The Writers' Museum, Edinburgh
Explore Scotland’s literary heritage in a charming 17th-century house dedicated to Burns, Scott, and Stevenson on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Nestled in Lady Stair's Close off Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, The Writers' Museum celebrates the lives and works of Scotland's literary giants Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Housed in a charming 17th-century townhouse, the museum showcases rare manuscripts, personal belongings, and first editions, offering an intimate glimpse into Scotland's rich literary heritage. Free to enter, it is a cultural gem for literature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to The Writers' Museum
- Lawnmarket, Lady Stair's Cl, Edinburgh, EH1 2PA, GB
- +441315294901
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the morning for a quieter experience and to fully appreciate the exhibits at your own pace.
- Wear comfortable shoes due to the historic building’s uneven floors and narrow stairs.
- Donations are welcome to help maintain the museum, though entry is free.
- Look for the engraved quotes on the paving stones outside in Makars’ Court, a literary monument nearby.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Several Lothian bus routes stop near the Royal Mile, including stops on George IV Bridge and Princes Street, approximately a 5-10 minute walk from the museum. Tickets cost around £1.80 to £2.50 depending on distance and can be purchased on board or via mobile apps.
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Train
Edinburgh Waverley Station is a 10-15 minute walk from The Writers’ Museum. The station is well connected to regional and national rail services. Walking routes are mostly flat but include cobbled streets, so comfortable shoes are advisable.
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Walking
The museum is located just off the Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town, easily accessible on foot from Edinburgh Castle or city center hotels. The terrain includes historic cobblestones and some uneven surfaces; mobility considerations should be noted.
The Writers' Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Writers' Museum
Historic Home of Scotland’s Literary Legends
The Writers' Museum is located in Lady Stair’s House, a beautifully preserved 17th-century townhouse built in 1622. This atmospheric building, named after Elizabeth, Dowager Countess of Stair, was restored in the late 19th century and transformed into a museum in 1959. The house itself exudes historic charm, with uneven floors and a narrow, creaky staircase originally designed as an anti-burglar device. Visitors step back in time as they explore the intimate rooms that once belonged to Edinburgh’s literary heritage.Celebrating Three Iconic Scottish Writers
The museum is devoted to Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson—three towering figures in Scottish literature. Their lives and works are brought to life through a rich collection of manuscripts, portraits, and personal artifacts. Highlights include Burns’ original writing desk and personal letters, Scott’s first editions and the Ballantyne printing press that produced his Waverley novels, and Stevenson’s wardrobe, riding boots, fishing rod, and a ring inscribed with ‘Tusitala’—meaning ‘teller of tales’—given by a Samoan chief.Immersive Literary Artifacts and Exhibits
Beyond the manuscripts and books, the museum offers unique personal items that deepen the connection to these writers. Among the most striking is a plaster cast of Robert Burns’ skull, one of only three ever made. Visitors can also see the rocking horse used by Scott as a child and Stevenson's smoking pipe. The exhibits are displayed in glass cases throughout the cozy rooms, creating an intimate and contemplative atmosphere that invites visitors to appreciate Scotland’s literary legacy.Makars’ Court: Scotland’s Literary Monument
Just outside the museum lies Makars’ Court, an open-air literary monument featuring flagstones engraved with names, dates, and quotes from Scottish writers spanning from the 14th century to the present day. This evolving tribute complements the museum’s focus and offers a peaceful outdoor space to reflect on Scotland’s rich storytelling tradition.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The Writers’ Museum is free to enter and typically open daily from 10am to 5pm, with last entry at 4:30pm. While the historic building’s narrow, uneven stairs limit accessibility for those with mobility challenges, the museum remains a must-visit for literature enthusiasts. Visitors generally spend 30 to 45 minutes exploring the exhibits. Comfortable footwear is recommended due to the building’s age and layout.Location and Surroundings
Situated just off the Lawnmarket on the Royal Mile, the museum is a short walk from Edinburgh Castle and close to other historic attractions such as Gladstone’s Land and the Scotch Whisky Experience. The surrounding Old Town area is rich with history and atmosphere, making a visit to The Writers’ Museum a perfect complement to exploring Edinburgh’s cultural heart.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lady Stair's Close
0.0 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.1 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
David Hume Statue
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.2 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Mercat Cross
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Adam Smith Statue
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
The Edinburgh Dungeon
0.2 km
Dive into the dark and thrilling history of Scotland at The Edinburgh Dungeon, where spooky tales and immersive experiences await every visitor.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover the untold stories of Edinburgh's rich history and vibrant culture at Uncovered Edinburgh, a must-visit tourist attraction in Scotland's capital.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
George IV Bridge
0.3 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.3 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Barrie's Close
0.3 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Cockburn St
0.3 km
Explore Cockburn Street, a vibrant and historic thoroughfare in Edinburgh, where culture meets charm in the heart of Scotland's capital.
