Please be advised that Edinburgh city centre is becoming a low emissions zone (LEZ). All vehicles entering the city centre zone area must now meet the less-polluting emission standards or face a penalty charge. To check if your car meets LEZ emissions standards, please visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk/lez
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is one of the most beautiful buildings in Edinburgh. Designed as a shrine for Scottish legends, this neo-gothic masterpiece opened to the public as the world’s first portrait gallery in 1889. From Mary, Queen of Scots and Prince Charles Edward Stuart to Robert Burns and Sean Connery. The true greats of Scotland’s artistic past and present have all found a home in Edinburgh’s portrait gallery.
What You Will See at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery
With over 30 000 fascinating images in its collection, the gallery is a rare window into the lives of the men and women whose outstanding achievements help shaped Scotland and the rest of the world. Take a stroll along the Great Hall and the impressive library. Before travelling back in time through 17 different displays of Scottish history.
Fancy A Bite To Eat?
Nothing rounds off a trip down memory lane better than a delicious bite to eat at the Portrait Café. With a scrumptious variety of dishes to choose from, as well as a number of gluten and dairy free dishes. What more could you ask for? And once you have finished sampling the café’s wares, you can pick up some souvenirs in the stunning gift shop.
‘You will not be disappointed here! From the iconic hall, which has a border, featuring famous Scots through time, to the excellent portraits of famous and not so famous people. It ranges from very old, to very contemporary. Definitely recommend’
– The Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Visiting The Gallery
As part of the National Galleries of Scotland, entrance into the gallery is free. A free shuttle bus also connects the Scottish National Portrait Gallery with the other National Galleries, The National Gallery of Scotland and the National Gallery of Modern Art, making it easier than ever to spend all day exploring Scotland’s rich artistic heritage.
Once you’re completed the National Galleries of Scotland trifecta, join us at the Parliament House Hotel for a dram or two. You deserve it.
