History events in Edinburgh

Maps: Memories from the Second World War

Through personal stories, photography and memorabilia, this exhibition at the National War Museum charts the creation and use of maps during the Second World War.

Dear Library

To mark our 100th birthday, the National Library of Scotland presents a special exhibition, 'Dear Library'.

Edinburgh Nuclear Bunker Tour

Don't miss an amazing opportunity to see part of Scotland's Cold War History on the Barnton Nuclear Bunker Tours every Saturday and Sunday!

Curious About Edinburgh - Quirky Heritage Walks for the Curious!

Have fun discovering Edinburgh on this award-winning, quirky, self-guided, heritage walk with a treasure hunt theme from Curious About!

Arthur’s Secrets

Come along to Holyrood Park and join this guided walk to learn more about Arthur's Seat's turbulent past, created by fire and ice!

Blood and Guts: The Twists and Turns of Edinburgh’s Medical History - Walking Tour

Join Surgeons' Hall Museums on their 5* weekend walking tour through Edinburgh’s old town and hear tales of old Edinburgh, disease, dissection and curious methods of treatment!

Giants

Discover life-sized 3D sculptures, skeletons, and fossils of giant prehistoric animals when the immersive, family friendly exhibition Giants comes to the National Museum of Scotland!

Edinburgh Old Town Guided Walking Tour

Discover the heart of Scotland's capital, beyond the reach of tour buses and guidebooks on this guided walking tour of Edinburgh's Old Town!

Edinburgh Forgotten Women

Join one of the Edinburgh Street Historians' highly skilled and experienced guides on an unforgettable walking tour all about the amazing women of our city's past 1000 years!

Prison Nursing Unlocked: A History Of Care And Justice

Experience the inspiring evolution of prison nursing at this RCN exhibition, learning about the work of early reformers like Elizabeth Fry and the vital care nurses provide for prisoner health today!

Palace Page Turners

Many authors have been inspired to pick up their pen to write about the Palace of Holyroodhouse... the Palace Page Turners sessions explore these literary works followed by a hearty discussion!

Relaxed Morning: National Museum of Flight

The National Museum of Flight host regular Relaxed Mornings suitable for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum.

Collection Centre Tours

Find out the our collections are used in international research and see objects rarely on public display on a guided tour of the National Museums Collection Centre!

Hop aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia this Easter

Hop aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia for an egg-cellent day out during the Easter Holidays and experience the UK's No.1 Attraction for yourself!

Unlocking the HES Archives

Unlocking the HES Archives is an exhibition celebrating the achievements of the Move Ready Project while also including images of favourite items as selected by archive staff.

Contagion & Carnage: The Plague Tour

The Real Mary King's Close is pulling back the curtain on one of Edinburgh's most harrowing historical events with its chilling immersive experience, Contagion & Carnage: The Plague Tour!

The Maltings Exhibition

Cramond is one of the oldest continuously occupied places in Scotland, and The Maltings is your gateway into that extraordinary story, from 8,500 BC right through to the Victorian era!

Visit the SS Explorer

The SS Explorer remains as the UK's very last steam sidewinder trawler and is also the last ship to be registered in Leith. Come along for a guided tour of the laboratories, cabins, and wheelhouse!

Banknote Bonanza: Spring Holiday Fun

Join Museum on the Mound for fun, free, family-friendly activities throughout the Spring holidays where you can explore the family trails and discover the secret world of banknotes!

Family Tours

Dive into history at Trinity House and explore the animals that sailors would meet on their travels, conquer an activity trail, and get hands-on with maritime objects in the 16th-century vaults!

Incontri: A Scots-Italian Photographic Archive

Join the Italian Institute of Culture for a glimpse into the rich and diverse narratives of Italians in Scotland with a curated collection of photographs and images!

Outlander Guided Tours

Step into the world of Outlander with this ultimate themed experience at Hopetoun House, exploring the iconic filming locations inside the House and across the historic Grounds!

Arthur’s Amble

Come along for a gentle guided walk around Hunter's Bog and St. Margaret's Loch and learn more about Arthur's Seat's turbulent past, created by fire and ice!

Ghosts - Tales of Terror at Lauriston Castle

Come along and see the sights of Lauriston Castle as never seen before... led by a professional tour guide, hear the history of the castle and ghostly tales of the city!

