Discovering Edinburgh Through the Eyes of a Gaelic Poet
Edinburgh, a city steeped in literary history and cultural richness, serves as a vibrant backdrop for Marcas Mac an Tauirneir, a Gaelic poet who has made this historic locale his home. Known for its cobblestone streets and sandstone architecture, Edinburgh is not just a city; it is a living anthology of stories waiting to be told. Mac an Tauirneir, who is also the poet-in-residence at the Balmoral Hotel, shares his insights on the literary gems and vintage treasures that define this UNESCO City of Literature.
A City Built on Arts and Culture
Edinburgh’s reputation as a cultural hub is well-deserved. The city has long been a sanctuary for artists, writers, and thinkers. Mac an Tauirneir emphasizes this point, stating, “Edinburgh was built on arts and culture, whether you engage with it as a UNESCO City of Literature or the place where theatre is developed for the Fringe.” This duality of literary and theatrical significance makes Edinburgh a unique destination for both locals and tourists alike.
The Balmoral Hotel, where Mac an Tauirneir crafts bespoke poems for guests, is a fitting symbol of this cultural richness. Voted one of the best hotels in the United Kingdom in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, the Balmoral serves as a luxurious gateway to the city’s artistic heritage.
The Allure of Secondhand Bookshops
For book lovers, Edinburgh offers a treasure trove of secondhand bookstores. Mac an Tauirneir suggests that there is no single best place to shop for books; rather, it’s about exploring multiple locations. “Secondhand bookshops are like Aladdin’s caves,” he notes. “You never know what you’re going to find.”
Among his recommendations are three notable shops located near the iconic Grassmarket: Edinburgh Books, Main Point Books, and Armchair Books. Each of these stores has its own unique charm and specialization, making them must-visit spots for bibliophiles.
A Journey Through Literary History
Mac an Tauirneir’s passion for Gaelic literature shines through when he mentions the Amnesty International Bookshop in Marchmont. This shop not only supports a worthy cause but also houses a collection of Gaelic literature. He recalls finding a special edition of poetry by Duncan Bàn MacIntyre, a Jacobite poet who once called Edinburgh home.
The poet’s connection to the city is palpable. “We celebrated his tricentenary last year with a memorial slab in Makar’s Court,” he explains. The book he purchased, published in 1887, serves as a tangible link to Edinburgh’s literary past. The history embedded in the pages of such books is a testament to the city’s enduring literary legacy.
Vintage Fashion Finds
Edinburgh is not just a haven for book lovers; it also boasts a vibrant secondhand clothing scene. Mac an Tauirneir highlights Armstrongs Vintage as a premier destination for vintage fashion. With multiple outlets across the city, the flagship store in Grassmarket stands out as a “cavern of vintage fashion,” offering everything from early twentieth-century attire to theatrical costumes.
His personal experience at Armstrongs is a testament to the thrill of secondhand shopping. “Back in 2019, I was asked to have a deep rummage in the charity shops and Armstrong’s for a feature for Radio nan Gàidheal about pre-loved fashion,” he recalls. During this exploration, he discovered a sage green tweed Argyll jacket for just £17, a piece that has since become a cherished part of his wardrobe.
The Intersection of Past and Present
The stories woven into Edinburgh’s fabric are not just confined to its literary and fashion scenes. The city’s rich history is reflected in its architecture, public spaces, and even its culinary offerings. Mac an Tauirneir’s experiences serve as a reminder that every corner of Edinburgh has a story to tell.
For instance, the locations of the secondhand bookshops he recommends are steeped in history. The area where the Amnesty International Bookshop stands was once home to the printing house of McLachlan and Stewart, a significant player in the city’s literary scene. This historical context adds layers of meaning to the act of purchasing a book, transforming it into a journey through time.
Conclusion: A City of Stories
Edinburgh is more than just a picturesque city; it is a living narrative, rich with history and culture. Through the eyes of Marcas Mac an Tauirneir, we see how the city’s literary and artistic heritage continues to inspire and captivate. Whether you are wandering through its secondhand bookshops or exploring its vintage clothing outlets, Edinburgh invites you to engage with its stories, both old and new. As Mac an Tauirneir eloquently puts it, “A secondhand bookshop can lead you on a whistlestop tour of Edinburgh’s literary history.” In this city, every book, every garment, and every street corner holds a piece of the past, waiting to be discovered.
