The Writers' Museum (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Writers' Museum?
What makes it 60% Kids-Friendly: Children 6-12 can join free story workshops and hunt for Burns’s desk or Scott’s rocking horse, yet steep spiral stairs, no toilets and tight rooms demand supervision and limit stay.
Positives:
- Free Admission: Entry is free with an optional donation.
- Compact Layout: Small rooms help keep children focused and avoid fatigue.
Challenges:
- Steep Staircases: Upper exhibits require navigating a narrow spiral staircase.
- No Onsite Toilets: There are no public toilets or baby-changing facilities inside.
What is The Writers' Museum?
- A 17th-century townhouse museum devoted to the manuscripts and personal effects of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson
- Home to original portraits, rare first editions and personal artifacts such as Burns’s writing desk and Stevenson’s riding boots
- Housed in Lady Stair’s House, a preserved historic building with period interiors and architectural details
What is so special about The Writers' Museum for with kids?
- Free interactive exhibits featuring original desks, boots and manuscripts.
- Hands-on family workshops with storytelling and writing games for ages 6+.
- Outdoor Makars’ Court trail adds a fun scavenger-hunt element.
- Compact space makes it easy to explore with young children.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for exhibits, a family workshop, Makars’ Court and a relaxed pace with kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Writers' Museum
Family Workshops:
Join free, hands-on sessions for ages 6+ with storytelling and simple writing games.
Tip: Book in advance during school holidays to secure spots.
Interactive Exhibits:
Spot Burns’s writing desk, Scott’s rocking horse and Stevenson’s riding boots.
Tip: Ask children to find their favorite object and share what they imagine it was used for.
Makars’ Court Quotes:
Read carved quotations from Scottish writers on the paving stones outside.
Tip: Turn it into a scavenger hunt by giving kids a list of words to find.
Handling Boxes:
Borrow replica objects and discovery trails from the City Art Centre.
Tip: Collect a trail sheet before you enter to keep children engaged indoors.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Writers' Museum
- Book Workshops Early: Reserve family workshop spots online before they fill up during holidays.
- Combine Nearby Museums: Visit the Museum of Childhood next door for more kid-friendly exhibits.
- Start with Makars’ Court: Let kids read carved quotes outdoors before heading inside.
Reviews of The Writers' Museum
Virginia Badioli
Very cured museum developed on different floors with narrow entry (it seems like a farytale). Free entry and not crowded. Many historical objects belonged to the writers and also installations. Quite interactive and moreover they provide you many infos! I surely recommend a quick visit there if you are planning to vist Edinburgh
Jermaine N
This place celebrates 3 if Edinburghs most famous writers. The staff were really knowledgeable about them so tap into their knowledge. There's tight spiral staircase so be warned. I woukd say its a must visit at least once.
Vendelaz
free museum! if you’re interested in old literature and its history i would definitely recommend going in and having a look!! very small and didn’t take long to go through, but i would say its worth it nonetheless.
Toosha Atta
The Writers’ Museum in Edinburgh is a hidden gem and an absolute must visit for anyone who loves literature or history. It beautifully celebrates Scotland’s great writers like Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson, with fascinating exhibits, personal items, and manuscripts that bring their stories to life. The building itself is charming and atmospheric, tucked away just off t...
Myla Nichols
A lovely little museum that's tucked away in the heart of Edinburgh. It doesn't take long to go through - roughly half an hour - despite having a fascinating array of information about some really interesting writers. Definitely work a visit!
When is the best time to visit The Writers' Museum (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
During summer holidays book family workshops early. In winter the museum is quieter and lets kids explore at their own pace.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Suggested donation | GBP 5 |
| Snacks & drinks at nearby café | GBP 10 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 15 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of The Writers' Museum
Address: Lawnmarket, Lady Stair's Cl, Edinburgh EH1 2PA, UK
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About The Writers' Museum
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 131 529 490110 BEST nearby Activities
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