National Galleries Scotland: National
Edinburgh, Edinburgh and Lothian
About National Galleries Scotland: National
Immerse yourself in this breath-taking art collection for free. Enjoy paintings by internationally renowned artists such as Vermeer, Titian, Rembrandt, Velázquez and the Impressionists.
Explore the very best of Scottish art from 1800 to 1945 in the newly opened Scottish galleries. There is something for the whole family, with our Art Stomps (under 5s) and Art Chat (ages 6+) trails. Marvel at spectacular views over Edinburgh and discover the work of pioneering artists such as William McTaggart, Anne Redpath, Phoebe Anna Traquair, Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Boys.
Fridays are for families! Every Friday during term-time we have new play activities, sensory spaces and, of course, hands-on making with artists. All for free!
Or why not check out our Your Art World until November 2025. A colourful exhibition, showcasing the artwork of creative 3–18-year-olds from across Scotland.
Feeling inspired by the spectacular art? You’ll find drawing materials, story books, cosy cushions, ear defenders, sketchbooks, paper and Sensory Bags – to help you make the most of a visit to the galleries! In our sensory bags you'll find lots of fun things that you can touch, smell and make sounds with – can you find the artwork that matches the objects?
Buggies are of course welcome and we even have coin operated buggy parks. At the National, the buggy park is coin operated The National also has a Changing Places toilet and bookable disabled parking.
For those looking to plan their visit before they arrive the National provides sensory maps of to help visitors identify areas with changes in light, smells and noise. They locate permanent seating areas and less crowded, quieter spaces. Child and adult-sized ear defenders are available at the information desks at National.
Immerse yourself in Scotland's breath-taking art collection for free
Did you know that Scotland's national art collection belongs to you? We just look after it! Open to all seekers of art, culture, and relaxation. Here is a collection of art for you to immerse yourself in. Experience artworks from some of the greatest artists in history such as Botticelli, Raphael, and Titian and dive deeper into Scottish history with painters like Ramsey and Raeburn. Enjoy food and drink at the gallery café and restaurant and pick up a stylish memento from the shop.
Explore the very best of Scottish art from 1800 to 1945 in the newly opened Scottish galleries. There is something for the whole family, with our Art Stomps (under 5s) and Art Chat (ages 6+) trails. Marvel at spectacular views over Edinburgh and discover the work of pioneering artists such as William McTaggart, Anne Redpath, Phoebe Anna Traquair, Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Boys.
Fun for the whole family!
Fridays are for families! Every Friday during term-time we have new play activities, sensory spaces and, of course, hands-on making with artists. All for free!
Or why not check out our Your Art World until November 2025. A colourful exhibition, showcasing the artwork of creative 3–18-year-olds from across Scotland. Plus, there is still time to submit works for display! All 3-18 year olds living in Scotland are invited to send their art for inclusion in the exhibition, all you need to do is photograph their work and upload it to the National Galleries of Scotland’s online gallery, then come along to the exhibition and see their creations featured proudly on digital screens at the National!
Feeling inspired by the spectacular art? You’ll find drawing materials, story books, cosy cushions, ear defenders, sketchbooks, paper and Sensory Bags – to help you make the most of a visit to the galleries! In our sensory bags you'll find lots of fun things that you can touch, smell and make sounds with – can you find the artwork that matches the objects?
Making art work for everyone!
Facilities
Toilets
Free Wifi
Gift Shop
Changing Rooms
Accessible Toilets
Onsite Parking
Baby Changing
Food Available
Wheelchair Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Wheelchair Hire
Opening Times
- Monday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Tuesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Wednesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Thursday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Friday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Saturday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Sunday, 10:00 - 17:00
25 December: Closed
26 December: Closed
1 January: Open 12noon-5pm
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (4-17) : Free
- Adult (17-18+) : Free
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to National Galleries Scotland: National by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
On site we have The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant, Located at the main entrance to the National in East Princes Street Gardens, our restaurant offers incredible views east across the Gardens. Enjoy a lunch of Scottish classics like cullen skink and fish and chips or indulge yourself with our all-day brunch menu or an afternoon tea.
We also have Cafe Espresso, situated just inside the mound entrance to the National, Espresso is the perfect rest stop for art lovers in need of refuelling. Easy counter service offers access to fantstic coffee as well as a selection of freshly baked scones and delicious cakes. No need to book in advance.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Contact Details
National Galleries Scotland: National
The Mound
Edinburgh
Edinburgh and Lothian
EH2 2EL
Scotland
The National can be found just off Princes Street in the city centre.
Tel: 0131 624 6200
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
Train: The National is a few minutes’ walk from Waverley Station. Take the Waverley Bridge exit, and walk the short distance through Princes Street Gardens.
Tram: The trams pass by the National on Princes Street in both directions. Use the stop at the Mound
Bus: All city centre/Princes Street buses also pass by the National.
Verification & Last Updated
Verified Status:
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last Updated: 08:03 23/07/2026
National Galleries Scotland: National Reviews
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