Category: Old Town

The Real Mary King’s Close celebrates another record-breaking year as visitor numbers continue to rise

VISITORS FROM 147 COUNTRIES FUEL RECORD YEAR

One of Edinburgh’s leading visitor attractions, The Real Mary King’s Close, has reported another record-breaking year after welcoming 296,726 guests in 2025, marking continued year-on-year growth and reinforcing its position as one of the Capital’s most popular experiences.

The latest figures represent an impressive 5% increase on 2024, when the attraction welcomed 282,525 visitors, making 2025 the third consecutive record year for The Close. Located beneath Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, the attraction continues to draw strong interest from both domestic and international audiences keen to explore the city’s hidden history.

Traditionally one of Edinburgh’s peak summer months, July saw 38,079 visitors undeterred by warmer weather, instead choosing to step below the Royal Mile to uncover Auld Reekie’s rich heritage, hidden streets, and stories from the city’s past.

Over the course of the year, The Real Mary King’s Close welcomed visitors from 147 countries, underlining its global appeal. International guests travelled from as far afield as the Åland Islands, Belize, French Polynesia, Kyrgyzstan, Mauritius, Namibia and Nepal, alongside key tourism markets in Europe, North America and Asia.

The visitor site’s reputation is further reflected in its online performance, now boasting over 5,780 reviews across Google and Tripadvisor, with 93% rated four stars or higher, positioning it among Edinburgh’s highest-rated cultural experiences.

Alongside its core offering, The Real Mary King’s Close continued to expand and diversify its programme in 2025, launching two new tours while seeing strong ongoing demand for its established special experiences. Introduced in April, Carnage and Contagion: The Plague Tour welcomed 574 guests; Coffee & Closes, in partnership with John’s Coffee House, attracted 884 guests in its first year.

These new additions sat alongside the continued success of specialist and limited-run experiences, which allow returning visitors the opportunity to delve into different facets of Scotland’s history, including the Dr Arnott Experience, which welcomed 3,043 guests, and four Underground Unlocked free-flow events that together welcomed 976 guests. 

Retail performance also remained strong, with historically inspired merchandise proving particularly popular. Best-selling items included the Plague Dr Shopper bag, with 5,363 units sold, and the Plague Ducktor, which sold 3,538 units during the year.

Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close said: “Achieving another record-breaking year is a fantastic milestone and demonstrates the overwhelming appetite for immersive, high-quality historical experiences in our Capital City.  Our dedicated team welcomed nearly 300,000 guests in 2025, from 147 different countries.

“We are continuing to evolve our offering through new tours and experiences while staying true to what makes The Close distinctive – its powerful storytelling, authenticity and a deep connection to Edinburgh’s past. It’s so encouraging to see consistent growth across both the peak and shoulder seasons, and we’re excited to build on this momentum.”

For more information about The Real Mary King’s Close and bookings please visit: 

www.realmarykingsclose.com

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo announces biggest-ever charity donation of £1.5 million

Landmark contribution marks the Tattoo’s largest ever investment in arts and cultural organisations

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has announced the largest charitable donation in its history, awarding a monumental £1.5 million to good causes following the success of its 2025 Show, The Heroes Who Made Us.

The record-breaking total will support 15 military and arts charities, significantly increasing funding across the Tattoo’s full charity portfolio and ensuring vital support reaches organisations working with communities and individuals most in need.

Between 2016 and 2019, the Tattoo donated £1 million annually to charitable causes, before contributions were impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Setting an ambitious goal to return to and surpass this figure by 2025, the organisation has now exceeded expectations, marking a major milestone in its 75-year history.

The announcement follows an additional £157,000 donation to St Columba’s Hospice, generated through a 2025 initiative that saw 75p from every ticket sale donated to the Edinburgh hospice.

The charity milestone comes as the organisation looks ahead to its 2026 Show, A Call To Gather, with creative ambitions continuing to evolve under the Tattoo’s Creative Director, Alan Lane (above).

The Show is inspired by tradition rooted in Scottish identity, which saw the gathering of the clans become a gathering of nations, allies, friends, and kindred spirits, all with a shared purpose. The call has gone out to attend the must-see Tattoo performance in the summer of 2026.

Bill Morris LVO, Board Chairman of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “This extraordinary £1.5 million donation represents the very heart of what the Tattoo stands for which is using our global platform to make a meaningful difference.

“The success of the 2025 Show has allowed us not only to honour our past, but to invest in causes that will have a lasting impact on lives across the UK and beyond.

“We are immensely proud of what has been achieved and grateful to everyone who played a part in reaching this milestone.”

Jason Barrett, Chief Executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “2025 was a monumental year for the Tattoo, and it’s incredibly special to see that success translated into tangible support for so many charitable causes.

