The Scottish Storytelling Center is a prominent performing arts center that focuses on Scotland's culture in its varied performances. Interestingly, the center mixes medieval architecture of the physical structure with its offerings of modern performances. With such an extensive program of live storytelling, workshops, family events, music and theater, everyone can find something exciting here and get valuable insight into centuries of Scottish history and culture.
When you visit this center, you'll always find something exciting to see and do. You can explore the architecture of this listed building even when there aren't any shows scheduled, or you can choose to attend a musical, a live performance or a live retelling of a fascinating story. Often, the performances mix those categories, as some performers tell stories through live music.
Scottish Storytelling Center in Edinburgh - one of the highlights of 11 Best Family Things to Do in Edinburgh (Read all about Edinburgh here)
photo by Brian McNeil (CC BY 3.0) modified
Scottish Storytelling Center highlights
The heart of the Scottish Storytelling Center lies within its performances, as numerous performances in a wide variety are held throughout the year. Many of the productions run for weeks at a time, but the center often features specialized events going on for just a short time. For example, the facility hosts a version of Campell's Ceilidh as a part of St Andrew's Fair Saturday.
The other highlight of the Scottish Storytelling Center is the John Knox House. This historical setting brings additional charm and a bit of mystery to the venue. You'll find tricks and traps throughout designed to fool intruders, so watch out. The Oak Room ceiling features a devil hiding somewhere among its busy textures, challenging your observation skills.
photo by Wandernder Weltreisender (CC BY 3.0) modified
Scottish Storytelling Center history
The center is a relatively new addition to the Royal Mile, as it was formally opened in 2006. It was the first modern venue built for the sole purpose of live storytelling. Designed by Malcolm Fraser Architects, the building replaced the Netherbow Arts Center, which had replaced the Moray-Knox Church in the 1960s. Since its induction, the Scottish Storytelling Center has won numerous awards, and it's used during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
The historical John Knox House is incorporated into the venue's construction, but the history of that house dates back much further than 2006. The house was constructed in 1470 and is the oldest still-standing medieval building on the entire Royal Mile. John Knox only stayed in the house for a short period, but that was enough to mark the building as a historical site.
Good to know when visiting the Scottish Storytelling Center
Before you visit the Scottish Storytelling Center, you should look into what kind of productions they're hosting during your visit. While you'll often find something fascinating, there are days in which nothing is going on at all aside from their daily operations. Those daily operations, however, can be quite fulfilling, as the onsite bookstore and cafe have some incredible offerings in a relaxing and historical atmosphere.
When you're visiting the Scottish Storytelling Center, you'll find yourself close to a wide variety of other attractions in Edinburgh. Being on the Royal Mile, you'll have easy access to historical buildings and museums. Calton Hill is just a short walk to the north, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Head west and you'll find yourself at the Scottish National Gallery after walking for little more than 10 minutes.
Scottish Storytelling Center in Edinburgh
Location: 43-45 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SR, UK
Open: Wednesday–Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm (closed Monday–Tuesday)
Phone: +44 (0)1315 569579
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