13-29 October 2023

Scottish International Storytelling Festival

The 2023 Scottish International Storytelling Festival explores our Right To Be Human, and celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Just as Scotland’s consultation on a new Human Rights Bill draws to a close, storytellers, musicians and artists will join together in venues across the country to embrace this milestone with tales of human courage and creativity, spoken with powerful words.

During this year’s festival, which runs from 13-29 October 2023, there will be stories told about the impacts of war, gender inequality, censorship; ethnic, cultural, linguistic and religious prejudices; and other threats and challenges on our human rights as a global nation.

Join us at the Scottish Storytelling Centre as we invite everyone to the ceilidh; locally, nationally and globally.

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Browse the 2023 Programme

Develop your storytelling skills throughout the year with our 2023 workshop programme

Storytelling Workshops 2023

Our participatory sessions are designed to help you improve your skills and share your experiences with fellow storytelling enthusiasts.

This carefully curated workshop programme offers you the chance to work with highly-skilled and experienced artists, giving you guidance on improving your practice and discovering your own talent. 

 

  • Workshops for all levels
  • Led by professional storytellers
  • Skills Development

 

Browse Workshops!

Scottish Storytelling Centre | Ionad Sgeulachdan na h-Alba

Welcome

A vibrant arts venue with a seasonal programme of live storytelling, theatre, music, exhibitions, workshops, family events and festivals.

The venue and its staff have a welcoming spirit, inclusive nature and talent and creative skill to boot.

What makes the Centre special is its unique approach to collaboration and the welcome it affords performers, customers and audiences.

The Centre's ethos is summed up nicely by the old Scottish proverb, “The story is told eye to eye, mind to mind and heart to heart”.

‘A fitting tribute to Scotland’s oral tradition, housed in a marvel of modern-meets-medieval architecture.’
(Nikki Boyle, Time Out)

'a place dedicated to the fine art of telling stories. And it is fabulous.' (Edd McCracken, Book Riot)

More about the Centre

Step Inside History

John Knox House

A-listed building dating back to 1470 which houses an exhibition exploring the Scottish Reformation.

A very unique and historic setting for small-scale events, like wine-tastings or intimate wedding blessings.

A guided tour of the house can also be arranged as part of your event, plus Story Tours for those wanting further insight into Old Edinburgh and its characters.

Find Out More

See Bespoke Tours

Arguably the most picturesque dwelling house in Edinburgh’s Old Town” (Frommer’s)

Need a Venue?

We'll help tell your story

We’ve had parties, conferences, ceilidhs, workshops, wine tastings, book launches, exhibitions and small weddings taking place in our venue.

Learn More

When are you open?

Opening Times

We are currently open Monday – Sunday, 10am-6pm.

Festive Opening Hours:

Sunday 24/12/2023 CLOSED

Monday 25/12/2023 CLOSED

Tuesday 26/12/2023 CLOSED

Wednesday 27/12/2023 OPEN (Magic Fest 9-9 TBC)

Thursday 28/12/2023 OPEN (Magic Fest 9-9 TBC)

Friday 29/12/2023 OPEN (Magic Fest 9-9 TBC)

Saturday 30/12/2023 OPEN (Magic Fest 9-9 TBC)

Sunday 31/12/2023 CLOSED Monday 01/01/2024 CLOSED

Tuesday 02/01/2024 CLOSED

Wednesday 03/01/2024 CLOSED

Thursday 04/01/2024 CLOSED

Friday 05/01/2024 CLOSED

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