“We are of course proud to continue our long-standing support for our military colleagues, but this year also marks our largest ever donation to the arts. At a time when arts organisations are under increasing pressure, this contribution recognises the powerful connection between the arts, performance and the military – a connection that the Tattoo embodies so successfully.

“This achievement belongs to our performers, our teams, and the audiences who joined us night after night and sets an exciting foundation as we enter 2026.”

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo returns for their 2026 Show, A Call to Gather, from 7 – 29 August and tickets can be purchased at:

edintattoo.co.uk/tickets 

or on the phone on 0131 225 1188.

Encore Bars Group acquires The Globe Bar in Edinburgh

Specialist business property adviser Christie & Co has announced that The Globe Bar on Niddry Street has been acquired by hospitality operator Encore Bars Group, adding to the group’s growing city centre portfolio.

Encore Bars Group operates several venues across the city including The Boston Bar on Hanover Street, Freddy’s on Frederick Street, and Westside Rodeo on George Street.

The new owners ran The Globe Bar in its current format over the festive period before closing after Hogmanay for a full refurbishment. They plan to reopen the venue in February 2026 with a new concept.

Edward Fox, Director at Encore Bars, said, “We are delighted to be setting some roots in the Old Town for our expanding group. We have been looking for the right venue, and definitely feel we have found it at The Globe. 

“We can’t wait to add our personality and touch to the venue in the New Year, aiming to open in February 2026 with our next concept.”

Simon Watson, Senior Business Agent at Christie & Co commented, “We are delighted to get this deal over the line for Edward and the team at Encore Bars. It is an excellent location to expand their business into Edinburgh’s Old Town. 

“Our role goes beyond selling agents, and through our established network and contacts we are also able to identify acquisition opportunities.

“We welcome confidential, no‑obligation discussions for those looking to explore their options in the hospitality sector.”

Celebrate Burns Night in an exclusive Edinburgh venue with rare whiskies and immersive storytelling

This month, The Lost Close invites you to experience Burns Night in a way few ever will – an intimate evening of Scottish heritage, exceptional whiskies, and captivating storytelling in two of Edinburgh’s most exclusive private spaces.

On 24th and 25th January 2026, only 20 guests per night will step inside a private luxury apartment overlooking St Giles’ Cathedral, Mercat Cross, and Parliament Square; a venue rarely open to the public with incredible views.

From the moment you arrive at 6pm to the sound of the pipes, the evening unfolds as a celebration of Scotland’s culture and history. Guests will be welcomed with a glass of fizz before the ceremonial “Address to a Haggis,” performed by a bagpiper as the haggis is led in.

Throughout the night, storytelling takes centre stage. Expert hosts will share tales of Robert Burns and the poet Robert Fergusson, whose work profoundly influenced him, alongside stories of Parliament Square, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the fascinating history of The Lost Close itself.

Between these moments, guests will enjoy a three-course Scottish dinner, with each dish paired with an exceptional whisky introduced by The Lost Close’s whisky expert.

The tasting features four remarkable Scotch whiskies, including Annandale Distillery’s Man O’Words, a single cask expression from the two-century old Scottish distillery, and An Edinburgh Dram, distilled in 1991 at North British and matured for over 33 years.

The evening concludes underground at The Lost Close, where guests will savour The Lost Close 2, a single cask release exclusive to the venue, bottled at 57.6% ABV with only 190 bottles ever produced.

After the final dram, guests are welcome to linger in the atmospheric underground setting until 11pm.

This is not just a Burns Night supper – it is an immersive journey through Scotland’s poetry, history, and craftsmanship in a setting few will ever experience.

Event Details:

  • Dates: 24 & 25 January 2026
  • Time: From 6pm
  • Price: £155 per person
  • Capacity: Limited to 20 guests per night

Booking is essential. 

For reservations and more information, visit: https://thelostclose.com/book-now

Sensory Sunday at Camera Obscura

This Sunday, spend an Adapted Morning at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions 🌿

Our next session is on 1st February from 9:30 to 11:00 am.

Book here: https://www.camera-obscura.co.uk/…/article/sensory-sunday/💫

#SensorySunday

#Accessibility

#CameraObscura

#Edinburgh

#VisitScotland

#DaysOut

#daysoutwithkids

Books as Art at Central Library

Our new exhibition on the Mezzanine, Books as Art, opens this Saturday 3rd January, our first day of services in 2026.

This exhibition presents a selection of artists’ books from the Art & Design Library, revealing the remarkable range and freedom of a form that continues to challenge how we see, read, and move through the world.

Bringing together works from Britain and abroad, the exhibition traces the many ways artists use the book as a site of exploration—from walking, observing, and documenting the everyday, to testing the boundaries between text and image, material and message, intimacy and public voice.

