Edinburgh ensures every visitor leaves with a story of their own.

The beautiful city built on layers of architecture, history and heritage offers something for every interest. As the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature since 2004, it wears its literary heritage with pride, celebrating its past while wholeheartedly nurturing contemporary voices. From historic landmarks to literary nooks, every corner of the city holds a tale waiting to be discovered.

If you are looking to experience the very best the city has to offer—quite literally—these spots deserve a place on your list

A Literary Tour of Edinburgh

Scott Monument: Towering over Princes Street Gardens, this 200-foot-high monument pays homage to Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most celebrated writers. You can even climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city.

The Writers’ Museum: Built on Makars’ Court off the Royal Mile, this museum showcases the lives and works of literary greats Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson, displaying rare books, portraits, and personal artefacts.

Greyfriars Kirkyard: A must-visit for Harry Potter fans, this historic cemetery is said to have inspired some of J.K. Rowling’s most famous characters, including Lord Voldemort (Tom Riddle if you dare) and Professor McGonagall.

The Royal Mile & City Chambers Courtyard: Stroll down Edinburgh’s most famous street and stop by the City Chambers courtyard to find the handprints of notable authors, including Sir Ian Rankin and Alexander McCall Smith.

The Scottish Poetry Library: A haven for poetry lovers, this unique institution promotes Scottish poetry and hosts regular poetry readings and events.

Princes Street & The Jean Brodie Steps: Fans of Muriel Spark’s The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie should visit the Vennel Steps in the Grassmarket, renamed in honour of the book’s iconic character.

Edinburgh Castle & The ‘Black Dinner’: Game of Thrones fans will appreciate the historical events at Edinburgh Castle, which are said to have inspired George R.R. Martin’s infamous ‘Red Wedding’ scene.

Pottermania & Beyond

For Harry Potter enthusiasts, Edinburgh is a treasure trove of magical locations:

• The Potter Trail: The ultimate guided tour for fans, taking visitors to J.K. Rowling’s favourite writing spots, the real-life inspirations behind Hogwarts characters, and other enchanting locations.
• The Elephant House: One of the cafés where Rowling penned the early drafts of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
• Victoria Street: Believed to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley, this charming street is lined with quirky shops and bookshops.

Outlander’s Trail through Scotland

Outlander fans will appreciate Edinburgh’s connection to Diana Gabaldon’s Jamie Fraser, with several filming locations and references to Scottish history featured in the series. The sweeping Highlands, centuries-old castles, and atmospheric closes of Edinburgh bring Jamie and Claire’s world to life, making it easy to blur the lines between fiction and history.

Edinburgh’s Royal Mile – Walk the historic cobbled streets where Claire and Jamie’s story continues even after they meet after two decades.

Bakehouse Close – Instantly recognizable as Jamie’s print shop in the series.

The Signet Library – Transformed into the Governor’s Mansion on screen

Palace of Holyroodhouse – A key location in both Outlander and real Scottish history, where Bonnie Prince Charlie once held court.

Culloden Battlefield (near Edinburgh) – A short journey from the city, this is where the Jacobite dream came to a heartbreaking end.

A Thriving Literary Scene

Edinburgh’s literary tradition isn’t just about its past—it continues to thrive today. The city boasts a wealth of bookshops, from large independents to hidden gems. In addition to bookshops, Little Free Libraries and pop-up literary installations can be found throughout the city, reflecting Edinburgh’s deep love for books.

The Edinburgh International Book Festival

Every August, Edinburgh hosts the world’s largest literary festival in Charlotte Square. Featuring authors, poets, and literary figures from across the globe, this festival is a bucket-list event for literature lovers.

Stay at The Roseate Edinburgh – A Perfect Literary Retreat

Located in West Coates, The Roseate Edinburgh is ideally positioned for all these literary explorations. Just a short distance from the Royal Mile and other key attractions, our beautiful boutique hotel in Edinburgh offers a luxurious haven to relax after a day of bookish adventures.

At the in-house Dunstane Restaurant & Bar we bring you the finest Scottish cuisine. Savour ethically sourced teas from China, India, and Japan with a delightful quintessentially Edinburgh Afternoon Tea experience, whether indoors or in the tranquil garden. Whisky lovers can explore an exceptional collection of rare and vintage Scottish whiskies while discussing the works of the literary giants you saw in the day.

When you are done exploring historic literary landmarks, discovering new bookshops, or a festival, The Roseate Edinburgh offers you a retreat brimming with elegance and comfort—a place as rich in character as the tales that have shaped Scotland’s capital.