ELEGIES – Saturday 27 April, 7.30pm Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street
Hamish Henderson (1919-2002), was a soldier-poet and scholar-folk revivalist. Elegies is his first-hand account from the North African desert military campaign for which he won the Somerset Maugham Award.
His dedication of the book: “for our own and the others” sets the story within our own common bonds, fragility and humanity, in the setting of the ‘deadlands’ of Cyrenaica (modern-day Libya). The Elegies also reveal the shared helplessness of those loved ones at home waiting, praying – and dancing.
This production is led by a duo of dancers and choreographers Helen Gould and George Adams who together with dancers Nicola Thomson, Edwin Wen and Aimee Williamson embody and represent the characters from the ten elegies set both in the desert and the dance hall by using ceilidh, jive, swing and lindy hop – the popular social dance culture of the 1940s.
Through their movement directorship Gould and Adams weave into the dance, the reading of the Elegies for the Dead in Cyrenaica by spoken word artists Morag Anderson and Stephen Watt; and specially composed and newly arranged trad music and song by Cera Impala.
Wendy Timmons and Iliyana Nedkova,Elegies co-curators and producers from Traditional Dance Forum of Scotland said: “Elegies is a dance poem of serious reflection – a lament for all lives lost not only in WWII but in our world of conflicts, oppression and inequality.
“We were delighted by the positive reaction we received when it was first performed on Remembrance Day last year, and very proud of everyone who has worked with us on this revised adaptation as part of this year’s Pomegranates Festival.”
Elegies was originally commissioned for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2023, then extended and revised for Pomegranates Festival 2024.
Trad Dance Session
There will be a post-performance lindy hop social dance session, led and accompanied by Pomegranates 2024 resident musicians from the Castle Rock Jazz Band, in the main atrium at the Scottish Storytellling Centre. All welcome. Tickets are Pay What You Can £5, £10 or £15 and available through the Scottish Storytelling Centre Box Office here
The Real Mary King’s Close offers new immersive holiday to live like a 17th century local
Live like a local in 17th century Edinburgh with a stay that sees technology taken away, a visit from the Plague Doctor, and a bucket for a toilet
History lovers now have the chance to live like a 17th century Edinburgh local with a new week-long experience staying in the underground streets of The Real Mary King’s Close that are frozen in time.
You would have to be a ‘fool’ to stay on this immersive experience, as guests see their phones taken from them on arrival, as well as having to use a bucket as toilet, and avoid waste being thrown on them from other guests as they shout ‘Gardyloo!’
The new immersive experience from The Real Mary King’s Close is all about offering an authentic experience as visitors learn what it is like to be a former resident of the close. Edinburgh experienced the worst outbreak of the plague due to the crowded living conditions and over the week-long experience guests can expect visits from the Plague Doctor in their terrifying outfit designed to protect them, including a long cloak and beak-like mask.
As well as visits from the Plague Doctor, guests will live in cramped conditions sharing a bucket for a toilet, however there is no room service in this experience as guests will have to throw their waste out with a shout of ‘Gardyloo!’ so other guests know what is about to wash the streets.
Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said: “As one of the UK’s top-rated experiences on TripAdvisor we are always looking for new ways for guests to immerse themselves in 17th century Edinburgh. What better way to learn what it was like to live on these streets nearly 400 years ago than to actually live on these streets?
“That is why we are set to offer a new week-long experience where guests can stay on the Close and learn what it was really like to live here day-to-day, from having no phones to using a bucket as a toilet, this is set to be an experience like no other, you’d be a fool to miss it!”
A sword made for George IV’s historic visit to Edinburgh and other rare surviving items of Georgian clothing are among almost 100 works from the Royal Collection are now on show as part of Style & Society: Dressing the Georgians.
It is the first exhibition to open at The King’s Gallery at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, formerly known as The Queen’s Gallery, following an 18-month closure for essential maintenance work.