#artanddesignlibrary

#centrallibraryedinburgh

#edinburgh

#modernandcontemporaryart

#specialcollections

#exhibition

#artistsbooks

#booksasart

Arthur’s Seat among the most popular destinations for a winter walk

Analysing TripAdvisor ratings, festive mentions in TripAdvisor reviews, average snowfall in December and the distance to the closest cosy pub, the team at GO Outdoors have highlighted the best places to head out to for a festive walk:

The UK’s Best Christmas Walks:

RankLocationAreaCountryTripAdvisor Rating /5Reviews Mentioning Festive KeywordsSnowfall in December (cm)Miles to Closest PubOverall Score /10
1Barmouth BeachBarmouthWales4.728.6%1.50.29.09
2Glastonbury TorSomersetEngland4.729.3%0.80.58.46
3Bournemouth BeachBournemouthEngland4.535.5%0.50.48.04
4Arthur’s SeatEdinburghScotland4.718.0%1.70.57.94
5Calton HillEdinburghScotland4.616.6%1.70.27.84
6Camber SandsCamberEngland4.330.5%0.60.27.83
7Filey BeachNorth YorkshireEngland4.729.0%0.00.27.63
8Fistral BeachCornwallEngland4.632.3%0.00.27.52
9Brighton BeachBrightonEngland4.130.4%0.30.17.42
10DovedaleAshbourneEngland4.528.9%3.41.57.41

Barmouth Beach has been crowned the UK’s best Christmas walk, scoring an impressive 9.09 out of 10. 

Located in southern Snowdonia, the beach has a Christmassy feel in winter, with 29% of reviews highlighting festive elements. With a seafront path, it’s a great spot for both family outings and peaceful solo walks. December can bring occasional light snowfall, and with a pub only 0.2 miles away, there’s a convenient spot to warm up after your walk.

Glastonbury Tor takes second place with a Christmas score of 8.46 out of 10. 

The route is a steady, manageable climb that ends with wide views of Somerset. Although the incline requires a bit of effort, most walkers will find it comfortable, making it suitable for most abilities. With 29% of reviews mentioning festive terms, it’s a great choice for a December outing, and with a pub only 0.5 miles away, it’s easy to round off the walk with a warm drink or meal.

Bournemouth Beach comes in third with a Christmas score of 8.04 out of 10. 

It stands out for its festive atmosphere, receiving the highest percentage of reviews mentioning festive charm among the top 10 walks. The long sandy shore and wide promenade make it perfect for a leisurely winter stroll. Occasional light snowfall in December can add a touch of magic, giving the beach an especially Christmassy feel.

Natalie Wolfenden, Author and outdoor enthusiast at GO Outdoors, said: “A Christmas walk is a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors during the colder months, and the UK offers plenty of festive destinations to explore. Whether you’re heading to Somerset or Edinburgh, a little preparation can make your outing even more enjoyable.

“Plan your route well in advance and make sure it’s suitable for everyone taking part. With the colder weather, it’s best to choose paths you’re confident with, as this will make it easier for you to relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

“Dressing in warm, breathable layers with an insulated coat will help you stay comfortable, and supportive footwear is essential for any slippery or uneven terrain. If temperatures are set to drop particularly low, a hat and gloves can make a big difference to how long you’re able to stay outside comfortably.

“Finally, on the day of your walk, be sure to check the latest weather forecast before heading out, and be ready to change your plans if conditions take a turn.

“Staying flexible will help ensure a more enjoyable Christmas outing!”

Where Science Meets Santa: Dynamic Earth’s Winter Wonderland

This Christmas, Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh’s Science Centre and Planetarium, will once again be bringing festive sparkle to the heart of Edinburgh with a programme of events that combines seasonal magic with science and storytelling.

From Santa’s Polar Grotto to festive family films, late-night Planetarium screenings, seasonal science clubs and the return of the Aurora Borealis show, the centre will be brimming with activities for all ages between 29 November and 23 December.

At the heart of the celebrations is Santa’s Polar Grotto, Edinburgh’s only grotto set beneath the Northern Lights. Families will be guided by Head Elf Polaris to the festive Arctic grotto, where they can meet Santa and his Polar Protectors, the arctic fox, polar bear, snowy owl and arctic hare. Alongside enchanting tales, each child will receive a token to exchange for a cuddly gift to take home, ensuring a magical keepsake from their visit.

Film fans are also in for a treat, with festive favourites returning to the big screen at Dynamic Earth selected weekend mornings at 10am. The line-up includes The Polar Express, The Grinch, Home Alone and Elf, with additional screenings running in the days leading up to Christmas. 

Dynamic Earth’s younger visitors can join the popular Dynamites (0–4) and Dynamos (4–6) science clubs, which take on a seasonal flavour with “Reindeer Games” on 5, 12 and 19 December. C

hildren will discover how reindeer are specially adapted to survive the polar environment, handle real antlers, and get creative with themed crafts, all while enjoying access to the centre’s soft play area.