Closes & Coffee

Two hidden closes. One unforgettable morning. Step into a story steeped in centuries with Closes & Coffee, an exclusive immersive experience from The Real Mary King's Close and The Lost Close!

Dr Arnott’s Sampling Sensation

Delve into the strange and surprisingly scientific world of 17th-century medicine on one of Dr Arnott's Sampling Sensation workshops at The Real Mary King's Close!

National Museum of Flight Expert Talks

From April to October, learn more about the collections and the history of East Fortune Airfield with the National Museum of Flight's series of free expert talks!

The Dark Magic and Witchcraft Walking Tour

Take part in a unique hybrid walking tour and magic show through the closes and wynds of Edinburgh's ancient Old Town ending at The Banshee Labyrinth, Scotland's most haunted pub!

East Lothian Library Service Local History Centre Family & Local History Fair

Celebrate the Local History Centre's 50th Anniversary with Victorian dress-up, crafts, and a global family tree project at the John Gray Centre on Monday 20th April!

Agnes Owens In The Archives

Join speakers Laura MacDonald, Sorcha Dallas and Dr Colin McIlroy at the National Library of Scotland to hear how The Agnes Owens Archive's are being used to reappraise her legacy!

Portraiture from the Fleming Collection

Director of the Fleming Collection, Theodore Albano, brings us on an exploration of four centuries of Scottish Portraiture in this talk at the Assembly Rooms.

The Edwardians: Age of Elegance

The Edwardians: Age of Elegance explores the glitzy world of two of Britain's most fashionable royal couples – King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, and King George V and Queen Mary!

Spotlight Talk: Wax Moulage

Pop along to the Physicians' Gallery on Wednesday 29th April for a brilliant curator-led look into the fascinating history of medical wax models!

Daurk Days Or Fine: Celebratin Workin Class Wummin’s Vyces

Join Scots Scriever, Taylor Dyson, and special guests at the National Library of Scotland for a celebration of working class women's voices throughout Scottish history!

A Dram Of History

Step into the shadows beneath the Royal Mile and raise a glass to Scotland's most iconic drink with this exclusive experience at The Real Mary King's Close!

John Kay’s Edinburgh Street Characters and Visitors to the City

Eric Melvin, an established and respected local historian, gives the talk on artist and engraver John Kay (1742 – 1826).

‘Portobello’s Story’ Walking Tour With A Local Guide At Porty Festival

Hear stories of famous past residents including William Barnie, Harry Lauder and Sean Connery as you stroll through Portobello's historic spots on this walking tour with Heritage Guides!

Medical Tales - A History of Medicine in Edinburgh

Explore Edinburgh's gripping medical history on this 1-hour tour of Gladstone's Land, from home remedies and medical advancements to the city's illegal and immoral secrets!

Square Baw: A History Of Scottish Football

Join author Hamish MacDonald at the National Library of Scotland as he guides you through the history of Scottish football from the game's origins to the present day!

The Bayeux Tapestry: A Reality Check

Join Professor Jane Geddes at Dovecot Studios on Saturday 9th May for a brilliant look at the Bayeux Tapestry, exploring the everyday lives of the stitchers!

Welcome To Big Biba

Indulge in the 1970s design nostalgia with Steven Thomas at Dovecot Studios where he will be discussing the design process which led to the 'The Most Beautiful Store in the World'!

An Evening with Professor Sir Tom Devine

Celebrate East Lothian Libraries' Local History Centre's 50th birthday with a brilliant evening featuring Scotland's most eminent historian, Professor Sir Tom Devine!

Yotties’ Week

The Yotties return to The Royal Yacht Britannia! Don't miss your chance to meet the Yacht's former crew, who will don their white overalls once again and return to their beloved Britannia!

A History of Tea

Gladstone's Land cordially invites you to a very special tea party indeed where their storytellers will share the fascinating story of tea over a cup of tea. Or two. Or three.

Queen Elizabeth II Private Apartments Tour

To mark the centenary of Queen Elizabeth II's birth, don;t miss the chance to step inside her private apartments at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, which are being opened to visitors for the first time.

The Joy Of Home Shopping Catalogues

Join Graeme Hawley at the National Library of Scotland where he will explore the history, cultural impact and discuss his fascination with home shopping catalogues!

