Download

Edinburgh

Europe

United Kingdom

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, The Writers' Museum is a hidden gem that celebrates the lives and works of Scotland's literary giants: Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, and Robert Louis Stevenson. This charming museum, located on Lawnmarket in Lady Stair's Close, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the rich tapestry of Scottish literature. As you wander through its narrow halls, you'll encounter a collection of manuscripts, personal artifacts, and intriguing exhibits that bring the stories of these authors to life.

While The Writers' Museum does not offer dining options on-site, the surrounding area is brimming with delightful cafés and restaurants where you can indulge in traditional Scottish fare. Just a short stroll away, you'll find the perfect spots to enjoy a hearty bowl of Cullen skink or a plate of haggis, neeps, and tatties. Pair your meal with a glass of fine Scotch whisky to truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

One of the museum's standout features is the stunning collection of personal items belonging to the authors. From Scott's own slippers to Burns' handwritten manuscripts, each piece tells a story that connects visitors to the literary heritage of Scotland. A particularly fascinating exhibit is the closet allegedly crafted by Deacon Brodie, which adds a layer of intrigue for those familiar with the tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

It is renowned for showcasing the lives and works of Scotland's literary legends, including Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, and Robert Louis Stevenson.

Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to help maintain the museum.

The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.

Whether you're a literature enthusiast or simply curious about Scotland's rich cultural history, The Writers' Museum is a must-visit destination. Immerse yourself in the world of literary legends, explore their personal artifacts, and take a moment to appreciate the beauty of Lady Stair's Close. Plan your visit today and discover the stories that shaped Scottish literature.

Manuscripts and personal effects of Burns, Scott and Stevenson, exhibited in a 17th-century house.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfdW9lVFdnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJf5Aro5rHh0gRQ5MZueOqnW0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfdW9lVFdnEAE

This is a wonderful wee place for a wander around. Lots of wyndy stairs. Very interesting with a lot of historical items related to some of our most famous writers. There's a little gift shop too. Free to get in, but there's a donation box for a small donation if you want to.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYX2JDNXp3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJf5Aro5rHh0gRQ5MZueOqnW0/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYX2JDNXp3RRAB

Great exhibition of the famous writers. Couldn’t believe it was for free since you can find so many interesting things and personal items of great writers such as Walter Scott himself. Although the place is not that big and while going the stairs up and down might be a challenge when meeting other visitors on the way it’s still very important part of Scottish culture and therefore must see for everyone who wants to get to know it

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMmRfYnF3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJf5Aro5rHh0gRQ5MZueOqnW0/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMmRfYnF3RRAB

A great, free place to find out absolutely anything about Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns and Robert Louis Stevenson. The Writers' Museum is situated next to the Royal Mile in Lady Stair’s Close and next to Makars’ Court, another great literary place to visit. This museum is rather small for the fact that it’s housing personal items, manuscripts and books of the three most famous Scottish writers, but it definitely has a great, comfortable atmosphere. The info signs are very thorough and as a literature student I actually quite enjoyed the masses of information on them. I can imagine it's a bit much for your average visitor but I guess Scott's slippers and rocking horse balance it out again. In the part of the museum dedicated to Stevenson there's a closet allegedly made by Deacon Brodie (and anyone who knows about the relation to Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde gets why I mention this) and I must say… when I first walked past it, I didn’t even realize it was part of the exhibition. That's is the main problem of this museum in my opinion: It's too small and a little bit chaotic. I know there's only so many possibilities to use the rooms in the very old, pretty small Mary Stair's house but I'm sure there would be a way to make the exhibition seem a bit more thought-through. 4,5/5

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMbDhudW5BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJf5Aro5rHh0gRQ5MZueOqnW0/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMbDhudW5BRRAB

Worth a visit. It’s a small museum but very articulately maintained. Many authors have been touched upon and their life incidents and stories have been preserved.

I loved the visit. Best time to go is 10 am when it opens.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQNXEyRGVnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJf5Aro5rHh0gRQ5MZueOqnW0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQNXEyRGVnEAE

Tucked in a quiet alley off the Royal mile. Surprised to find quite a few visitors.  Mostly about the Scottish writers that were held in fear of the hearts of the Scots.

Discover The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh's Historic Lawnmarket

Restroom

Payment Options

A treasure trove for literature lovers, The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh invites you to step into the world of Scotland’s most celebrated literary figures. Tucked away in a quaint corner off Lawnmarket, this enchanting establishment is housed in a striking late-16th-century building, its stone façade whispering tales of yore. Upon entry, visitors are greeted by an inspiring collection dedicated to the legacies of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Wander through elegantly curated exhibits showcasing personal artifacts, manuscripts, and portraits that illuminate the lives and works of these literary giants. Each room is a portal, transporting you deeper into the rich tapestry of Scottish literature. The awe-inspiring poetry of Burns, the riveting adventures of Stevenson, and the historical narratives of Scott lie intertwined within the narrative of this cozy museum. As you explore, don’t miss the tranquil courtyard hidden behind the museum, a serene spot perfect for reflection or simply basking in the ambiance of literary brilliance. The museum’s setting on Lady Stair's Close further enhances its allure, a narrow lane steeped in charm and history, inviting you to imagine the writers wandering these very cobblestones. Edinburgh itself, often hailed as the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, wraps the museum in a larger narrative of storytelling and culture that extends far beyond its walls. Visiting The Writers' Museum is not just an exploration of literary legends; it’s a journey through the heart and soul of Scotland’s profound love affair with the written word. With each step, the echoes of poetic verses and stirring prose linger in the air, urging you to uncover the literary treasures of this remarkable city.

The Writers' Museum

Phone Number

Address

Explore The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh, celebrating Scotland's literary legends. Immerse yourself in history and creativity—plan your visit today!

Discover The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh's Historic Lawnmarket

Dining & Culinary Delights.

Signature Highlights.

FAQs.

Visit Us Today.

The Devil's Advocate

The Dome

The Guildford Arms