Edinburgh: A Literary Paradise

‘Piled deep and massy, close and high; mine own romantic town.’ So wrote Sir Walter Scott of Edinburgh, the city of his birth, and the first in the world to be designated a UNESCO City of Literature in 2004. The Scottish capital and its literary heritage go together like the amicable Jekyll and Hyde, influenced by the architectural make-up of its Old and New Towns—both crafted by its legendary scribblers, including Robert Louis Stevenson.

Heritage and Landmarks

With a literary legacy spanning centuries and home to some of the most famous contemporary writers, Edinburgh offers a myriad of bookish experiences. The city’s train station is aptly named after Scott’s Waverley, often credited as the first historical novel. The birthplace of the Scottish Enlightenment, it also hosted the world’s first circulating library in 1726. Moreover, in 1768, the first edition of the Encyclopaedia Britannica was published here. Edinburgh’s literary stature is not only a matter of history but also its picturesque landscape that resembles a fairytale setting—an Old Town with winding streets, a castle perched on ancient volcanic rock, and a romantic skyline.

There are numerous ways to dive into Edinburgh’s literary scene, including traditional tours around the Royal Mile and a thriving spoken word community. A prominent landmark is the Scott Monument, one of the tallest tributes to a writer in the world. Standing over Princes Street Gardens, this Gothic structure pays homage to early 19th-century literature. Visitors can take a climb up the 287 steps for panoramic city views or simply admire this historic marvel. A short walk will lead you to the Writers’ Museum nestled in the heart of the Old Town. The museum celebrates the lives of three literary giants: Scott, Stevenson, and Robert Burns, showcasing artifacts such as Burns’ writing desk, Stevenson’s riding boots, and the press used for Scott’s Waverley novels.

Tours, Libraries, and Shops

Edinburgh is rich in literary tours, particularly along the Royal Mile. The Edinburgh Book Lovers Tour spans 500 years, highlighting writers’ birthplaces and inspirations, guided by local author Allan Foster. Meanwhile, the Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour explores significant pubs, and for fans of Ian Rankin, the Rebus Tours present an opportunity to delve into the world of Inspector Rebus novels. For those intrigued by Trainspotting, the Leith Walks tour dives into the area that inspired Irvine Welsh’s iconic story. Lastly, the original Potter Trail leads fans to the cafe where Rowling penned the first Harry Potter book, along with the cemetery that inspired the character of He Who Must Not Be Named.

Book lovers will find joy in visiting libraries, and the National Library of Scotland is a highlight. Located just off the Royal Mile, it is the largest library in the country and a significant research resource in Europe, housing over 24 million items, including maps and manuscripts. Among its treasures are the Gutenberg Bible and a letter from Charles Darwin. Additionally, the Scottish Poetry Library boasts a renowned collection of poetry in a serene atmosphere. Regular live poetry events attract fans of the spoken word, while the avant-garde collective known as Neu! Reekie! offers a refreshing mix of poetry, performance, and music.

Additionally, Edinburgh is dotted with antique and independent bookshops waiting to be explored. West Port is home to many, including the enchanting Armchair Books. In Stockbridge, Golden Hare Books features a carefully selected collection of fiction and poetry, along with a charming children’s section. For politically inclined readers, Lighthouse Bookshop specializes in left-wing literature, offering over 10,000 titles. Lastly, the award-winning Edinburgh Bookshop in Bruntsfield boasts an impressive selection and hosts engaging events for all ages.

Festival Fun

Not to be missed is Edinburgh’s annual international book festival, held every August. This event is part of the larger Edinburgh Festivals and transforms Charlotte Square into a vibrant tented village. Each year, over a thousand authors from various genres participate in numerous events. With pop-up bookshops, free live sessions, and the excitement of spotting literary stars, this festival represents a true haven for any book lover. Be sure to mark it on your calendar if you have even a slight interest in literature!