Spotlight Talk: Periods

Pop along to the Physicians' Gallery on Wednesday 27th May for a curator-led dive into the history, myths, and dubious treatments of menstruation!

The Ancient Order of Free Gardeners of East Lothian

Join Village Green Gatherings and local flowersmith, gardener and history enthusiast Ruth Alder for an engaging talk exploring the colourful history of the Ancient Order of Free Gardeners!

True Crime Tour

The darker side of Edinburgh's past, uncovered... step into the shadows of Edinburgh’s Old Town and explore the real stories of crime, punishment, and survival on The Real Mary King's Close!

Fashioning London Talk

Join Dr Christopher Breward at Dovecot Studios where he will be exploring the importance of London as a fashion capital and the perfect setting for the emergence of the dolly bird!

Thomas Pennant And The Origins Of Scottish Tourism

Join the National Library of Scotland to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the birth of Scottish explorer Thomas Pennant and explore his two famous journeys in the 18th century!

James Hutton at 300: A Celebration of Geology

Discover the legacy of Geologist James Hutton and celebrate his tercentenary with free, drop-in short talks, mini-tours and object handling at the National Museum of Scotland!

Arthur’s Evening Walk

Enjoy an evening stroll around Holyrood Park as you join our Rangers to learn more about Arthur’s Seat’s turbulent past, created by fire and ice!

Cashmere Shawls & Paisley Patterns Talk

Join researcher and Dovecot guide Odile Hughson to discover how Edinburgh and Paisley revolutionised the iconic cashmere shawl from luxury status symbol to swinging sixties staple!

Servants - Themed Tours at Lauriston Castle

Head along to Lauriston Castle for a look into rooms not usually seen by the public and learn about some of the incredible servants who made the castle their home!

Not Proven: Edinburgh’s 19th Century Sapphic Scandal

This Pride Month, join researcher Indigo Dunphy-Smith at the National Library of Scotland to revisit the history of a famous scandal that saw two Edinburgh schoolmistresses accused of lesbianism!

Centenary Dinner

Don your black tie or cocktail dress and celebrate the late Queen's centenary with a magnificent five-course dinner and dancing aboard the iconic Royal Yacht Britannia for a truly spectacular night!

Edinburgh Zoo Memories Week

Head along to Edinbugh Zoo and enjoy a special exhibition in Lemur lodge celebrating the Zoo's rich history and rediscover its most treasured memories through rare photographs and stories!

Leith Festival Open Day - Trinity House

Come along to Trinity House during the Leith Festival for a brilliant day of maritime films, self-guided tours, and cracking vault activities for the kids!

Tables Through Time

Scotland is served to you on a plate... enjoy a guided tour of Gladstone's Land following the lives of the residents and their changing attitudes towards food through the history of the property!

Pride History Tour

This Pride Month, step down into Edinburgh’s hidden history with a unique journey through the city's past at The Real Mary King's Close!

Holyrood’s History Walk

Discover Holyrood Park's incredible royal status and ancient past on a guided walk with the expert rangers on Wednesday 24th June!

Scotland’s First Warriors

Discover the thrilling origins of ancient combat through rare treasures, including the stunning Carnoustie Hoard, in this must-see journey through Scotland's prehistoric warrior past!

Spectacular Jousting

Experience life in medieval times and experience exhilarating horsemanship with impressive jousting skills as the brave and courageous knights battle it out at Linlithgow Palace!

William Dalrymple - The Relentless Rise of the East India Company

Do not miss the remarkable story of India and empire as it has never been told before, when William Dalrymple comes to the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh on Tuesday 7th July!

Costume Couture: Exhibition Preview

Celebration of sixty years of costume house Cosprop's creativity as you join the Dovecot team and the curator for a special exhibition preview event before it opens to the public!

Explore Engineering Cruise

Perfect for inquisitive minds of all ages, Maid of the Forth's Explore Engineering Cruise is the ultimate experience for bridge enthusiasts, engineering fans and families alike!

5 Mistakes That Changed History

From comedian and historian Paul Coulter comes 5 Mistakes That Changed History, a John Oliver-meets-Horrible Histories tour of five mistakes that impacted our world!

Edinburgh International Festival: The Legacy of Slavery

Discover a comprehensive history of the legacy of slavery and racial injustice – from Scotland to America – in the first international exhibition from the Legacy Museum this August.