Throughout the exhibition, the fashions recorded in portraiture are used as a lens to explore the many social, political and technological changes that characterised Georgian Britain. Paintings, prints and drawings by artists including Gainsborough, Zoffany and Hogarth are accompanied by a selection of clothing and accessories to tell the story of fashionable dress from George I’s accession in 1714 to the death of George IV in 1830.
Style & Society: Dressing the Georgians takes a closer look at George IV’s 1822 visit to Scotland, the first by a reigning monarch in almost 200 years.
Visitors will see the set of accoutrements specially supplied to the King for the visit by George Hunter & Co, purveyors of Highland dress based on Princes Street in Edinburgh, including an ornate broadsword, made of blued steel inlaid with gold and decorated with Scottish emblems, a belt and a dirk.
Also on display is a full-length portrait of George IV by Fife-born artist Sir David Wilkie, showing the monarch in Royal Stewart tartan and wearing the accoutrements.
The growing textile industries presented artists with fresh challenges as they strived to depict the latest fabrics. A rarely displayed, full-length portrait byThomas Gainsborough of Queen Charlotte is paired with an embellished Indian muslin sacque gown on loan from Historic Royal Palaces, a close match in shape and style to the delicate white dress that glitters with silk netting and tasselled bunches of gold lace in Gainsborough’s painting.
An essential fabric for centuries in Britain, linen was used in a variety of ways in items from washable undergarments to delicate lace, and even shoes, as demonstrated by a pair of baby shoes which belonged to Princess Charlotte, George IV’s only child.
The age of Enlightenment saw ideas about childhood evolve, and this materialised in childrenswear becoming more comfortable and practical. Benjamin West’s portrait of three-year-old Prince Octavius, the 13th child of George III and Queen Charlotte, shows him wearing a skeleton suit – a new style of children’s dress inspired by the functional clothing of working-class sailors. With a toy horse on the floor behind him as he carries his father’s cavalry sword, displayed nearby, it is as if the young prince is pretending to be a hardworking king.
Clothes and undergarments such as bonnets and stays were used to teach children good posture or provide protection. An embroideredbonnet thought to have been worn by Princess Charlotte is on display for the first time after being bequeathed to the Royal Collection in 2022 by a descendant of the then young Princess of Wales’s Preceptress (teacher), Miss Mary Hunt.
All four Georgian monarchs took great interest in military clothing, and the 18th century saw a proliferation of uniform styles.
A preliminary work by Sir Joshua Reynolds of Lord Eglinton, a respected military leader and patron of Robert Burns, demonstrates the finesse of 18th-century portraiture, with headdress feathers appearing to flutter in the Highland breeze.
A deep blue uniform jacket designed by George IV and captured in the monarch’s portrait by Sir William Beechey shows first-hand the richness of military dress.
Georgian jewellery was often highly personal, and much like clothing, was regularly repurposed – even by the royal family. Pearl-adorned buttons from a dress coat belonging to George III were reused to create an eye-catching necklace for the Duchess of Clarence, later Queen Adelaide, shown alongside items of Queen Charlotte’s impressive jewellery collection.
Anna Reynolds, curator of Style & Society: Dressing the Georgians, said: ‘The 18th century was an incredibly innovative period, and the Georgians were responsible for ushering in many of the cultural trends we recognise today.
“From the rising influence of practical working-class dress to the practice of recycling and reusing fabric wherever possible, fashion from this period tells a broader story about what was happening in society.
“It is fascinating just how much we can learn from the paintings, clothing, and accessories on display. And, thanks to our new scheme of £1 tickets, we are looking forward to sharing it with as many people as possible.’
Following a successful run in London, Style & Society: Dressing the Georgians at The King’s Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse is the first Royal Collection Trust exhibition to offer £1 tickets to visitors receiving Universal Credit and other named benefits.
