Scottish National Gallery
About
The Scottish National Gallery sits in a handsome neoclassical building on The Mound, between the Old and New Towns, and its collection — though smaller than London's big galleries — is rich and beautifully displayed. The permanent collection spans the Renaissance to Post-Impressionism: Raphael, Titian, Velázquez, Vermeer, Monet, Degas, and an outstanding collection of Scottish art. The gallery's greatest treasure is arguably Botticelli's 'The Virgin Adoring the Sleeping Christ Child,' but there are gems throughout — Raeburn's 'The Reverend Robert Walker Skating on Duddingston Loch' (the skating minister) is one of Scotland's most beloved paintings. The Scottish collection rooms tell the story of the nation through art, from Ramsay to Raeburn to the Scottish Colourists. It's free, rarely crowded (even in August), and perfectly sized for a 90-minute visit. The location is superb — views from the gallery steps over Princes Street Gardens to the castle are spectacular. The café in the basement is decent. Combine with the connected Royal Scottish Academy building, which hosts major temporary exhibitions.
https://www.nationalgalleries.org/visit/scottish-national-gallery 0131 624 6200
Tickets & Pricing
Free. Some temporary exhibitions charged.
Opening Times
Daily 10:00-17:00 (Thu until 19:00). Closed 25-26 December.
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