Lauriston Links: Special Tour of Museum Collections Centre

Join Nico and Tracy for a special tour at the Museum Collections Centre to see items from the city collections from the time of the Reids and earlier owners of Lauriston Castle!

Myths and Legends Tour

This September, step beneath the Royal Mile and into a world where history and folklore entwine, on a 'Myths and Legends' Tour at The Real Mary King's Close!

Linlithgow Heritage Walk

Explore the history of Linlithgow on this circular walk around the town that kicks off and wraps up at the stunning Linlithgow Palace!

Suzannah Lipscomb & Kate Williams: To Kill A Queen

Join acclaimed historians Suzannah Lipscomb and Kate Williams at Assembly Rooms on Saturday 12th September for this unmissable live event exploring Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I!

My Royal Life: An Audience with Lucy Worsley

Prepare to be entertained, enlightened, and thoroughly charmed as Lucy Worsley reveals the secrets, stories, and splendours of Britain’s royal past.

Uncovering Ancient Egypt with Bettany Hughes

Step into the golden sands of Ancient Egypt with award-winning historian Bettany Hughes as she brings the land of the pharaohs vividly to life at the Assembly Rooms!

Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire

The 'Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire' exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland will reshape society's understanding of Scotland's relationship with the Roman world.

Experience the nostalgic charm of Newton Mearns as Eastwood Theatre debuts Tom Marchant's heartfelt 25-year-old documentary in their brand-new cinema room on Tuesday 21st April!

Explore the history of Clarkston and Overlee on this engaging 1.5-hour guided heritage walk, perfect for uncovering the local detective trail of how the settlement grew!

Uncover local secrets on this 1.5-hour detective trail through Stamperland and Netherlee as expert Stuart Nisbet brings local history to life!

Looking for the perfect family day out? Join Falkland Palace for their Renaissance Fayre... a magical day filled with historical reenactments, fun activities, and royal adventures for all ages!

Town and gown unite each April for the Kate Kennedy Spring Procession - a joyful, costumed celebration of St Andrews' rich tapestry, with over 150 symbols of local and global heritage!

The Bruce Festival is set to return to Dunfermline's Pittencrieff Park this summer, on Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st May, to celebrate the 750th anniversary of King Robert the Bruce's birth!

The Glasgow Vintage Vehicle Trust opens its Bridgeton Bus Garage to the public for their Super Sunday events throughout the year!

Renowned historian Mary Beard returns to the stage, stepping once more into the world of Ancient Rome — a civilisation whose stories still shape the way we see ourselves today.

Step into the golden sands of Ancient Egypt with award-winning historian Bettany Hughes as she brings the land of the pharaohs vividly to life at The Pavilion Theatre Glasgow!

On Saturday 25th April, Lanark town centre will step back in time as Lanark Medieval Celebration returns with a lively programme of demonstrations, performances and hands-on activities for all ages!

Ship Ahoy! is an exciting and unique event from Scottish Maritime Heritage including displays of model ships, ship photographs and historic video footage, as well as displays of working model ships.

Get ready for a day full of fun when Summerlee Museum's annual Classic Car Show returns on Sunday 26th April, perfect for families and car enthusiasts alike!

Experience the stirring true story of the Boswell's Galloping Farmers in Gallipoli through Sound Escape Theatre's six-part audio drama bringing Alexander Barclay's long-lost WWI memoir to life!

Experience the stirring true story of the Boswell's Galloping Farmers in Gallipoli through Sound Escape Theatre's six-part audio drama bringing Alexander Barclay's long-lost WWI memoir to life!

On selected days throughout the year the team at Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and volunteers hold a Highlight Talk exploring the life and works of Robert Burns!

Paisley's annual Sma' Shot day event, one of the oldest workers' festivals in the UK, will take place this year on Saturday 4th July!

Culture Night Stirling: Carnival of the Wolf will bring venues and unexpected spaces across the city to life through an exciting variety of events on Friday 1st May!

Join King Street Events at the King Street Aparthotel on Friday 1st May for an evening of storytelling exploring the history and legacy of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders!

The Antonine Guard will set up camp in the grounds of Kinneil Estate and engage with visitors on weaponry, armor and fighting techniques as part of Kinneil House's Roman Doors Open Day!