Venturing below the Royal Mile… if you dare!
It’s spooky credentials are world renowned. Cast within the shadow of Arthur’s Seat, the city of Edinburgh contains its fair share of sinister history – and ghostly stories of intrigue. The city holds a special fascination for followers of the paranormal.
And with good reason, it’s often seen as the city which inspired Dr Jekyll and Hyde, it’s a place where the notorious Burke and Hare carried out their grisly killings and it’s the home of the Mackenzie Poltergeist.
Well, one of the TripAdvisor’s top rated attractions is offering you the chance to explore the lives and deaths of Edinburgh’s former residents in the city’s shadowy Old Town.
The tours are taking place this month and are being organised by The Real Mary King’s Close. The team is hosting two immersive experiences, Lantern Led Tours and True Crime Tours.
If you’re brave enough to go below the Royal Mile after dark then you’ll see the harsh realities of life in the closes.
On the True Crime Tour, you’ll see the real offences and the social pressures that shaped the lives of Edinburgh’s residents, from eviction and addiction to the chilling rise of the witch trials.
You’ll gain an insight into the legal system, or lack thereof, that governed the lives of those living on the Close.
Meanwhile, the Lantern Led Tours immerse visitors in near-total darkness, guided only by a flickering lantern and the stories of the people who once lived in the Close. And that includes an infamous 17th-century character who struck terror into the hearts of locals.
‘It allows us to bring together immersive history and exceptional food’
‘Halloween is one of our busiest times of year, and we’re delighted to be bringing back the ever-popular Lantern Led and True Crime Tours for 2025,’ says Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close.
‘This year, we’re particularly excited to partner with Amber Restaurant, allowing visitors to continue their evening just steps away with exceptional Scottish food and drink.’
‘There’s so much to enjoy right on our doorstep on the Royal Mile, and it’s fantastic to work with Amber to create an experience we hope our guests will love.’
So, what better way to ensure your fortitude remains in good stead after a visit to the underworld colossus of Edinburgh by indulging yourself in A Spirited Evening at the Amber Restaurant, just steps from the Royal Mile.
The optional add-on is available until 31st October and features a seven-dish tasting menu served across three courses, with dessert paired with a specially selected dram and finished with tea or coffee.
Highlights of the menu include a Blue Murder cheese and roast beetroot tart, seared saddle of venison with pumpkin puree, and an apricot and ginger pudding with toffee sauce. Organisers say booking is advised as spaces are limited and expected to sell out quickly.
‘Partnering with The Real Mary King’s Close this Halloween is a fantastic opportunity,’ says Wendy Neave, Head of Events at Amber Restaurant.
‘It allows us to bring together immersive history and exceptional food, and we can’t wait to welcome guests for a memorable evening in the heart of Edinburgh.’