The King’s Gallery will also continue to offer concessionary rates, including reduced tickets for Young People, and the option to convert standard tickets bought directly from Royal Collection Trust into a 1-Year Pass, allowing free re-entry for 12 months.
An accompanying programme of events at The King’s Gallery includes:
Style Natters: Free short talks for visitors will be held weekly on Thursdays at 11:00, each taking an in-depth look at a work of art in the exhibition.
Powder and Pomade: Exhibition curator Anna Reynolds will give a lunchtime lecture on Friday, 3 May on 18th-century wigs and hairstyles, an essential aspect of Georgian style.
Dressing Children in the 18th Century: Assistant Curator Lucy Peter will give a lunchtime lecture on Friday, 21 June exploring new ideas around childhood in the Georgian period, including attitudes towards education and the importance of playing outside.
Recycled Fashion: Family Workshop: The King’s Gallery’s Learning team will hold a fun family workshop on Saturday, 10 August exploring embroidery and other fashions in Georgian Britain. Children will have the chance to create a cape inspired by the exhibition, using recycled paper materials.
Newly Relaunched Marriott Hotel supports Local Edinburgh charity with over £11,000 worth of recycled items following major refurbishment
The recent redevelopment of the former Holyrood Hotel to the new Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood has resulted in the property donating more than £11,000 worth of quality furniture, from armchairs and artwork to televisions and desks to Edinburgh-based charity Scottish Veterans Residences (SVR), following the completion of an extensive refurbishment.
The charity – a registered housing support service based at Whitefoord House, within the City’s UNESCO site in the Old Town – provides supported housing for former members of the UK Armed Forces and their services are available to anyone who has served in HM Forces, Reserve Forces or Merchant Marine, regardless of age or length of service, who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
The team have welcomed Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood’s donation as a vital contribution to their services.
Kirsty Smeaton Brown, SVR’s Residence Manager at Whitefoord House, said: “The donation is a welcome surprise and addition to the Whitefoord House site, which will enhance our communal and living areas.
“We are delighted to be able to make such good use of recycled high-quality furniture and our residents and staff are very grateful for this thoughtful and community-spirited donation.”
The hotel, also located in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic old town is now under new ownership and showcasing the renowned Marriott Hotel standards to their guests.
The hotel’s interiors have been refurbished to the tune of £10m and as a result, the existing furniture from the Holyrood property was recycled and donated to the Residences to support their community.
Michael Falla, General Manager of Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood, commented: “The relaunch of Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood marked a long and exciting development for the City and the Marriott brand.
“The hotel team’s hard work and commitment took the Hotel to the next stage of its journey, and we are delighted to have the opportunity to serve our local community.
“We are very proud to be able to play our part in the incredibly worthwhile mission Scottish Veterans Residences fulfil daily and the support they offer to former members of the UK Armed Forces by donating the furniture we replaced during the refurbishment.”
Scottish Veterans Residences also operate at Rosendael, Dundee and Bellrock Close, in the East End of Glasgow.
To learn more about Scottish Veterans Residences and to donate directly, visit https://www.svronline.org
For more information on the newly refurbished Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood, visit www.marriott.com/edimh
A new exhibition inspired by Scottish fishing communities and seascapes of the North East will go on display at the Scottish Storytelling Centre as part of the TRACS programme during Edinburgh Tradfest from 3 May to 15 June 2024.
Artist Stephanïe Vandëm imaginatively combines oils and mixed media materials salvaged from harbours, beaches and shipyards to create large-scale works that evoke the linkages between the communities of the North East of Scotland and their fishing heritage.
Drawing from the rich traditions of Renaissance and Latin American art, FISHING will present 13 semi-sculptural works that explore the pressing environmental and identity concerns of our time.
Rubber gloves, ropes, nets, buoys, and crab shells are used to give tri dimensionality and texture to the works. Plastic sushi fish drained of their soy lifeforce cling to the surfaces making us ponder their infinite life expectancy and the material’s detriment to all sea and land-living creatures.
