With streets steeped in stories and skyline silhouettes that could grace the cover of a gothic novel, for booklovers, Edinburgh is more than just picturesque – it’s bibliophilic bliss.
October 2024 marked the 20th anniversary of Edinburgh being designated the title of the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature. From renowned festivals that celebrate the written word to museums that explore the lives of Scotland’s most famous writers, the city offers a feast of fiction, facts and folklore that are just waiting to be devoured.
Whether you’re a history buff, a fantasy fan, or simply someone who finds comfort in the rustle of turning pages, Edinburgh has a story for you. Let’s leaf through its literary riches, chapter by chapter.
Chapter one: literary landmarks
Fans of Scottish literature won’t want to miss The Writers’ Museum, located just off the Royal Mile. This hidden gem houses artifacts from three of Scotland’s most celebrated authors: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. Explore portraits, rare books and personal items, including Burns’ writing desk, the printing press used for Scott’s Waverley novels, and mementos from Stevenson’s global travels. Next to the museum is Makars’ Court. A peaceful haven where Edinburgh’s literary greats are commemorated, it is paved with flagstones inscribed with quotes from famous Scottish writers.
Located further down the Royal Mile reveals more must-sees. Whether it’s an ancient Highland tale or a modern fable, The Scottish Storytelling Centre brings words to life through a year-round programme of storytelling, theatre, music, exhibitions, family events and workshops. While for fans of Robert Fergusson, one of Scotland’s lesser-known, yet profoundly influential poets, Canongate Kirk is worth a visit. His grave is located in the churchyard, while his statue is outside.
A towering tribute to Sir Walter Scott, the Scott Monument stands proudly in Princes Street Gardens. This striking Gothic structure, which is one of the largest monuments in the world dedicated to a writer, was erected in his honour in 1846. Climb to the top and you’ll be rewarded not only with panoramic views of the city, but also a deeper appreciation for the man who gave us Ivanhoe, Waverley and Rob Roy, and helped put Scottish fiction on the global map.
For a literary twist on Edinburgh’s darker side, a visit to Greyfriars Kirk is a must. This atmospheric graveyard is not only known for the heart-warming tale of Greyfriars Bobby but also holds a place in literary history. The gravestones here are said to have inspired names for characters in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, including Tom Riddle.
For more literary sights in the city explore our literature city guide.
Chapter two: tours that tell all
For those who prefer their narratives in motion, Edinburgh offers a variety of literary walking tours that bring that city’s bookish side to life. Weave your way through Edinburgh’s ancient streets with a knowledge guide for a glimpse into literary heritage.
Join the Edinburgh Book Lover’s Tour for a curated stroll through writers’ haunts and hidden histories or get a feel for the city through the beauty of poetry on Edinburgh Poetry Tours.
If you’re a Potterhead, don’t miss The Potter Trail. Led by a costumed guide, you’ll see the places where JK Rowling scribbled some of the books, as well as the magical locations that inspired Hogwart’s characters.
Find out more in literary tours in Edinburgh.
Chapter three: festivals to bookmark
Storytelling Festival
© Ludovic Farine
Throughout the year, Edinburgh hosts a variety of literary festivals for all kinds of book lovers.
Burns & Beyond (January) celebrates the life and legacy of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national bard with a programme of art and culture, while Cymera Festival (May) is Scotland’s festival for science fiction, fantasy and horror writing.
Every August, Edinburgh transforms into the ultimate destination for bookworms with the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Drawing renowned authors, poets and thinkers from across the globe, it offers a diverse range of events, including author readings, discussions, book signings and children’s sessions.
In Autumn, Edinburgh welcomes the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, the world’s largest celebration of storytelling and Pentlands Book Festival, with talks by authors, while music, talks, workshops, readings and poetry is represented at Push the Boat Out.
Chapter four: brilliant bookshops
From antiquarian to contemporary, fiction to fantasy, across the city are a spread of bookshops offering delight to readers of all kinds. Not only are they packed with books galore, but many also offer regular events such as author talks, book signings and children’s sessions.
Start at Armchair Books in the Grassmarket, a treasure trove of old tomes and literary surprises, or pop into Golden Hare in Stockbridge and treat yourself to the latest novel from your favourite author.
Find more literary shops worth the visit in Edinburgh’s best bookshops.
Chapter five: libraries worth the hush
With 28 locations across the city, Edinburgh’s libraries are not just places for storing books, but a vibrant centre for literary events, exhibitions and workshops.
The National Library of Scotland is home to millions of books, manuscripts and maps, and is a goldmine for researchers and casual readers alike. Explore the library’s extensive collections, which include rare Scottish works, historic documents, and an impressive archive of letters, journals and personal papers from celebrated authors. While just across the road, Edinburgh Central Library hosts a regular programme of events and workshops for all ages.
The Scottish Poetry Library is a one-of-a-kind national hub dedicated to the art of poetry, with a special focus on Scottish works. Alongside its vast collection of poetry books and pamphlets, it frequently hosts poetry readings and events. Equally unique is The Library of Mistakes, which is dedicated to the study of financial history.
Find out more about the history of Edinburgh’s libraries on Our Town Stories.
So, pack your pen, your imagination and perhaps a well-thumbed paperback, and get ready to turn the page on a city where literature lives and breathes.
This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
