Scotland's Yuletide Past

This December, visitors to Edinburgh can step beneath the Royal Mile and uncover a darker side to Christmas with Scotland’s Yuletide Past tours at The Real Mary King’s Close.

The tours, which return to Edinburgh this year, will take place in The Real Mary King’s Close, an underground historic close located under the Royal Mile.

Scotland’s Yuletide Past will run nightly from 18th to 22nd of December. Group rates are available.

Scotland’s Yuletide Past

Visitors will be able to join a Victorian tour guide and travel back in time, through the narrow closes and delve into winter traditions. 

From the myths of festive fairies and spirits, to how Christmas celebrations evolved into the cherished traditions of today, the tour offers a unique insight into how Scots marked the festive time of year.

Tickets include a pre-tour mulled wine and mince pie in the seasonally dressed Mary King’s Coffee House.

From dazzling lights to traditional markets, Christmas can be found around every corner of the city of Edinburgh, as the streets sparkle with excitement and cheer. However, this wasn’t always the case, and groups can learn more about this on a tour experience.

The Real Mary King’s Close will be open throughout the Christmas period, closing only on Christmas Day.

The Real Mary King’s Close

The Real Mary King’s Close is a set of hidden streets that are underneath the existing streets of Edinburgh. 

There is much myth as to how these street became hidden, such as plague victims being bricked up and left to die, along with more tragic tales. On a tour you will discover the truth.

For more information, visit www.realmarykingsclose.com, group organisers should contact groups@continuumattractions.com