History highlight

Festival

A new event is providing a unique insight into the astonishing history of Scotland and its people.

Scotland’s History Festival, which runs from 17-30 November, celebrates the country’s rich and colourful heritage and its extraordinary contribution in shaping the modern world.

It opened with an evening highlighting the life and literature of one of Edinburgh’s greatest authors, Robert Louis Stevenson, hosted by crime writer Ian Rankin (right) and actor, Nigel Planer.

Edinburgh-born Stevenson (1850-1894) is the world’s 26th most translated author having penned numerous books and children’s stories – most famously Treasure Island, Kidnapped and The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.

Festival producer Ian Harrower said: “We aim to bring the history made by Scotland’s people closer to Scotland’s people. There are over 40 organisations involved and over 200 events and activities happening across the city of Edinburgh.

“We’ve launched our festival under the banner ‘Previously…’ It’s the story so far.”

Debates, exhibitions and film shows and comedy nights will be held in the City Art Centre, Museum of Edinburgh, Museum of Childhood and Lauriston Castle.

Need to know
Admission Costs range from free up to £8. For more details go to www.edinburgh museums.org