Screws, nails, and other metal bits left by the artist’s late husband populate the paintings’ surfaces recreating the colours and textures of a busy shipyard. Pinecones turned into lobster tails; twigs turned into crab’s eyes all used to create compositions that connect us emotionally to Time, Identity, Heritage, and the Environment.
Artist Stephanie Vandëm explains: “My work is firmly rooted in classical principles, merging time-tested oil painting techniques and semi-abstraction, to pressing contemporary themes and universal human struggles, resulting in monumental semi-sculptural paintings.
“The pieces resemble an archaeological find sedimented in cement, sand, metal and found objects. They create puzzles, connecting the personal, political, and spiritual elements of my own life and practice. Aberdeenshire’s motto, ‘from mountain to sea’ inspired me throughout this collection.”
Sculptural pieces in the exhibition include boxes encased in sand, cement and the ‘bones’ of a metal creel looking like they have been hauled from the sea depths, bearing witness to the many lives lost across generations and continents.
The tactile and playful nature of the work invites audiences to interact with it by moving the ropes and nets, to create new images and build stories within stories to explore beneath the surface layers leaving space for personal interpretations.
Steve Byrne, Director of TRACS said: “As someone who grew up on Scotland’s east coast, I was immediately struck by the familiarity and strong imagery of Stephanie’s work.
“It resonated with me and the sense of place I feel about that part of the world. I recognised the shapes and colours of the kind of work taking place in harbours up and down the coast that have been a key part of local communities for decades.
“In celebrating the contribution of fisher folk, the exhibition gives voice to those involved in a precarious industry that has so much heritage, tradition and craft to explore, which often mean a great deal to fisher folk and their families.
“The works also challenge us to think about our impact on the environment through the inclusion of shore finds, opening up conversations around sustainability.
“At TRACS we look forward to helping safeguard that living heritage and lore, the traditions and customs of fisher communities through our developing work with Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) in Scotland.”
The exhibition will also be complemented by information panels on traditional craftwork related to fishing communities, in partnership with the Scottish Fisheries Museum at Anstruther.
About the artist
Brazilian by birth and educated in Paris, London, New York, and Florence Stephanïe Vandëm worked extensively abroad before settling in the Northeast of Scotland. Her style lies between realism and abstraction, painting and sculpture with a strong sense of narrative derived from the artist’s Latin American roots.
The artist’s creative practice is a fusion of videography, soundscapes, installations, social media participation and mixed-media that creates engaging and powerful contemporary pieces.
With some awards under her belt, Stephanïe Vandëm works in her studio between the mountains and the sea in the idyllic Scottish countryside. The artist’s strong background in the world of portraiture also sees her work on many private commissions, including painting the formal portrait of the Bishop of Aberdeen.
Her pieces can be found in many national and international private collections such as the luxury Fife Arms Hotel, owned by international art dealer Iwan Wirth.
FISHING is part of TRACS’ (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) programme of events showcasing Scotland’s traditional arts and cultural heritage.
TRACS has been recently appointed as an advisor to UNESCO on Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) in Scotland and this exhibition showcases ICH in practice through highlighting the unique ways of life, practices, and rich folklore of fishing communities on the east coast of Scotland.
The Real Mary King’s Close launches its brand-new Medical History Tours, a unique guided experience which takes guests on a journey through the fascinating development of medicine through time
Located beneath the Scottish capital’s iconic Royal Mile, The Real Mary King’s Close is launching a brand-new tour based on 17th century medicine this Edinburgh Science Festival.
The new Medical History Tour will explore the nature and development of Edinburgh’s last plague outbreak, as well as the stories of Scots who revolutionised medicine to make it what it is today. All whilst exploring Edinburgh’s iconic underground street.
