Edinburgh visitor attraction launches biggest-ever recruitment drive

The Real Mary King's Close, one of Scotland's most popular visitor attractions, has launched its biggest-ever recruitment drive after its most successful year to date.

Located beneath the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, the attraction welcomed more than 290,000 guests in 2025.

In response to rising attendance, the site's operator Continuum Attractions is looking to recruit more than 40 new "storytellers" for the 2026 season.

Paul Nixon, general manager at the Real Mary King’s Close, said: “Following a record-breaking year for the attraction, we’re excited to continue the expansion of our team.

"Our storytellers are at the heart of what makes the Close such a memorable experience, bringing the history of 17th-century Edinburgh vividly to life for guests from around the world.

“In order to meet the continued demand for our immersive experience beneath one of the nation’s most famous streets, we’re looking for creative individuals who are passionate about delivering unforgettable guest experiences in a truly unique environment."

New roles due to rising attendance

The seasonal roles will run from March until October, and combine storytelling and character performance with retail and customer experience.

The positions are ideal for performers, students, graduates and local people with an interest in history of theatre.

No previous acting experience is required, with full training provided to successful applicants.

Calum Philip, a trained actor who started working at the attraction in March 2025, said: "I’ve never worked in a more supportive environment.

"Not only are all my colleagues such lovely people, but the managers genuinely care about our wellbeing and do everything they can to make our work enjoyable."

Mehdi Bel Abbes, another storyteller at the attraction, said: "The best thing about working at the Real Mary King's Close is the people. I look forward to seeing them every single shift."

In 2024, the Real Mary King’s Close was named the UK’s number one visitor attraction by TripAdvisor. Since opening in 2003, it has welcomed more than 3.2 million guests.

Images courtesy of Continuum Attractions