The Real Mary King's Close (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Real Mary King's Close?
What makes it 67% Kids-Friendly: Children 5–12 may join with an adult and enjoy characters plus Annie’s Room toy ritual, but 96 stairs, darkness, and plague stories may frighten or tire some, and strollers are not allowed.
Positives:
- Immersive Storytelling: Costumed guides bring history alive with character interactions that engage kids.
- Interactive Traditions: Leaving toys in Annie’s Room creates a hands-on moment and teaches charity.
Challenges:
- Age Restriction: Children under 5 are not allowed on the tour—plan childcare or check with the venue.
- Physical Layout: Tour involves 38 steps down and 58 up plus narrow passages—strollers and wheelchairs are not supported.
What is The Real Mary King's Close?
- A subterranean network of 17th-century streets and dwellings lying beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile
- A historical site that comprises former slum quarters sealed in 1645 during the Black Death and later rediscovered
- An underground time capsule revealing medieval urban planning through narrow closes, vaulted stone passages and period architecture
What is so special about The Real Mary King's Close for with kids?
- Live guides in costume make history fun and engaging for kids.
- Annie’s Room lets children participate by donating toys.
- Free audio app supports multiple languages for self-paced touring.
- Hot chocolate and souvenirs add a family-friendly finish.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A guided tour and a quick treat break fit young kids’ attention spans.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Real Mary King's Close
Standard Guided Family Tour:
Join a 1-hour guided tour with costumed storytellers sharing 17th-century tales.
Tip: Book online in advance and arrive 10 minutes early to check in together.
Annie’s Room Toy Donation:
Kids bring a small toy to comfort Annie’s spirit, then donate it to charity.
Tip: Pack a lightweight toy your child can part with easily.
Audio Guide Self-Tour:
Use the free app in your child’s language to explore at your own pace.
Tip: Download the app before your visit to avoid using venue Wi-Fi.
Hot Chocolate at Mary Ogle’s Cart:
Grab hot chocolate or snacks after your tour for a family treat.
Tip: Try a local shortbread biscuit on the side for a true Edinburgh taste.
When is the best time to visit The Real Mary King's Close (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Summer (June–August) tours fill up fast—choose a morning slot. Halloween brings extra spookiness; daytime tours suit younger kids.
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Reviews of The Real Mary King's Close (Edinburgh)
Johanna Brown
Super cool tour of a very well preserved piece of Edinburg history! Our tour guide Jade was excellent. Very informative and funny. You can't take pictures during the tour, but they do take a souvenir picture if you want one. I loved it!
Shaun
We visited last week as a group of 10 on a visit to Edinburgh and it is was fantastic (once you catch your breath from climbing the hill to get to it!). We had time to use the bathroom and gift shop before we entered. Entry was on time. I'd say there were about 20 people in our tour with Becca(?) as our guide. Bloody brilliant. Humourous. Lots of fun facts and really good story telling about old E...
S Brooks
My son and I visited last May, and I was a bit apprehensive do to the possibility of steep walking areas, but to my surprise it was just fine. The ladies upon entrance were perfect, and our guide was wonderful, telling about the tales of Edinburgh of long ago, unfortunately we didn't see any ghosts, and Dr. Death was interesting to sit with, and the end of the tour was special too. (Don't want to ...
Tristan Summerer
First we were sad not to be able to take pictures downstairs (upstairs and in the shop it's allowed) but you don't have any time to be honest. Everything was exciting and the told history about Edinburgh and those buildings was fascinating! Anthony was the best tour guide we could imagine! His voice was perfectly loud, clear and well understandable! He gave clear instructions and was always kind a...
Cody P
I had a lot of fun on this tour! I won’t spoil everything down there, but there’s definitely a lot to keep you entertained. Our guide was excellent and had a plethora of knowledge. No pictures are allowed, though you can buy an overpriced one at the end if you so choose. Wonderful gift shop too. We definitely picked up some Christmas gifts. Reservations are highly recommended as only so many peopl...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (2 x £21) | GBP 42 |
| Child tickets (2 x £15) | GBP 30 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 72 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Real Mary King's Close
- Book Early Online: Reserve your preferred time and secure lower rates by booking on the official site.
- Choose Morning Slots: Mornings are quieter, giving your family more space in the underground chambers.
- Store Gear at Gift Shop: Use the Burgh Courtroom gift shop area to leave larger bags before heading into the Close.
Map of The Real Mary King's Close
Address: 2 Warriston's Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1PG, UK
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About The Real Mary King's Close
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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