Queer History and Iconic Places: An Edinburgh Audio Tour

45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Like many cities, Edinburgh’s queer history runs deep, yet it’s hidden in plain sight. On this walking tour, I’ll reveal the city’s queer past, shed light on queerness in Edinburgh today, and share some fascinating tidbits about Scotland’s capital too.

Along with finding out about the little-known history of cruising on the hill and Edinburgh’s response to the AIDS crisis, you’ll be able to soak up splendid city views. From there, you’ll make your way down to Broughton Street, the heart of LGBTQ+ Edinburgh. Along the way, I’ll point out the site of the country’s first LGBT centre, and where Scotland’s first queer bookshop, Lavender Menace, used to be.

Please note that the tour includes mention of subjects like sex and drug use and as such is not suitable for children. There’s no explicit content, so it may be suitable for young people at their parent or guardian’s discretion.

What's Included

VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
Lifetime access to this tour in English
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food/Drink

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This audio tour starts on Regent Street. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End point

This self-guided audio tour ends in front of 60 Broughton Street.

Itinerary

Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes (approximately)
  • Calton Hill (Pass by)

    This self-guided audio tour starts by looking out over the Old Town before wandering up Calton Hill, possibly the longest continuously used queer site in the city.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    On this tour, you'll pass by the National Monument of Scotland and hear its history while you walk.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    On this self-guided audio tour, you'll hear about the weekly gay night held at the Edinburgh Playhouse, hosted by the Scottish Homosexual Action Group, or SHAG for short.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    On this self-guided audio tour, you'll see the Museum Collections Centre which hosted Rainbow City, the first queer history exhibition in 2006.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    From there, you’ll make your way down to Broughton Street, the heart of LGBTQ+ Edinburgh. Along the way, I’ll point out the site of the country’s first LGBT centre, and where Scotland’s first queer bookshop, Lavender Menace, used to be.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    This self-guided tour ends in front of 60 Broughton St. There you'll learn about this historical site.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

Tags

Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Zombie
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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