Queer History and Iconic Places: An Edinburgh Audio Tour

Edinburgh, Scotland
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Duration45m - 1h 15m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

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

What to expect

  1. 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.
  2. Pass by
    On this tour, you'll pass by the National Monument of Scotland and hear its history while you walk.
  3. The Edinburgh Playhouse
    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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Pass by
    This self-guided tour ends in front of 60 Broughton St. There you'll learn about this historical site.

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.

Additional information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by VoiceMap Audio Tours · Booked through Viator
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