The People’s Story Museum

The People’s Story Museum tells Edinburgh’s social history through the lives and voices of ordinary working people. It is housed in the Canongate Tolbooth, a landmark building dating from 1591 on the lower Royal Mile.

Displays use oral histories, written accounts, original objects and recreated rooms to cover work, home life, politics, leisure and public protest from the 18th century onwards. Highlights include trade union banners, traditional tools, a bookbinder’s workshop, a wartime kitchen, a tea room and a jail cell.

Planning a Visit

Entry is free, and the museum fits well into a walk between the Royal Mile, Museum of Edinburgh and Holyrood. The historic building has stairs and an unusual internal layout, so visitors with access needs should check the official guidance.

Getting There

The Canongate Tolbooth is on the lower Royal Mile, around a 15-minute walk from Waverley Station. Buses stop on nearby Canongate and Holyrood routes. Check the official People’s Story Museum page before travelling.