The High Street Wellhead
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lady Stair's House
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A serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh’s Old Town, home to the Writers’ Museum and a rich literary heritage.
Whiski Rooms
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Discover Edinburgh’s award-winning whisky bar and restaurant offering over 300 whiskies, fresh Scottish cuisine, and daily tastings in a cosy historic setting.
Gladstone's Land
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Step into 17th-century Edinburgh at Gladstone's Land, a towering tenement rich with history, art, and stories from the Royal Mile.
The Jolly Judge
0.0 km
Discover the charm of The Jolly Judge, a cozy pub in Edinburgh offering local ales, traditional Scottish dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lawnmarket
0.1 km
Stroll the cobbled Lawnmarket, where Edinburgh’s Royal Mile meets centuries of linen traders, philosophers, and hidden closes in the shadow of the Castle.
House of Scotland
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and crafts at House of Scotland, a vibrant gift shop nestled on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.1 km
Experience the history and charm of Edinburgh at Deacon Brodie's Tavern, a traditional pub offering local ales and hearty Scottish cuisine.
Scottish Experience
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and magical Harry Potter memorabilia in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Lawnmarket.
Museum on the Mound
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic banking history and the fascinating evolution of money in a free, interactive museum atop The Mound.
Milne's Court
0.1 km
Discover Milne's Court, Edinburgh’s pioneering open courtyard from 1692, nestled on the historic Royal Mile near the Castle.
Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle's Court
0.1 km
Historic 16th-century merchant’s tenement transformed by Patrick Geddes into a vibrant learning and cultural centre in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
John Knox Monument
0.1 km
A powerful tribute in Edinburgh to John Knox, the fearless leader of Scotland’s Reformation and founder of Presbyterianism.
Assembly Hall
0.1 km
Historic Assembly Hall in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a stunning venue blending ecclesiastical heritage with vibrant festival culture.
Victoria St
0.1 km
Discover Victoria Street, Edinburgh’s colorful, curved historic street famed for its magical charm, boutique shops, and captivating atmosphere.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
0.1 km
Artisan cheese haven on Edinburgh’s historic Victoria Street, offering expertly matured farmhouse cheeses and personalized service for over 30 years.
Essential places to dine
Makars Mash Bar
0.0 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Howies Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Ondine Restaurant
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Maison Bleue
0.1 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
The Devil's Advocate
0.1 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.2 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.2 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Amber Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Ecco Vino
0.2 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Under The Stairs
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
The Cellar Door
0.3 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Beehive Inn
0.3 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.3 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Heritage of Scotland
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Olde Edinburgh
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Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
I Love Scotland
0.0 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
The Court Curio Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.1 km
Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.2 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Fringe Shop
0.3 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Eden
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.3 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Great Scot
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.4 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bow Bar
0.1 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Oz Bar
0.3 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Three Sisters
0.3 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Frankenstein
0.3 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
Copper Still
0.3 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.3 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.3 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Whistlebinkies
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.4 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Ballie Ballerson
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.5 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
