Visit the Rich Heritage of Scottish Art at the National Galleries of Scotland

First of all, to understand its history, it's best to know that the National Galleries of Scotland is a non-departmental executive public body that controls Scotland's three national galleries and thus shapes one of Scotland's national collections.

The National Galleries of Scotland began to take shape in 1859, when the National Gallery, now known as “the National”, designed by William Henry Playfair, opened its doors to the public for the first time that same year. At the time, the building home to the National was shared with the Royal Scottish Academy.

After only a few years, the success of the gallery and the growth of the National Gallery's collection of paintings were such that the National Portrait Gallery was founded in 1882 in response to this strong demand and opened to the public in 1889.

Changes to this public body continued over the years. In 1906, it was agreed that the National Gallery did not have enough space to display all of its collections and that the entire building, which had until now been shared, should be reserved exclusively for it. The Royal Scottish Academy was, thus, relocated to the building opposite.

It was then in 1959 that a brand new project was launched. A third gallery opened, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, at Inverleith House in Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden. In its early days, it consisted mainly of works of art dating from after 1900 and moved from the National Gallery. It was from 1960 onwards that the gallery acquired new objects to complete its collection.

However, when the Modern Art Gallery began to build up new collections of modern art, its building at the time became too small to accommodate them all. So the gallery moved to Belford Road, a former school. The collection has grown steadily over the years, to the point where a second part of the modern art gallery was created in 1999, called Gallery of Modern Art Two, or Dean Gallery. The latest is now located opposite Gallery of Modern Art One in a former orphanage.

No matter your taste in art, Scotland’s collection is sure to please you as it is home to 120,000 objects of world class art. From Van Gogh’s Paintings to Alberta Whittle sculptures to Titian masterpieces, visiting the National Galleries of Scotland will seem like a unique experience.

Immerse yourself in Scotland's art treasures and learn more about the history of each work and artist on display. Moreover, the galleries are linked to the Smartify app, which will give you an audio tour of your favourite works after scanning them. Useful, isn’t it?

So let's delve into each gallery!

Scottish National Gallery

This first gallery houses Scottish and international works of art from 1300, the Renaissance, to 1945, the beginning of the 20th century. Spanning over 6 centuries, this array of masterpieces show the evolution of art in Scotland and all over the world. As you stroll through the gallery and discover various masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer or even Sir Henry Raeburn, you can't help but be amazed.

If you need a little more energy to continue your quest, a visit to the national gallery is best accompanied by a snack and a drink at the gallery's cafe “Cafe Espresso”. However, if you need more to satisfy your hunger, a meal at the Scottish Cafe & Restaurant might be the perfect option for you. And finish up your visit by taking a little of the gallery home with you, thanks to the gallery's shops and its wide range of souvenirs.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art:

Spread over two buildings and featuring two sculpture parks, contemporary art lovers agree that the Modern Art Gallery is a must-see opportunity to experience the best of contemporary art in Edinburgh.

Modern One

The first building on the site, called Modern One, offers today's artists a place to showcase their work. Feel free to explore the gallery further and take part in unique experiences while admiring innovative installations and even performances…

Whether you prefer to go inside or outside the building, you'll find art everywhere, from the modern gallery installations to the beautiful landscape carefully designed by architect Charles Jencks in the outdoor garden. What's more, make the most of the experience by extending the moment with a picnic in the garden. An ideal moment for all families!

Modern Two

Continue your visit by crossing the road and entering Modern Two, the gallery's second building. The gallery mainly exhibits works from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Here you will find iconic sculptures such as the “Lobster Telephone”, a telephone with a plaster lobster resting on it. This 1938 sculpture by Salvador Dali and Edward James is the perfect example of the Surrealist movement. Dive in and explore this work that blurs the boundaries between the everyday and the fantastic.

Once again, continue your visit outside and wander among the sculptural works on display in the outdoor garden. As all this walking will probably whet your appetite, don't hesitate to head straight for Paolozzi's Kitchen, located in the Modern Two building, to treat yourself for some Italian cuisine.

Scottish National Portrait Gallery:

Learn more about Scotland's past by discovering the people who have shaped the nation's history and culture. Monarchs, artists and all the individuals who have had an impact on Scotland have their portrait in the gallery. During your visit, you'll not only see portraits of Mary, Queen of Scots, or the poet Robert Burns, but you'll also be amazed by the beauty of the place. Housed in a neo-Gothic palace, the gallery will captivate you with its grandiose architecture.

The best part is yet to come, head into the Great Hall and look around you. This magnificently decorated hall is the centrepiece of the building. From elaborate murals to sculptures and a zodiacal ceiling, you'll lose yourself for a moment in contemplating these marvels. And whatever your age, you'll find joy and amusement in counting the stars of the great hall, but be prepared to take your time as there are 2,000 of them.

📍 Address: Although the three galleries are part of the National Galleries of Scotland, they are all in different locations. National gallery: The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL Modern: 73 & 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR Portrait: 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD

🕒Opening times: The galleries are all open to the public daily from 10am to 5pm, as is their boutique.

🎟️ Admission : Admission to the galleries is free, however some exhibitions are chargeable.