Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Best
Museums & Galleries
As Scotland's capital city, it's hardly surprising that Edinburgh is home to some
of the country's most important museums and art collections. You can admire the
old masters, from Titian to Turner, at the Scottish National Gallery, hone your
knowledge of Scottish heritage at the National Museum of Scotland, or delve in-
to the arcane delights of the city's less-well-known museums.
Museums & Galleries by Night
Several of the city's major institutions host 'after hours' events. The National Galleries
hold several 'Gallery by Night' events each year, with music, drama and comedy perform-
ances linked to current exhibitions, while the National Museum of Scotland stages
Saturday-night 'Museum After Hours' events during the Festival Fringe, with live music,
performers, drinks and snacks. Check websites for details.
Admission & Access
National collections (eg National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Gallery, Scottish
National Portrait Gallery, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art) and Edinburgh city-
owned museums (Museum of Edinburgh, City Art Centre etc) have free admission, except
for temporary exhibitions where a fee is often charged. Most private galleries are also free,
while smaller museums often charge an entrance fee, typically around £5 (book online at
some museums for discounted tickets). National collections are generally open from 10am
to 5pm, with the Scottish National Gallery and Scottish National Portrait Gallery staying
open till 7pm on Thursdays.
Top Tips
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The national collections have useful 'trail' leaflets that guide you around their highlights.
