Medical History Tour


Join The Real Mary King’s Close for a special tour that explores Edinburgh’s rich medical history.

A tall figure wearing a mask with a pointed nose standing in a dimly lit room.
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Royal Mile

15th February - 29th March
Adult: £27.00; Child (5 to 15 years): £22.00 per person

Venue Key Features

Wifi

Venue Accessibility

Accessible toilets

This unique 1 hour guided tour takes you on a compelling journey down the only preserved 17th century street in Edinburgh, The Real Mary King’s Close. Walk in the footsteps of the city’s past residents and explore the unique evolution of medical practices pioneered in Scotland’s capital city.

Delve deeper into the darkest days of Edinburgh’s history, the plague outbreak of 1645, and discover how the city confronted this devastating epidemic. Explore the evolution of midwives, known as Howdies – women who were lacking in formal medical education, but depended on ancestral knowledge handed down through generations, and uncover how mental health was treated in the 17th century.

Group of 4 people in 17th century clothing. The women in the foreground is holding a baby.

This unique tour promises to educate, inspire and encourage the next generation of innovators in science and medicine.

Please note, due to the historic nature of the site, the tour is not accessible to wheelchair users.

Further information and booking details can be found on Medical History Tour.