Edinburgh has famously been a focal point for medical innovation and experimentation. The city’s medical school is the oldest in the English-speaking world and was at the heart of the Scottish Enlightenment. While many amazing discoveries and advancements came from Edinburgh, like everywhere, some ideas were slightly strange…
Guests will learn about everything from the unusual methods of diagnoses employed by local apothecaries – such as former resident of Mary King’s Close, Dr Arnott – to the city’s worst plague outbreak.
Due to overcrowding within the city walls, the plague permeated the area in 1645. Those suffering from the plague would hang a white sheet from their window to warn their neighbours to keep away, quarantining themselves while awaiting a visit from the Plague Doctor.
Visitors will also learn about key moments in history that defined 19th century medicine, such as the formation of the Edinburgh Seven – an all-female group of aspiring doctors spearheaded by Sophia Jex-Blake, who fought for women’s education and the right to practice medicine.
The story of Dr James Barry is also highlighted on the tour, a renowned military surgeon who performed the first successful caesarean section in the British Empire.
The celebrated attraction continues to provide both tourists and locals in Edinburgh with a fascinating glimpse into the city’s dark past. As a result, The Real Mary King’s Close has not only established itself as one of Edinburgh’s top tourist attractions, but as one of the UK’s most highly rated experiences on TripAdvisor.
The new Medical History Tours from part of Edinburgh Science Festival, running from the 30th March to the 14th April.
Each year, the world-class Science Festival brings science to life through an exciting array of events, workshops, shows, and talks for all ages.
Whether you’re a science enthusiast, a curious mind, a creative or a family looking for an educational adventure, the Edinburgh Science Festival promises amazing and interactive experiences.
Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming people to our brand-new Medical History Tours at The Real Mary King’s Close.
“On the tour, we delve into the fascinating history of the medical scene here in Edinburgh, hearing from pioneers in the field. Our team is passionate about telling powerful stories and educating people about Edinburgh’s rich history.
“We can’t wait to see new and familiar faces on the tour and look forward to inspiring the next generation of budding doctors!”
Tours are available on Saturday 30th March, Saturday 6th April and Saturday 13th April.
Mercy Cuthbertson from North Tyneside is a six-year-old girl who has enjoyed a very special experience day in Edinburgh after Newcastle-based train operator Lumo learned of her passion for the company’s bright blue trains.
Mercy is bravely fighting an aggressive paediatric brain tumour. Her parents Lorraine and Paul have already raised more than £113,000 towards a target of £120,000 for some life-saving trials abroad.
Open access train operator Lumo contacted Mercy’s parents offering a special VIP day trip to Edinburgh where the family were invited to an exclusive performance at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in the city’s Royal Mile followed by a visit to Edinburgh Castle.
Richard Salkeld, Head of Communications and Partnerships at Lumo, said: “When we heard about Mercy’s story and her love of our trains, we began to create a truly memorable experience for her and her parents.
“We teamed up with Imaginate: The Edinburgh International Children’s Festival, the Scottish Storytelling Centre and Edinburgh Castle to help organise what was a very special action-packed visit to Edinburgh.
“As a company proudly based in Newcastle, we’re committed to supporting the communities on our route so today has been a joy to help make happen for Mercy.”
As part of the visit Mercy was invited into the driver’s cab after they arrived at Edinburgh Waverley where she posed for photographs with some of the onboard team from Lumo.
Lorraine Cuthbertson, Mercy’s mother, said: “Today has been incredible. We’ve been made to feel so welcome and enjoyed some magnificent magical moments that we’ll never forget. Mercy loved her visit to the driver’s cab on the train and meeting the unicorn at the Scottish Storytelling Centre.”
The whirlwind visit to Edinburgh was Mercy’s first time travelling on the all-electric Lumo train. She posed with a specially made giant ticket as a memento of her day before boarding at Newcastle on Friday morning.
