Secrets of Real Mary King’s Close

Exploring History’s hidden depths with a wee touch of Mystery

"Ye cannae shove yer granny aff a bus." As they say… Treat your elders with respect - or just don’t shove them off buses!

Today’s email presented by

Mad about Scotland? Spread the cheer! Today’s newsletter celebrates the beauty, culture and spirit of Scotland, from its rugged landscapes and ancient castles to its rich traditions and flavors. Know someone who dreams of Scotland too? Spread the magic by forwarding this to a friend—they’ll love discovering a wee bit of Scotland in their inbox!

---

In today’s email

• Secrets of Real Mary King’s Close

• The Region That Gave Ireland their National Bard, Robert Burns

• Everything you need to know about visiting the the Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands

• Around the Web: Things to do on Burns Night in Edinburgh; A cottage on main road out of Edinburgh conceals a genuine mystery; Hidden Gems of Scotland: 7 Places You’ll Really Want to Visit and more…

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: One of Edinburgh Old Town’s finest hidden gems

• Scottish Food You Will Love: Visiting the World’s Whisky Capital

• Coo Wee: Edinburgh's HIDDEN Streets - The Real Mary King's Close

---

Secrets of Real Mary King’s Close

Beneath Edinburgh’s bustling streets lies Real Mary King’s Close, a preserved slice of 17th-century life steeped in mystery and history. Once a thriving neighbourhood, now shrouded in legend, its shadowy passageways tell tales of plague, politics, and everyday struggles. A guided tour through this underground labyrinth offers a fascinating glimpse into the hidden world of old Edinburgh—a must-see for history buffs and curious explorers alike…

Real Mary King’s Close alley at Old Town Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland - Shutterstock

The Region That Gave Ireland their National Bard, Robert Burns

From the rugged shores of the Isle of Arran to the historic sites and charming towns of mainland Ayrshire, this region beckons adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Culzean Castle, trace the footsteps of Robert Burns in Alloway, or feel the pulse of excitement at Ayr Racecourse…

Culzean Castle and Country Park - Love to Visit Scotland

---

Around The Web

Things to do on Burns Night in Edinburgh

In celebration of the birthday of Robert Burns, the national poet of Scotland, 25 January has become synonymous with all the things Burns loved about Scotland – good food, good company, good poetry and a wee dram of whisky…

A cottage on main road out of Edinburgh conceals a genuine mystery

This unassuming little cottage forms the entrance to Gilmerton Cove, a subterranean complex of passageways and chambers carved out of the sandstone bedrock on which this part of Gilmerton stands…

The Scottish Castle That Plays The Dramatic Backdrop To ‘The Traitors’

While The Traitors Scottish castle is not open to visitors, the show has resulted in growing numbers of visitors to Inverness by 25% since Season 2 came out. The castle is also officially more popular than Balmoral or Edinburgh Castle, so it’s safe say, The Traitors has had quite the hold on us.

Ghosts of Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is the most besieged castle in Britain, with 23 attacks throughout Scotland's history. The Scottish equivalent of the Tower of London, it houses the country's crown jewels, served as a prison and barracks, and protected the Royal…

Visit the vaults beneath Old Town

This vaults tour takes you beneath the streets of Edinburgh's Old Town into a dimly lit space that many considered to be haunted. Your 1-hour tour visits the vaults of the South Bridge that date back to the 1700s…

Hidden Gems of Scotland: 7 Places You’ll Really Want to Visit!

Whether you're captivated by ancient history, enchanted by natural beauty, or seeking moments of quiet reflection, these locations offer a perfect escape. As we say in Scotland, "Lang may yer lum reek"—may you enjoy these adventures for many years to come!

Carved face at Dunino Den, Scotland - Love to Visit Scotland

Top Experiences In Scotland Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

---

🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

---

From Social Media

One of Edinburgh Old Town’s finest hidden gems, The Writers' Museum!

Scottish Food You Will Love

Visiting the World’s Whisky Capital

Coo Wee

Edinburgh's HIDDEN Streets - The Real Mary King's Close

---

Thank you for reading Love Scotland— your support allows us to keep doing this work. If you enjoy Love Scotland, it would mean the world to us if you invited friends to and read with us. If you refer friends, you will receive benefits that give you special access to Love Scotland.