shores was in 2014 when crowds of people cheered from the roadsides of Yorkshire and London for three unforgettable stages, following the race’s previous visit to the UK in 2007.
With its return in 2027, the event offers an unparalleled opportunity to inspire a new generation of cycling fans and riders while boosting cycle tourism right across the country.
HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh led a spectacular celebration at Edinburgh Castle today, marking the official handover as the UK prepares to host the Grand Départ of both the 2027 Tour de France and Tour de France Femme. In a striking moment, the historic landmark was lit in yellow, with pyrotechnics and smoke displays creating a dramatic backdrop to this momentous announcement.
Tour de France General Director Christian Prudhomme, Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney, UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, British Cycling CEO Jon Dutton, and Tour de France legend Sir Mark Cavendish were present, alongside, young cyclists, Scottish pipers, and dignitaries from across England, Scotland, and Wales, highlighting the excitement and legacy these world-class races will bring.
Christian Prudhomme, General Director, Tour de France, said:“The Tour de France and the UK share a rich history, and I am delighted to bring the Grand Départ to the country in 2027.
“Britain has always welcomed the Tour with enthusiasm and pride, and this collaboration across England, Scotland, and Wales promises to make the event even more special.”
First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, said:“It is a tremendous honour to welcome the Tour de France to Scotland. We know it is one of the most iconic and inspiring contests in sport, and that Scotland provides the perfect stage for major events.
“Hosting the Tour promises to be a unique opportunity to showcase our country to its many fans around the world as part of a timeline of incredible sporting events in Scotland from 2026 to 2028.”
First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, said:“The Welsh stage of the 2027 UK Grand Depart promises to be a memorable experience for competitors and fans alike. Boasting stunning landscapes, warm and welcoming communities and an ever-growing fanbase of cycling enthusiasts, Wales will provide the ultimate challenge and a unique Welsh ‘Croeso’ for the world’s biggest cycle race.
“We will build on our successful track record of hosting road cycling events, ensuring the Tour De France has a positive and lasting impact on cycling in Wales, by showcasing Wales as a top international destination for cyclists and encouraging more people in Wales to get into cycling.”
Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, said:“The opportunity to host the Grand Departs of both the Men’s and Women’s Tour de France will cement Britain’s reputation as a destination for major international sporting events. This will stimulate growth, attract new visitors and leave a lasting legacy for athletes and fans alike.
“Staging the Tour de France Femmes in Britain for the first time will also be an historic occasion and inspire the next generation of female cyclists while supporting our mission of breaking down barriers for women and girls to get more involved in sport.”
Simon Morton, Director of Events at UK Sport said:“We set out to host the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes because we believe that live sport is a fundamental part of our country’s social fabric, and that we should be hosting events that are accessible to people and communities across the country.
“This will be the biggest free spectator event ever hosted in the UK, offering the public front-row access to world class sport across villages, towns and cities. We can’t wait to share more details later in the year about this truly remarkable route.”
Jon Dutton OBE, CEO of British Cycling, said:“The return of the Tour de France Grand Départ to Britain is an exciting moment for cycling in the UK.
“Hosting both the men’s and women’s races together will be a first, and we believe it has the potential to inspire more people to discover the joy and benefits of cycling. This is not just about the race – it’s about creating a national moment that encourages healthier lifestyles, supports cycle tourism, and brings communities together.”
Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge and Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker welcome the announcement.
Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the Tour de France Grand Départ to Edinburgh. With our winding cobbled streets and iconic backdrop, the city provides a dramatic, challenging, and undeniably picturesque start to this legendary race. It’s sure to be a sight to remember.
“This will be an exhilarating event for the city and a major highlight of 2027. Edinburgh’s residents are renowned for offering a warm and unforgettable welcome to millions of visitors each year, and we look forward to extending that same hospitality to the Tour de France.”
Culture and Communities Convener, Val Walker, said: “As the world’s largest annual sporting event, the Tour de France will bring elite cyclists from across the globe to Edinburgh, showcasing exactly why our city is celebrated worldwide as a premier events destination.
“Edinburgh is no stranger to cycling events, and has proudly hosted stages of the Tour of Britian and the UCI Championships in 2023. Beyond the significant benefits to the local economy, the global media coverage will place Edinburgh at the heart of the world’s stage, strengthening our city’s international reputation.
“These events not only allow Edinburgh’s residents to see some of the world’s leading cyclists in action but also showcase the very best of the city to travelling tourists and athletes.
“Cycling in the Capital continues to grow in popularity, so hosting another major event is fantastic news. I’m confident the people of Edinburgh will come out in full support of the riders, and a successful Grand Départ will surely ignite even more passion for the sport.”
To find out more information and keep up-to-date with the 2027 Grand Départs, please visit letourgb.com
The Caledonian Edinburgh is inviting Scottish artists and designers to submit entries for a unique art installation in their newly refurbished food & drinks destination, The Court.