Adding to the atmosphere, the winter Planetarium show will once again showcase the wonder of the Aurora Borealis, immersing audiences in the science and spectacle of one of nature’s most dazzling phenomena.

Anastasia Rocke, Interim CEO at Dynamic Earth, said: “Christmas at Dynamic Earth is all about creating magical moments that also inspire curiosity about our planet.

“From meeting Santa set against the backdrop of the Northern Lights to learning about the amazing wildlife of the Arctic, we’re thrilled to offer families and visitors a truly unique festive experience in Edinburgh.”

Visitors to last year’s grotto agreed, with one parent commenting: “Wonderful experience! Very professionally done, great value for money, a real sense that everyone wanted to be there.

“Loved the fact that my daughter didn’t have to sit on Santa’s knee but could sit on a polar bear as well!”

Tickets for Santa’s Polar Grotto, films, Planetarium Lates and seasonal science sessions are available now at dynamicearth.org.uk. 

Advance booking is strongly advised as places are limited.

Photography competition to kick off 30th birthday celebrations for Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site

Residents and visitors are invited to enter a photography competition, launched to celebrate Edinburgh’s 30 years on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The competition is being run by the partners who look after the site: Edinburgh World Heritage (EWH), Historic Environment Scotland (HES), and the City of Edinburgh Council.

Entries will be grouped into twelve categories, each celebrating a particular value of Scotland’s capital city. The winning photograph in each category will become part of a year-long calendar, which will be sold on Historic Scotland sites and at Edinburgh World Heritage events to raise money for the Trust.

The over-all winner will take price of place on the front cover of the calendar and will receive a one-year membership for Historic Scotland, who run top-rated visitor attractions all over the country.

The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh were first inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995, where they were recognised as one of the most extraordinary urban landscapes in the world. With its division into Old and New Town, Edinburgh is a remarkable example of urban growth, showcasing two distinct but equally significant styles of city planning.

Photography enthusiasts will have until October 2026 to submit their work showcasing Edinburgh in all its glory across the seasons. The competition is open to both amateur and professional photographers, using any camera or device.

The entries will be judged by Tom Duffin, a professional photographer who specialises in showcasing Edinburgh’s heritage; Neil Hanna, a multi-award-winning photographer with over 35 years of experience; and Jane Bradley, celebrated Arts and Culture Correspondent at the Scotsman.

Terry Levinthal, Director of Edinburgh World Heritage, said: “Edinburgh is a city of matchless qualities.  It is a city of contrasts; of distant prospects and intimate details; a city of old and new; a place to be admired and be lived in.  

“These very picturesque qualities make it the perfect subject for photography.  To mark 30 years since inscription, we hope that everyone will be inspired to share their favourite views, details, buildings and places with us, so that we can share them with others.”

James Bruhn, Head of World Heritage and Heritage Policy at HES, said: “When a place is inscribed on the World Heritage List, that is by no means the end of the story.

“Edinburgh is a living, breathing place, and we are excited to support this competition and give local photographers the chance to capture Edinburgh’s unique beauty and win a membership to visit historic sites across the country.”

Cllr Joan Griffiths Planning Convener said: “I’d encourage everyone with an interest in photography to help us celebrate this significant milestone for the Old and New Towns World Heritage Site by entering the competition for a chance to be part of this exciting calendar.  I’m really looking forward to seeing the results.

“It’s a huge accolade to hold World Heritage Status and it’s extra challenging for a living, breathing city. We look after the Site with our partners and it’s important to us to make sure our residents from across the city feel a sense of ownership and belonging to the Site.

“The competition and resulting calendar is a great opportunity for people to reflect on what the Site means for them through their art as well as what they find special or feel proud of in this internationally renowned part of the Capital.”

The twelve categories for which applicants can submit their photographs are:

  1. Medieval Old Town
  2. Neo-classical New Town
  3. Gardens and open spaces
  4. Urban planning/street layout
  5. Topography and skyline
  6. Public and commercial monuments
  7. Conservation
  8. Layering of heritage
  9. Architectural detail
  10. Graveyards
  11. Juxtaposition
  12. The Living City

To learn more about the competition and prepare to take the perfect shot, visit this document.

Kids Clothes Swap at The Crannie

SATURDAY 13 DECEMBER from 11am – 1pm

Got clothes your kids have outgrown? 👕

Join us for a fun swap meet where you can refresh their wardrobe for free!

You can bring and exchange up to 10 quality and clean items of kid clothing, including prams and other practical items.

This is the perfect event to find some new essentials as we head into these new colder seasons! Join us for some coffee, pastries and kid friendly crafts!

When: Saturday, 13 December | 11 am – 1 pm

Where: The Crannie | Edinburgh EH8 8BE

Registration, rules and donation info:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1967661118373?aff=oddtdtcreator