Edinburgh

A Book Lover’s Guide to Edinburgh

More than a day by car, from National Library of Scotland to Late Night Book Shopping.

Written by Shawna Law

“Edinburgh, Scotland's history is in her every grey stone, with her grave and kindly people, and her heritage of lore and learning.” - E. Sillar

Edinburgh has been a source of boundless inspiration for many writers and poets over the years. In fact, its contributions to the world of literature are so rich and well-recognised that in 2004, Edinburgh became the world's first UNESCO City of Literature. It also hosts the largest public celebration of words in the world – the much-loved annual Edinburgh International Book Festival.

To help you get better acquainted with Edinburgh’s literary landscape, we've put together a two-day itinerary that will take you on a journey through Edinburgh’s streets and point out brilliant independent bookshops and libraries as well as literary landmarks and lesser-known corners.

Pick your dates, and who is coming, and every stop will say whether it is open that day, and what it is like with children, a dog or a wheelchair.

How: More than a day by car
Distance: About 25 miles
Starts: National Library of Scotland
Ends: Late Night Book Shopping
Good for: Food and drink, Walks, History, Gardens, A rainy day

Book before you go

0 of 1 booked

Accommodation nearby
If you are staying over: here are ours nearest where the day starts and ends.
Close byOld Town ChambersA place to stay Close byMoment George IV BridgeSleeps 2 A mile awayWest End MuseSleeps 4 A mile awayThe Scott HotelA hotel

The day

Day 1
National Library of Scotland
An attraction
Let’s begin our day at the National Library of Scotland, Scotland’s largest library, which is home to over 14 million printed items. As well as its role as a library, there’s also a café, gift shop, evolving exhibition space and a permanent exhibition titled “Treasures of the National Library of Scotland”. The library’s fascinating permanent exhibition showcases Scotland's collective memory. A few items which are currently on display include a hand-written love letter by Scotland's Bard Robert Burns to Mrs Agnes Maclehose which includes his heartfelt song of parting, 'Ae fond kiss', which is now one of his most well-known love songs; Scotland's first printed books; and Harry Potter in translation, an impressive collection of Harry Potter books translated into various languages.
More about National Library of Scotland
The rest of these 2 days is for members.
17 more stops, what to do at each, and the drive between them. Members read every one of our days, and the magazine.
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Deacon's House Cafe
A café
Writers' Museum
An attraction
The Scottish Storytelling Centre
An attraction
Bakehouse Close
An attraction
3pm
Greyfriars Kirk
An attraction
4pm
In the Steps of Miss Jean Brodie
Armchair Books
A shop
A Tipple and a Good Book
An attraction
7pm
An Adventurous Dinner
Food and drink
Day 2
9am
Papii
An attraction
10am
Morning Walk Through Princes Street Gardens
Note
An attraction
12pm
Cumberland Bar
Food and drink
2pm
Golden Hare Books
An attraction
4pm
A Pint at Inspector Rebus’ Local
An attraction
6pm
The Abbotsford
8pm
Late Night Book Shopping
A shop