This December, Edinburgh’s top tourist attraction, The Real Mary King’s Close, invites visitors to enjoy a brand-new immersive experience and travel back in time to the 19th century, uncovering how fascinating Victorian traditions shaped the way we celebrate Christmas today.
Running four times daily each Sunday in December, the exclusive new experience invites small groups to journey back in time to meet the residents of The Close and learn about the history of Christmas, including the law that effectively banned Christmas celebrations in Scotland for nearly 400 years.
Amid a widespread crisis within the Catholic Church and the spread of the Protestant Reformation across Europe, the Kirk in Scotland grew increasingly wary of anything associated with Roman Catholic practices.
This ultimately led the Scottish Parliament to enact a law in 1640 that outlawed the celebration of “Yule vacations.”
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After embarking on the one-hour standard guided tour, guests will make their way to an atmospheric underground vaulted room for an exclusive 30-minute interactive experience where they’ll meet a special member of the Chesney family, one of the last residents of Mary King’s Close.
Visitors will enjoy listening to tales of the festive season, uncovering the rise of beloved customs that live on today, whilst enjoying a Victorian craft activity and indulging in warm tea and freshly baked scones.
Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said: “Christmas as we know it today was once forbidden in Scotland, with celebrations banned for nearly 400 years and harsh punishments in place due to religious laws.
“We’re delighted to bring this unique tour to life for our guests and highlight how Victorian traditions eventually revived Christmas here in Scotland, and within the city.
“After being named the UK’s best tourist attraction earlier in the year in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, we’re delighted to continue offering experiences that shine a light on Edinburgh’s remarkable history with locals and visitors alike.”
The Real Mary King’s Close stands as an important part of Edinburgh’s history. It teaches future generations about the incredible struggles people faced during the plague, the extreme living conditions, and the punishing impact of social hierarchy.
The exclusive 1.5hr Victorian Christmas experience will be running every Sunday in December, with four tours running each day at 12.00, 13.30, 15.00 and 16.30. Prices are £32.50 per adult and £25 per child (5-15 years old).
For more information and bookings please visit: https://bookings.realmarykingsclose.com/book/a-victorian-christmas-experience/263
