Downloadable pdf of the very first guidebook to Edinburgh’s Vennel Steps.

Step back in time and into the Vennel’s intriguing past.

With its spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle and spooky night-time vibe, the Vennel has featured in the Netflix series One Day and in the new BBC Rebus drama. The backdrop of Edinburgh Castle makes the Steps a uniquely romantic place for trysting lovers and travellers posing for a selfie. But there is more to the Vennel than can be captured through the lens of a camera. It was once a slippery lane where children bearing candles offered to light people on their way. It was the birthplace of Scotland’s youngest (bagpiper) Suffragette. The Flodden Wall, George Heriot’s Hospital, a community garden for slum children, fireball football, false testimony at the trial of Burke and Hare – these are all part of the Vennel story.

The first-ever history and guide book devoted to the Vennel Steps.