Edinburgh Reading trip
Discover Edinburgh’s enchanting streets, historic closes and cosy cafés on a literary escape. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich literary heritage, explore atmospheric alleyways, browse independent bookshops and uncover fascinating stories around every corner, all while enjoying the perfect setting to relax with a good book.
Our book club will focus on Ian Rankin’s Mortal Causes, exploring its gripping plot, complex characters and dark Edinburgh setting through lively discussion and shared literary insights.
Your trip organiser will be Books in Places founder Paul Wright, or one of the experienced Books in Places team. Paul spent seven years running large book clubs in Bristol and Exeter before founding Books in Places in 2023. Since then, Books in Places has run more than 60 literary trips and reading retreats, bringing together hundreds of book lovers in destinations across the UK and overseas. Many guests return for further trips, and the focus is always on creating relaxed, sociable holidays where people who love books can enjoy travelling and discovering new places together.
Books in Places creates exceptional reading retreats and literary escapes for book lovers, offering opportunities to connect with fellow readers and travellers who share your passions. Most guests join us solo, and single occupancy is the standard. However, twin rooms are available for those who prefer to share the experience with a friend or partner.
We will include a guided tour of Edinburgh’s fascinating Mary King’s Close, exploring hidden underground streets, centuries-old stories and the lives of those who once called this historic city home.
Prices are based on making your own way to Edinburgh by train or car, OR with flights and a suitcase in the hold included. Should you want a flight with hand baggage only, please call us.
The Hotel
The 3* Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre offers a convenient base for exploring Scotland’s historic capital. Ideally located on Picardy Place, it’s within easy reach of Princes Street, Edinburgh’s shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. Guests can enjoy breakfast, a welcoming bar and lounge, free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour reception.
Your Room
Standard rooms at Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre offer comfortable, practical accommodation with cosy beds, an en-suite bathroom, flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Hotel Facts
- 186 rooms
- Lounge bar
- Restaurant
- Nearby car-parking
- Free WiFi
- Flat-screen TV
- Hairdryer
- Tea/Coffee making facilities
- Air-conditioning
Itinerary
Day 1
After arriving for our Reading Retreat and having time to check in, we will all meet up in the evening and have a meal together to get to know each other. Our focus for this trip will be Ian Rankin’s Mortal Causes, set in this historical city.
Day 2
Breakfast at hotel.
Today, we’ll discover more of Edinburgh’s fascinating history and hidden stories, with a guided tour of the atmospheric Mary King’s Close, exploring its historic underground streets and the lives of those who once lived there.
In the evening we will have a meal together where we will discuss the book.
Day 3
Breakfast at the hotel.
Today, enjoy some free time to explore more of Edinburgh at your own pace. Visit the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, wander through the historic West End, browse charming independent shops or relax in a cosy café with a good book.
In the evening we will have a meal together where we will talk about a “Book I Love”.
Day 4
Breakfast then depart for home.
Location
Edinburgh, Scotland’s captivating capital, is easily accessible from across the UK. Regular flights operate from regional airports all over the UK and Ireland, offering convenient travel options. Direct train services connect Edinburgh with major cities, including London, York, Newcastle and Birmingham, with the station centrally located. Alternatively, travelling by car offers flexibility to explore the surrounding Scottish countryside. With its rich literary heritage, historic landmarks and charming streets, Edinburgh is the perfect destination for a memorable reading holiday.
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