Edinburgh · Old Town
National Museum of Scotland
A large free museum with Scottish history, natural history, world cultures and science, set in a Victorian hall and a modern wing. It is the best wet weather stop in the centre.
- 3 h
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Old Town
Data checked on October 5, 2026
The National Museum of Scotland joins two buildings: the glass and iron Grand Gallery and a modern block for Scottish history. Displays run from early peoples and the Lewis Chessmen to the wildlife galleries and the technology halls. A rooftop terrace gives a good view of the castle and the Old Town. Children find plenty to press and pull in the science and natural history rooms.
What to look for
- The Grand Gallery
- The Lewis Chessmen
- The rooftop terrace
- Dolly the sheep
Opening hours
| Monday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
| Wednesday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
| Thursday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
| Friday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
| Saturday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | |
| Sunday | 10:00 am–5:00 pm |
Open every day from 10:00 to 17:00. Check the museum's own page before a special visit.
Source: Forever Edinburgh (edinburgh.org), checked October 5, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free. Entry to the museum is free. Special exhibitions may be charged separately.
Getting there
Waverley station is about 10 minutes on foot, and the museum sits on Chambers Street near the top of the Royal Mile.
Tip
Head for the rooftop terrace on a clear day and plan around one or two floors rather than the whole building.