Known for its illustrious literary past, Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a haven for lovers of literature. The birthplace of iconic writers such as Sir Walter Scott and Arthur Conan Doyle, Edinburgh rightly earned its title as the first-ever UNESCO City of Literature in 2004.
As you stroll through the city’s streets, you can revel in its endless literary treasures, from the towering Scott Monument to Greyfriars Kirk, where J.K. Rowling found inspiration for several characters in Harry Potter. The city’s vibrant literary scene features festivals, bookshops, and libraries, including the National Library of Scotland. From storytelling events to literary-themed pub crawls, Edinburgh invites you to immerse yourself in its unique literary heritage.
Here, we discuss the historical landmarks in Edinburgh that offer invaluable insights into the life and times of our favourite writers. From a café that was once J. K Rowling’s writing spot to a museum dedicated to the lives of three iconic authors, here’s a look at some must-visit literary sites that are an ode to these legendary authors.
1. The Scott Monument
Only a short 30-minute drive from Edinburgh Airport, the Scott Monument is one of the most iconic sites in Edinburgh. Erected in Princes Street Gardens, it’s dedicated to the renowned Scottish author Sir Walter Scott.
The 60-metre-tall gothic monument offers multiple viewing galleries accessible via narrow stairways. The Museum Room on the first floor offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the great author. Here, you can find a memorial built in his honour and can listen to extracts from his writings at designated sound points.
2. The Elephant House
For Harry Potter fans who wonder where the magic began, here lies the answer. Drive your car rental in Edinburgh to this gourmet tea and coffee house and restaurant. Known to be the place where J.K. Rowling penned Harry Potter, the Elephant House has grown to become a popular spot for other writers as well.
Apart from Hogwarts’ maker, Ian Rankin and Alexander McCall-Smith are some other renowned authors known to frequent this gem.
3. Scottish Poetry Library
The next place to drive your car hire in Edinburgh is this library that came into existence in 1984. An award-winning building, this literary attraction houses a sprawling library with a state-of-the-art design.
Housing a superb collection of over 45,000 items in English and Gaelic, it is the only poetry house to have an extensive lending library at its core. It also supports multiple reading groups and various public libraries to help promote poetry.
4. The Writer’s Museum
Next, take your car hire in Edinburgh to the museum that celebrates the contributions of three literary giants: Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Sir Walter Scott.
Here, you will find rare works, first additions, and personal possessions such as Burn’s writing desk, Scott’s childhood rocking horse, and Stevenson’s riding boots. Home to over 220,000 items related to cultural and historical life in the city, its collection is one of the 51 recognised as nationally significant under Scotland’s Recognition Scheme.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to learning about iconic Scottish authors, there is no better place than Edinburgh. Soak in the creative fabric of this city with the convenience of a rental car. Whether you want to marvel at architectural feats or stop to admire the sprawling meadows on the outskirts, you can do it all with a car hire in Edinburgh.
Choose Dollar Car Rental at Edinburgh Airport for a seamless journey in the city. Visit the website to learn more about Dollar Car Rental in Edinburgh.