The selected artist will receive a £10,000 commission to create a hero piece that will become a focal point of this iconic space.
About The Court:
Blending vintage luxury with mid-century design, The Court is a vibrant social hub celebrating artistry, culture, and music. The space features a grand cocktail bar, exceptional all-day dining, a patisserie, lounge and also a live music stage.
Brief
While the hotel’s rich history is acknowledged, we encourage artists to think beyond heritage and rail travel themes, creating a unique and engaging work that complements the newly re-imagined space’s energy and atmosphere. Visual excellence, storytelling, conceptual thinking, technical craftsmanship, subject depth, and understanding will be several of the aspects that the judging panel will take into consideration when successfully awarding the commission.
Entries should fit within a wall space of 8200 cm (w) x 3600cm (h), with one piece of art or a series of pieces.
Submission Details:
Entry Period: Open until 31st March 2025
Eligibility: Open to all Scottish artists (entry is free)
Selection Process: Reviewed by The Caledonian Edinburgh’s Ownership and Leadership Team
Artists are invited to visit and view The Court and seek inspiration and insight to their piece.
To submit an entry for the competition, artists can send their proposal, chosen media, length of commission required, and samples of their previous work to marketing@edinburghcaledonian.com and this will be shared with our Team for review.
Exclusive new Contagion & Carnage: The Plague Tour at The Real Mary King’s Close brings to life one of Edinburgh’s darkest chapters
The Real Mary King’s Close is offering an uncompromising look into one of the most devastating chapters of Edinburgh’s history: the Plague.
Recently revealed as the UK’s favourite tourist attraction and 11th best visitor attraction in Europe in this year’s Tripadvisor® Travellers’ Choice® Awards – Best of the Best for 2024, this limited-time event promises a compelling insight into the people who lived—and died—through Edinburgh’s darkest days.
The immersive ‘Contagion & Carnage: The Plague Tour’will take place every Friday and Saturday throughout April 2025, within the atmospheric underground streets of The Real Mary King’s Close. Guests will be transported back to the 17th century during the tour with stories on how the Black Death ravaged the city, as streets were overcrowded and unsanitary.
During the tour, which is not for the faint hearted, guests will learn about figures such as Dr. John Paulitious, Edinburgh’s first official plague doctor, and Lang Meg, a rare female leader of the city’s Foul Clengers—the team tasked with cleaning infected homes and disposing of the dead.
Through storytelling, visitors will witness the impact of the bubonic plague and learn about the desperate measures taken to contain its spread.
Guests will explore the once cramped 17th-century homes, where entire families suffered through illness with little hope of survival. The tour also delves into the gruesome medical practices of the time, from the use of red-hot pokers to treat buboes to the introduction of the now-iconic plague doctor’s beaked mask, an early form of protective clothing.
Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said:“The Real Mary King’s Close is a place filled with excitement and mystery, as guests explore what the city was once like.
“The streets encountered some of Edinburgh’s darkest days, and the plague was one of the most devastating events to hit the city as it ravaged the overcrowded streets. We are proud to be able to tell the story of what happened with our new immersive Plague Tour that will not only bring to life what happened but show how it impacted us all today helping shape modern pandemic responses.”
The experience draws striking parallels between past and present, highlighting the evolution of disease control and the eerie similarities between historic quarantines and modern pandemic responses. This gripping exploration of Edinburgh’s plague-ridden past is both educational and thought-provoking, shedding light on a chapter of history that shaped the city’s future.
The Real Mary King’s Close stands as an important part of Edinburgh’s history. It teaches the following generations about the incredible struggles people faced during the plague, the extreme living conditions, and the punishing impact of social hierarchy.
The tours will be running four times per day every Friday and Saturday throughout April 2025. Tickets for the Plague Tour are priced at £30 per person, with availability limited due to the intimate nature of the tour. Given the expected demand, early booking is highly recommended.
A first opportunity to hear Councillor Stephen Jenkinson, the Council’s new Transport Convener, speak on the role of cycling as part of Edinburgh City Council’s transport policy.
Cllr Jenkinson will be accompanied by Deborah Paton, Head of Transport, Strategy and Partnership at the Council. Deborah has considerable previous transport and active travel policy experience, including at Glasgow and West Lothian Councils.
At the start of his convenership, Cllr Jenkinson said there has been a great deal of consultation and policy development in the last few years, resulting in the Mobility Plan and other excellent policies under Future Streets … and that his priority would now be delivery.
This is a chance to hear what is happening, and to put forward your priorities, ideas and concerns in the QA.
Doors open 6.45 for coffee, stalls and chat, including Spokes Maps at special stall prices, and a stall to join Spokes or renew membership
Questions Questions for the panel, can be emailed to spokes@spokes.org.uk, at least a day in advance. However, questions in person from audience members are likely to have greatest priority on the night
Online We hope to live broadcast on our youtube channel – confirmation nearer the time – and make the recording available soon after
