The Writers’ Museum is tucked away in the 17th century Lady Stair’s House, just off Lawnmarket, and is so much more than just another free museum in Edinburgh.
This small museum only takes about an hour to go through.
It is dedicated to Scotland’s most beloved writers and literary figures, specifically Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Inside you will a wealth of treasures about the writers’ lives as well as odd assortments such as Scott’s childhood rocking chair, Burns’ writing desk, and Stevenson’s riding boots.
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The Collection and What to See
The museum is dedicated to three of Scotland’s most celebrated literary figures – Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns and Robert Louis Stevenson. Inside you will find manuscripts, portraits, personal belongings and curiosities linked to each writer, from Burns’s writing desk to Stevenson’s riding boots.
Location and Visiting
It is tucked into the 17th-century Lady Stair’s House, just off the Lawnmarket in a close near the top of the Royal Mile. The courtyard outside, Makars’ Court, is paved with quotations from Scottish writers and is worth a look on the way in.
Who It Suits
A must for book lovers and anyone interested in Scottish literature, and short enough at around an hour to fit into a busy day. Fans of historic interiors will also enjoy the atmospheric old house that holds the collection.
Practical Tips
- Free entry, no booking needed
- Look for Makars’ Court and its engraved quotations outside
- Tucked down a close off the Lawnmarket – easy to walk past
- Takes about an hour to explore
- Great pairing with other Old Town museums nearby
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Writers’ Museum free?
Yes, entry is free with no booking required. It sits in Lady Stair’s House, just off the Lawnmarket near the top of the Royal Mile.
Which writers does it cover?
It focuses on Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns and Robert Louis Stevenson, displaying manuscripts, portraits and personal belongings of each.
