MUSEUMS & HISTORIC BUILDINGS

There is a lot to be learned from a visit to the Royal Mile about the history of Scotland, its people, politics and daily lives, from ancient to modern times. Some of the places you can visit are:

Gladstone Land
This is a six storey example townhouse in the overcrowded Old Town of Edinburgh in the 17th century. The interior has been refurbished to illustrate a typical Scottish home of the period.

The Writers' Museum 
Scotland boasts a long literary history and has produced many famous writiers. This museum is dedicated to the lives and works of such authors as Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.

Museum of Childhood
This is a fascinating place for children and adults alike. The collection of dolls, puppets, games, puzzles and other toys from Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian times, highlights the differences between childhoods of the past and the amusements available to kids today.

John Knox House
John Knox was largely responsible for the establishment of the Protestant faith in Scotland. His house has been preserved, although his grave in the former cemetery behind St. Giles is now a car park!

The People's Story Museum
This museum presents the lives of ordinary citizens of Edinburgh from medieval times to the present day.

The Edinburgh Museum
(Formerly the Huntly Museum) - You can find information about the city of Edinburgh here, including what the Old Town of Edinburgh was like when it was surrounded by walls, as well as the blueprints for the New Town of Edinburgh.

Canongate Graveyard
This is the burial place of many famous Scots and has a view over the Royal High School, Burns Monument and Nelson Tower on Calton Hill.

Scottish Parliament at Holyrood
This controversial building houses the Scottish Parliament. Certain parts such as the debating chamber are open to visitors, but to see the rest, and learn about the political history of Scotland the guided tours available on weekdays are recommended.