Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Join the intrepid duo, Clart (as in muck!) and our clean-hankied intellectual Mcbrain, who will lead you on a brilliant and witty dramatic romp through the wynds, courtyards and pubs of Edinburgh's Old and New Town. A Hilarious duel of wits across three hundred years of great writing and colourful characters.
The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour incorporates a dramatic script performed by two professional actors, not tour guides reading from books. The tour reaches beyond the well-known figures of Burns, Scott and Stevenson and includes some of the most colourful, literary characters who have added humour and wit throughout the ages to the unique tavern life of The Old and The New Town.
This award winning Tour was the first literary tour launched in Edinburgh in 1996! It has since carried more than 500,000 satisfied customers on a dramatic literary trail across Edinburgh. It's regarded by many as a pioneer, and a "Must-see" cultural attraction in guide books throughout the world.
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
By professional actors
Alcoholic Beverages
Edinburgh Old Town
The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour is is a brilliant and witty dramatic romp through the wynds, courtyards and pubs of Edinburgh's Old and new Town.
literary pub tour
Duration: 2 hours
454 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Lakshmi I,
Jul 8, 2025
- Viator
We booked this experience on the evening we arrived in Edinburgh. We thoroughly enjoyed learning about Scottish authors and poets while strolling through different pubs that were very interesting. David and Dougal were amazing guides and actors. They made it so much fun. Amazing to hear the poems they recited and played different roles. Surely, recommend it. Bring an umbrella or a little rain jacket in case it starts raining.
Deborah S,
Jul 8, 2025
- Viator
Fantastic! Please clone Mike and Hazel. The historical presentation by both were great. The energy between these two actors was special.
Dale T,
Jun 6, 2025
- Viator
The wife and I enjoyed this tour very much the tour guided made this tour fun to attend. The way they passed on info about the spaces and buildings that they showed us.
Jennifer C,
May 30, 2025
- Viator
Really nice way to learn more about Scottish literature in a relaxed atmosphere. We enjoyed the actors and a chance to see more of Edinburgh. The drinks were well priced at pubs we visited. Plus, Lots of laughter.
Melisa J,
May 29, 2025
- Viator
Fun experience! Great way to check out a few pubs, hear about some Scottish authors, and have a few laughs. Paul and Emma were great!
Operated by The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour