Edinburgh's Queer History: A Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour
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Overview
Queer History and Iconic Places: An Edinburgh Audio Tour explores Edinburgh's hidden LGBTQ+ history. This self-guided walking tour reveals the city's queer past and sheds light on its present, all while sharing fascinating insights about Scotland's capital.
Expect to discover the little-known history of cruising on Calton Hill and Edinburgh’s response to the AIDS crisis, all while enjoying splendid city views. The tour leads to Broughton Street, the heart of LGBTQ+ Edinburgh, pointing out the site of Scotland’s first LGBT center and the former location of Lavender Menace, Scotland’s first queer bookshop. Key stops include Calton Hill, the National Monument of Scotland, Edinburgh Playhouse, the Museum Collections Centre, Broughton Street, and 60 Broughton Street.
This tour includes lifetime access to the VoiceMap app for Android and iOS, offering offline access to audio, maps, and geodata in English. It excludes tickets or entrance fees, a smartphone and headphones, transportation, and food/drink. 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.




Highlights
Uncover Hidden History: Explore Edinburgh's LGBTQ+ past and present.
Self-Guided Exploration: Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Iconic Landmarks: See Calton Hill, Broughton Street, and more.
Offline Access: Use the tour even without internet access.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers appreciate the tour's informative content and flexibility. The tour's insights into Edinburgh's queer history are considered fascinating, making it a worthwhile experience for those interested in the topic. Be mindful that the content may not be suitable for young children and that a smartphone and headphones are needed.

Informative and educational content
Convenient and flexible self-guided format
Fascinating insights into Edinburgh's queer history
Well-researched and engaging storytelling
May not be suitable for young children due to mature themes
Requires a smartphone and headphones
The Journey
Calton Hill
Begin your journey atop Calton Hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh's Old Town. More than just a scenic overlook, Calton Hill holds a significant place in LGBTQ+ history, possibly serving as the city's longest continuously used queer space. Absorb the stunning vista while contemplating the hill's historical role as a meeting point and place of expression for the queer community.
National Monument of Scotland
Pass by the iconic National Monument of Scotland, an imposing yet unfinished structure atop Calton Hill. Hear the monument's story – a poignant tale of ambition and unrealized dreams – while considering the enduring spirit of progress, mirroring the LGBTQ+ community's ongoing pursuit of equality and acceptance within Scottish society.
Edinburgh Playhouse
Discover the vibrant history of the Edinburgh Playhouse, once home to a legendary weekly gay night hosted by the Scottish Homosexual Action Group, affectionately known as SHAG. Imagine the energy and excitement of those gatherings, a testament to the enduring spirit of community and celebration within Edinburgh's queer scene. This stop highlights the intersection of entertainment and activism.
Museum Collections Centre
Visit the Museum Collections Centre, a pivotal location that hosted 'Rainbow City' in 2006. This groundbreaking exhibition marked the first time queer history was showcased in a museum setting, offering a powerful moment of visibility and validation for the LGBTQ+ community. Reflect on the significance of this landmark exhibition and its impact on preserving and sharing queer stories.
Broughton Street
Immerse yourself in the heart of LGBTQ+ Edinburgh on Broughton Street. This vibrant street was once home to Scotland's first LGBT centre, a safe haven and hub for the community. Explore the former site of Lavender Menace, Scotland's pioneering queer bookshop, a beacon of knowledge and empowerment. Today, Broughton Street remains a vibrant testament to queer culture, filled with welcoming bars, restaurants, and shops, offering a taste of contemporary LGBTQ+ life in Edinburgh.
60 Broughton Street
Conclude your tour in front of 60 Broughton Street, a location steeped in historical significance. Uncover the compelling stories associated with this address, potentially linked to pivotal moments in Edinburgh's LGBTQ+ history, influential figures, or groundbreaking social movements. Let the echoes of the past resonate as you contemplate the progress made and the ongoing journey towards equality and acceptance.
Know Before You Go
This audio tour includes lifetime access to the VoiceMap app for both Android and iOS devices. It provides the tour in English and allows for offline access to audio, maps, and geodata. Please note that the tour does not include tickets or entrance fees to any attractions, a smartphone or headphones, transportation, or food and drinks. Make sure to bring your own smartphone and headphones to enjoy the experience fully. Meetup is at Calton Hill. No pickup or drop-off is included.
Hot Tip
Some users suggest downloading the tour content before arriving in Edinburgh to avoid using data or encountering potential connectivity issues. It's also recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking. Be aware the tour touches upon mature themes and is not suited for children.