If you are visiting Edinburgh, then make sure to check out the amazing museums and galleries the city has to offer. Edinburgh is home to a number of fascinating museums and galleries that are definitely worth visiting. From the iconic National Museum of Scotland to the historic Writers’ Museum, here are our top 5 must-visit museums in Edinburgh.
1) The National Museum of Scotland
If you’re visiting Edinburgh, one museum you absolutely cannot miss is the National Museum of Scotland. Located on Chambers Street, this stunning museum houses a huge collection of exhibits showcasing the country’s natural, cultural, and historical heritage.
The museum has something for everyone, with exhibits ranging from fossils and prehistoric artifacts to fashion and technology. Highlights include the iconic Millennium Clock, the natural history gallery (featuring a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton), and the amazing interactive exhibits in the Science and Technology gallery.
The National Museum of Scotland also offers guided tours, talks, and workshops, making it a fantastic educational destination for visitors of all ages. If you’re travelling with kids, be sure to check out the museum’s interactive Imagine, Explore, Discover play area, where children can climb, explore, and learn about science, technology, and history in a safe and exciting environment.
History buffs and a science enthusiasts will love it here – make sure you add it to your Edinburgh itinerary!
2) The Scottish National Gallery
Another top pick for museum-goers in Edinburgh is the Scottish National Gallery. Located in the heart of the city, this museum boasts an impressive collection of artwork dating back to the Renaissance era.
Visitors can peruse masterpieces from famous artists such as Botticelli, Raphael, and Titian, as well as notable Scottish painters like Sir Henry Raeburn and Allan Ramsay.
The gallery also hosts a variety of rotating exhibits and events throughout the year, so even if you’ve been before, there’s always something new to see. And with free admission to the main galleries, this museum is a budget-friendly option for those looking to explore the arts and culture of Scotland.
One highlight of the Scottish National Gallery is its collection of Scottish art, which showcases the country’s rich artistic history. From landscapes and portraits to still lifes and abstract works, the pieces on display provide insight into the unique artistic perspective of Scotland and its people.
For those looking to dive deeper into the world of art, the Scottish National Gallery also offers guided tours, talks, and workshops led by expert curators and educators. If you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational way to spend an afternoon, this museum is definitely worth a visit.
3) The Museum of Childhood
If you’re looking for a museum that’s as fascinating as it is nostalgic, then The Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh is the perfect destination. Located on the Royal Mile, this museum houses an extensive collection of toys and games that date back to the 18th century.
The museum showcases a diverse range of childhood toys and objects that are sure to bring back fond memories of your own childhood. From dolls, teddy bears, and toy soldiers to board games, puppets, and costumes, there’s something for everyone here. And the best part is that it’s all free!
One of the highlights of The Museum of Childhood is the collection of vintage toys, including a 1930s pedal car and a 1950s train set. You’ll also find a range of interactive exhibits, where you can play with traditional Scottish toys like the tawse and the skipping rope.
For history buffs, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the social history of childhood in Scotland, from the 18th century through to the present day. You’ll learn about the different types of toys that were popular throughout history and how they reflected changes in society.
The Museum of Childhood is a fun and educational museum that’s perfect for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a parent looking to entertain your children or a history buff looking to learn more about the evolution of childhood toys, this museum is definitely worth a visit.
4) The Writers’ Museum
If you’re a bookworm or a literature enthusiast, you simply cannot miss The Writers’ Museum. Tucked away in the heart of the Old Town, this museum pays homage to the greatest Scottish writers of all time.
The museum is located in Lady Stair’s House, a beautiful 17th-century building that once belonged to Lady Stair, a wealthy noblewoman. Inside, you’ll find a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and memorabilia dedicated to three of Scotland’s most famous literary icons: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Explore the exhibition rooms and discover the personal belongings of these literary giants, including Stevenson’s walking stick, Scott’s desk, and Burns’ writing chair. The museum also boasts an extensive collection of rare books and manuscripts, including the original manuscript of Stevenson’s “Treasure Island.”
Don’t miss the charming courtyard garden, where you can sit and enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by literary history. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a live reading or book launch event at the museum.
The Writers’ Museum is a must-visit for anyone with a passion for literature. It’s a hidden gem in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town that is sure to enchant and inspire you.
5) The Surgeons’ Hall Museum
If you’re interested in medical history and curious about the gruesome procedures of the past, then the Surgeons’ Hall Museum is the place to go. Established in 1699, this museum is owned by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, and is the largest medical museum in Scotland.
The museum has six floors filled with fascinating exhibits, including rare and historic surgical instruments, anatomical specimens, and portraits of famous Scottish surgeons. One of the most popular exhibits is the Burke and Hare display, which tells the story of two notorious serial killers who sold corpses to medical schools for dissection in the 19th century.
Visitors can also see the skeleton of the famous Irish giant, Charles Byrne, and learn about the history of dentistry and anesthesia. The museum’s medical library contains a collection of rare books and manuscripts, including the first ever anatomy textbook, written by the Greek physician, Galen.
One of the most unique exhibits is the Surgeon’s Square, a reconstructed operating theatre from the 19th century, complete with wooden benches and surgical tools. Visitors can witness live demonstrations of surgical procedures, including amputations and childbirth, as they would have been carried out in the past.
The Surgeons’ Hall Museum is not for the faint-hearted, but for those with an interest in medical history and anatomy, it is an incredible experience. With interactive exhibits, live demonstrations and fascinating displays, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Image Credit: NMS