Writers’ Museum Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the vibrant and age old capital of Scotland blends an exciting mix of historic buildings with a contemporary ambiance. But it is the old section off the Royal Mile that truly defines the flavor of Old Scotland. One of the most interesting places to explore is the Writers’ Museum Edinburgh housed in what was once a private home built in the mid 1600’s. Known as Lady Stair’s house the stone covered walls of the multi story building are situated on a cobblestone courtyard off the Stair’s Close (close defines Edinburgh’s quaint little alleyways).

The Writers' Museum located in Lady Stair's House, Edinburgh

[image credit: buhny]

The Writers’ Museum Honours The Many Authors Who Have Been At Home in Edinburgh

Three famous writers of Scotland are honored in this small museum that displays memorabilia and historical information about their lives and works. One of the most famous countrymen, Robert Burns, stayed in a home opposite the Writers’ Museum Edinburgh during a visit to the city in 1786. Probably one of the most celebrated of Scotland’s writers, statues of Burns are scattered around the area.

Sir Walter Scott called Edinburgh home being born there in 1771. His colorful life included training as a lawyer and then as an author penning novels such as “Waverly”, “Rob Roy” and “Ivanhoe” among others. The museum displays portraits and artifacts from Scott’s life.

Another native son, Robert Louis Stevenson was born in Edinburgh in 1850. Best known for his books, “Treasure Island” and” Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”, his autobiographical essays and poetry including “A Child’s Garden of Verses” portray life in Scotland during his childhood. Some of Stevenson’s personal items are included in the displays of his works and life history.

The sign of the Writers' Museum in Edinburgh

The Writers’ Museum Edinburgh gives visitors a chance to not only learn a few facts about Scotland’s famous authors but an opportunity to walk through a period home. Wall displays and dozens of interesting personal items including pipes, chess sets and snuff boxes fill the small interior spaces. Early editions of the author’s books are fun to pore over and imagine them writing these masterpieces without the aid of computers. The museum is free to the public and often offers special exhibits featuring one of the writers.

[image credit: Peter Nijenhuis]