Paul Cuthbertson, Mercy’s father, said: “She’s had a brilliant day and has been treated like royalty. It’s been so special, and I think everyone had a tear in her eye when she reached out and stroked the unicorn who she named Twinkle. Thanks to everyone who helped make today so unforgettable.”
Mercy’s fundraising campaign continues to receive generous support from people in the North East but has also received donations from around the world as her parents work tirelessly to raise funds in a bid to do all they can to help Mercy.
For anyone wishing to donate to Mercy’s campaign, they can visit here.
The former established Holyrood Hotel has relaunched today as Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood, marking the completion of an extensive £10m refurbishment.
The hotel, which has been a long-standing fixture in Edinburgh’s historic old town as a Macdonald Hotels’ property, has been seamlessly integrated into Marriott’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands.
Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic old town, the hotel, under new ownership, has been brought up to Marriott Hotel standards with an extensive refurbishment. Marriott’s signature style is found throughout all facets of the property and guests can now enjoy an enriched experience with modern, inviting spaces.
With nearly 600 hotels and resorts in over 65 countries and territories around the world, Marriott Hotels continues to elevate the art of hospitality and the new look Holyrood property is synonymous with Marriott’s commitment to delivering enriching experiences, modern design, heartfelt service and timeless hospitality.
The guest journey begins with a heartfelt welcome into the new Greatroom lobby, known as the pulse of every Marriott Hotel. With space to connect, work, or unwind, this is a key feature of the refurbishment, a relaxed and sophisticated lifestyle space, bar, dining area and welcoming lobby.
Perfect for guests and local residents alike to catch up over coffee or cocktails or dine from a carefully curated, locally sourced lunch and dinner menu as well as grazing and sharing platters. Afternoon tea is also served in the Greatroom.
The hotel’s Spa and Fitness Centre, with its 14m-heated pool, infrared Sauna, and fully equipped state-of-the-art gym has also been fully renovated and upgraded for guests and members to enjoy.
The 160 sophisticated and inviting guest bedrooms include Junior Suites, Deluxe and King Rooms with sleek wooden floors, and drench walk-in showers amongst other facilities. All rooms boast spacious en-suites, comfortable beds, cosy armchairs and 55-inch wall mounted flat screen TVs as standard.
The city’s vibrant arts scene is reflected in the art on display and carpet designs throughout; inspired by the late Scottish artist, Edinburgh-born Sir Eduardo Luigi Paolozzi CBE RA, known for his sculpture and graphic work and widely considered to be one of the pioneers of pop art.
The local influence combines with Marriott’s modern design aesthetics, with interiors based on a cool neutral palette featuring intricate multidimensional patterns and layered textures of natural materials such as marble, sand, onyx and water with rich patterns, an intriguing design tension that provides visual interest and invites reflection.
Media and event spaces have been redesigned and fully equipped to offer excellent new meeting facilities in the city. Marriott’s renowned M Club Lounge also adds a new dimension to the hotel and is designed to recognise and reward Marriott Bonvoy’s Elite members.
Platinum Elite, Titanium Elite and Ambassador Elite status members are able to enjoy 24/7 complimentary access to a private and exclusive space for every stay. Located on the first floor, the space is light and modern with an air of relaxed formality designed to facilitate productivity, relaxation and creativity.
Michael Falla, General Manager of Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood, commented: “The relaunch of Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood is an exciting development for the City and the Marriott brand.
“It is incredible to see the refurbishment nearing completion; bringing the aesthetic of the property and quality of service up to Marriott standards is testament to the hotel team’s hard work and commitment to take the Hotel on the next stage of its journey.
“Edinburgh is such a vibrant city bursting with history and culture, we’re looking forward to welcoming our new and returning guests to enjoy an elevated and enriched Marriott experience with all that the city has to offer.”
Enjoying a prime location in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic old town, within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Edinburgh Marriott Hotel is situated directly opposite the Scottish Parliament building, Dynamic Earth and Royal Holyroodhouse, the official residency of the monarchy in Scotland.
