Edinburgh, a UNESCO City of Literature, is a haven for writers, both aspiring and established. Whether you’re looking for a cosy corner to pen your next masterpiece or a peaceful escape to fuel your creativity, the city offers an array of inspiring spots. Here are some of the best places in Edinburgh to get inspired and start writing.
For many, coffee shops are the perfect setting to work in, and Edinburgh has no shortage of atmospheric spots. Black Medicine is a cosy favourite, with its warm atmosphere and the perfect brew to keep your mind sharp. If you’re after something with a bit more vibe, Thomas J Walls and Burr & Co both offer moody, artistic settings, ideal for those who like a bit of ambiance while writing.
If you’re more of an outdoor writer, Princes Street Gardens offers picturesque park benches where you can watch the world go by while you work. For a more tranquil escape, Dr. Neil’s Garden is a hidden gem. This peaceful space next to Duddingston Loch provides a serene setting surrounded by lush greenery.
Another scenic spot for inspiration is Salisbury Crags, with its breathtaking views of the city. Unlike the challenging climb of Arthur’s Seat, the walk up to Salisbury Crags is more leisurely, giving you a chance to relax and reflect before settling down to write. The combination of fresh air and sweeping vistas makes it an ideal spot to spark creativity.
Cemeteries might not be the first place that comes to mind for writing, but in Edinburgh, they have a unique charm. Greyfriars Kirkyard and St. Cuthbert’s Burial Ground are among the most atmospheric spots in the city. J.K. Rowling famously found inspiration in Greyfriars, with the gravestone of Thomas Riddell sparking the name for Tom Riddle in Harry Potter. The quiet, contemplative atmosphere of these ancient burial grounds, with their ivy-covered tombstones and serene paths, can lead to unexpected bursts of creativity.
For a more relaxed and unique environment, the Caley Picture House, one of the most stunning Wetherspoons in Edinburgh, provides the setting of an old cinema with plenty of charm. It’s perfect for those who want to get a bit of writing done while surrounded by the atmosphere of an old movie theatre. You can even take advantage of the Spoons coffee deals and refill your drinks as you get lost in your words. What could be better for a writer than unlimited hot bevvies?
Photo by Ross Sneddon on Unsplash
