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Entering makars' court

Time capsule - 1 day itinerary


Edinburgh’s ancient skyline, cobbled streets and narrow wynds give you a sense of its magical history, but they only scratch the surface! Look further and you’ll find we have a wealth of hidden artefacts, paintings, stories and exhibitions, dating from the 16th century to the present day, which take you on a stunning historical adventure through the centuries.


Are you keen to travel through time and explore 4 centuries of Edinburgh life in a day? We thought you might be, so we’ve created a handy itinerary to guide you on your epic journey…

Morning


Museum of Edinburgh (free entry) – 16th and 17th centuries


Open 10am to 5pm every day


Let’s start this trip in the maze-like interior of Huntly House, the 16th century building which now houses the wonderful Museum of Edinburgh. With gun barrels from before 1570 as well as a helmet and sword from the 17th century you’ll feel like you’ve instantly travelled back to the time when Edinburgh was a dirty, violent place, concerned largely with fighting battles and defending land.


Among other fascinating items you’ll find the National Covenant from the 17th Century – the signing of which has been called ‘The biggest event in Scottish history’ and eventually led to civil war. Keep an eye out for the signatures on the document, which represent all the movers and shakers of 17th century Scotland. Altogether, the museum is packed full of interesting artefacts, which you can spend time exploring. On your way out, why not have a wander into Bakehouse Close, right next to the museum. It dates back to 1570 and was used as a location in the Outlander TV series!



The People’s Story Museum (free entry) – 18th century


Open 10am to 5pm every day


You’ve spent the morning exploring the vast array of artefacts relating to the formation of this stunning city, but now let’s learn about the city’s varied people. Housed in the Canongate Tollbooth, a Royal Mile landmark built in 1591, the People’s Story Museum explores the lives of Edinburgh’s people from the late 18th century to the present day.


Highlights include political and trade union banners, tools from traditional Edinburgh trades, guild documents, and objects relating to crime and punishment. Keep an eye out for the Law-and-Order case, which contains original chains from the 18th century tollbooth which served as the burgh’s main jail. Also on display are the mannequins representing the Ross family, and the residents of the dark, squalid, overcrowded Edinburgh Old Town of the 18th century.




Afternoon

 

National Monument of Scotland (free) – 19th century


Open access


After a morning in the Old Town, we're now travelling to the 19th century and Calton Hill. One of Edinburgh’s most popular look-out spots for fantastic panoramic views of the city, the National Monument of Scotland stands proudly on top. Incomplete for over 200 years, it was designed as a memorial to the Scottish soldiers and sailors who died during the Napoleonic wars, and was inspired by the Parthenon of Athens. Unfortunately, the architects were unable to raise the funds to complete the build so it was never completed – and is now nicknamed ‘Edinburgh’s Disgrace’.


Nelson Monument – 19th century


Open 10am to 3.30pm every day


£7.50 | £6.50 concession / child

£23 family ticket


Sticking with the 19th century, it’s a very short walk to the Nelson Monument, also on Calton Hill. This upturned telescope was designed by the architect Robert Burn (not to be confused with the poet, Robert Burns). In 1852, a large time ball was introduced, which is lowered as the one o'clock gun is fired from Edinburgh castle each day. Climb to the top of the monument for incredible 360-degree views of the city and surrounding area, and pop into the fascinating exhibition which reveals the history of astronomy on Calton Hill, as well as the importance of the Time Ball for navigation at sea.