Holyrood is not only a short walk from Edinburgh Waverley, it’s minutes from the historic Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park so the ideal place to enjoy all that the City has to offer from its world-class visitor attractions to great shopping, walking and cycling routes in and around Edinburgh.
Marriott Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International.
The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.
To enroll for free or for more information about the programme, visit:
Top Edinburgh attraction, The Real Mary King’s Close, reports best ever year after welcoming over a quarter of a million guests
The Real Mary King’s Close reports a record-breaking year for 2023 after welcoming over a quarter of a million guests underground to explore the hidden streets of Edinburgh. Located beneath the Capital’s iconic Royal Mile, the Close saw over 257,000 visitors, smashing their previous record year in 2019 by over 10,000 people.
The Real Mary King’s Close has not only established itself as one of Edinburgh’s top tourist attractions, but as one of the UK’s most highly rated experiences on TripAdvisor; inviting visitors to journey underground, encounter fascinating former residents, and become immersed in the city’s secrets and untold stories.
Even with the increase in number of visitors, the attraction is at an all-time high with a 5-star rating on TripAdvisor, holding prestigious spots such as the 4thbest thing to do in Edinburgh and 10th best visitor attraction in the UK.
The celebrated attraction continues to provide both tourists and locals in Edinburgh with a fascinating glimpse into the city’s dark past; such as the extreme living conditions endured during the plague and the harsh effects of social hierarchy during the 17th century.
Since reopening in May 2021 post-pandemic, the Close has welcomed over half a million guests, as people from all over the world come to learn about Edinburgh’s rich history. In 2023 alone, the attraction welcomed visitors from 162 different countries including France, China, USA, Peru, Swaziland and Kazakhstan.
The year was topped off with the completion of an exciting renovation project. Following a £200,000 investment, the Close transformed its listed Burgh Courtroom, located in Edinburgh’s City Chambers, into an impressive new retail experience on the Royal Mile, elevating the space and the experience.
Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said: “We are thrilled to have had such a successful year in 2023 and welcome so many people from all over the world, it is a true testament to everyone here in the team.
“We first opened our doors 20 years ago in 2003 to reveal the true stories of Mary King’s Close and its former residents. Since then, we have grown from strength to strength, positioning ourselves as a leading attraction in Scotland’s historical tourism sector.
“Summer is always a particularly popular time for us, however 2023 saw a fantastic level of growth all year, with significant increase in numbers during the low seasons as well. No matter the time of year there’s plenty to discover here at the Close.”
“At the Close we are passionate about storytelling and creating unforgettable experiences that transport our visitors back in time. As we do this, we also look forward to the future and we can’t wait to see what 2024 will bring!”
For more information about The Real Mary King’s Close and bookings please visit:
Calling all brave and curious explorers, this February The Real Mary King’s Close is shining a light (or lack of) onto Edinburgh’s history, illuminating the lives of former residents and unravelling truths about their deaths with Lantern Led Tours.
The Lantern Led Tours are available for a limited time only during Half Term, where guests will descend into complete darkness with the only light source being the flicker of their lanterns, as they explore Edinburgh’s history.
Hidden beneath the Capital’s iconic Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s best underground experience is ready to send those daring to on a time-traveling adventure.
The one hour guided tour will transport customers to another era, with eerie interactions from two insidious characters that used to strike terror into people’s hearts at their very sight.
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 and stands as an important part of Edinburgh’s history.
“We’re delighted to re-launch our popular Lantern Led Tours after a highly successful run last year and give visitors the chance to follow in the footsteps of past residents, this time with only a lantern to guide them.
“This is the perfect activity to do with friends and family over the February holidays and discover more about the city’s dark past together.”
Lantern Led tours open from Friday 9th February to Monday 26th February, running each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6pm to 9pm.
Tickets cost £30 per adult and £24 per child (5 to 15yo – no under 5’s allowed).
