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Home > Scotland > Things to do in Lothian Scotland > Scottish National Gallery

Scottish National Gallery

Located right in the centre of the city on the Mound, this grand building sits between the Old and New Towns. It is in Edinburgh, using the postcode EH2 2EL.

What to Expect and Enjoy
The gallery has recently been renovated to include massive, bright new spaces. It houses everything from Renaissance masterpieces to the very best of Scottish art.

  • Famous Faces and Landscapes: You can see world-famous paintings by artists like Monet and Van Gogh, but the real highlight for many is the Scottish collection. Look out for “The Skating Minister”—it’s one of the most famous images in Scotland!
  • The View: The gallery has huge windows that look out onto Princes Street Gardens. It’s a great spot to sit for a moment and watch the world go by.
  • The Architecture: Walking through the rooms with their deep red walls and gold frames feels very grand and traditional, while the new wing is sleek and modern.

Best For and Time Spent
Ideal for adults, couples, and seniors who want a bit of culture in a peaceful setting. It’s also great for older children and teens who might recognise some of the famous artworks.

  • Duration: Most people spend about 1.5 to 2 hours here.

Helpful Tips for Your Visit

  • Free Entry: Just like the National Museum, entry here is completely free, which is amazing considering the quality of the art.
  • Food & Drink: There is a fantastic cafe and restaurant on-site with views over the gardens. It’s a very popular spot for afternoon tea.
  • Nearby: You are right next to Princes Street Gardens, so it’s easy to pop out for a walk or to see the famous Floral Clock afterwards.

More Places Nearby

Almond Valley Heritage Centre Arthur’s Seat Blackness Castle Camera Obscura & World of Illusions Dalkeith Country Park Dalmeny House Dirleton Castle and Gardens Dynamic Earth East Links Family Park Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Ghost Tours Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) Edinburgh Zoo Five Sisters Zoo Fountain Park Foxlake Adventures Glenkinchie Distillery Hopetoun House House of the Binns Inveresk Lodge Garden Jupiter Artland Linlithgow Palace Lost Shore Surf Resort Malleny Garden Midlothian Snowsports Centre Murrayfield Stadium Tour Musselburgh Racecourse National Museum of Flight National Museum of Scotland Newhailes House North Berwick Harbour Rosslyn Chapel Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Scottish National Portrait Gallery Scottish Parliament Visitor Centre Tantallon Castle The Edinburgh Dungeon The Palace of Holyroodhouse The Royal Mile The Royal Yacht Britannia The Scottish Seabird Centre
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