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The world's first purpose-built centre for live storytelling featuring theatre, music, exhibitions, and the historic John Knox House.
Free entry
Venue Type
Indoor
Typical visit duration
1-3 hours
Booking
Walk-in
Recommended ages
5 years – 12 years
Within 10 minutes walk
Free entry
We analysed 31 parent reviews from the past 12 months and distilled the key insights for you.
Updated 27 February 2026Join KiddyCompass™ Family to unlock 10 insight categories and age suitability data.
Become a Family MemberI love coming here for their international storytelling festival which is in the end weeks of October. They always have an interesting range of storytellers. If new to this art form try an open hearth session. There is a good selection of related books for sale & other events through the year.
Visiting the Scottish Storytelling Centre was a highlight in our weekend trip to Edinburgh! We popped in for breakfast at the cafe. We had the two different types of haggis, which were both absolutely delicious - my partner enjoyed the classic version and I loved the one with red wine sauce. The man working the counter was very friendly and welcoming, and the space itself was relaxed and comforting. I especially enjoyed seeing the art exhibition by Hester Aspland. We then explored the bookstore and purchased a beautifully illustrated and autographed witch compendium - perfect for fall and spooky season! Unfortunately we could not attend any of the events, but they all sound absolutely incredible - everything from examining mental health in incarcerated populations to diving deeper into Scottish myths and legends. In short, it's a comforting place with delicious food, fascinating art and talks, and a lovely bookshop staffed by kind and welcoming people - what's not to love?
Popped in for the Hester Aspland exhibition, fantastic drawings and such a yreat to look through the sketch books. Lovely coffee and cake too and things for kids to do, good bookshop too
I go here for the Loud Poets spoken word nights so I'm in buoyant spirits anyway BUT the dude that runs the bar/cafe is super friendly and quick serving the crowds. The architecture gives a contemporary cathedral feeling. Like stories are valued, treated with reverence. There's a lovely little bookshop.
Beautiful building new and old. Wonderful kind staff. Excellent range of storytelling performances and the haggis box cafe was fantastic. Love the red wine sauce for the haggis. Wonderful cultural centre. Highly reccomend for all ages!
Reviews last updated: 6 December 2025
Free entry

Fri 16 Oct · 11am–12pm
Organised by Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Sat 17 Oct · Sessions 10:30am–6pm
Organised by Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Sun 18 Oct · 2pm–3:30pm
Organised by Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Sat 24 Oct · 11am–12pm
Organised by Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Sat 31 Oct · 10:30am–12pm
Organised by Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Sun 29 Nov · 11am–12pm

Sun 6 Dec · Drop in 12pm–3pm
This venue was last updated on 4 December 2025
