In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

1940s Police Box

28 September 2024

An Edinburgh police box with original interior fittings, commissioned in May 1933, as produced to the 1929 design of City Architect Ebenezer James MacRae to fulfil a modern, practical and technical function, whilst being styled to fit in with the city’s existing architecture. Set up with a display of contemporary artefacts to illustrate how the building was used as a part of the city-wide network to connect police officers and the public.

In Person

Edinburgh

Abbey Strand Centre, Holyrood

29 September 2024

Sitting just outside of the gates of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Abbey Strand buildings have been witness to more than five centuries of Scottish history. They have seen many uses, including a weapons store during the reign of James V and a home to debtors inside the Abbey Sanctuary. Today, the Abbey Strand Centre is a place for learning, with a varied programme of school visits, workshops and lectures taking inspiration from the rich history of the Palace and surrounding area.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Abden House, The Confucius Institute - University of Edinburgh

29 September 2024

Abden House was built in 1855 for Thomas Nelson, founder of the Scottish publishers of the same name, and designed by civil engineer Thomas Davies. Today it?s the property of the University of Edinburgh, gift to them by Sir Donald Pollock.Built with three storeys in the Jacobean revivalist style of the 19th century, Abden faces a carriage circle with gates at the end of Marchhall Crescent. It has an irregular plan with single story wings on the North and South sides.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Adam Smith’s Panmure House

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Built in 1691, Panmure House is the final remaining home of economist and philosopher Adam Smith, who occupied the House from 1778 until his death there in 1790. During his tenancy, Smith completed the final editions of his magnum opus The Wealth of Nations, and regularly hosted key figures of the Scottish Enlightenment. Rescued and restored by Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University, it is now a new centre for global economic and social debate, not normally accessible to the public.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Advocates Library

28 September 2024

The Advocates Library was founded in 1689 and is housed in Parliament House next to the Supreme Court/Court of Session, beside St Giles. It is the oldest and largest law library in Scotland where Advocates study and research the law to support the justice system in Scotland.

In Person

Edinburgh

Anatomical Museum, Old Medical School - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

The Anatomical Museum is in the current Anatomy Department in the Old Medical School, which opened for the winter session of anatomy teaching in 1880. The building was designed by Robert Rowand Anderson.

In Person

Edinburgh

Ashworth Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

The Ashworth Labs were built in the late 1920s to house the University of Edinburgh’s Zoology Department. (Note the beautiful stone animal plaques on the exterior.) They now house part of the ever-expanding School of Biological Sciences at the University. On Doors Open Day the Labs will have exhibits, interactive displays and public talks about the range of cutting-edge research currently carried out across the School, as well as tours of the University’s Natural History collections.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Augustine United Church

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Augustine is a diverse, progressive Christian congregation of the United Reformed Church, with a striking building on George IV Bridge. Our four-storey building has been “standing strong” for over a century and a half. It rises up from Merchant Street, next to the Cowgate, towards an elaborate tower that earned the church the nickname of “the bridecake” when it was opened in 1861.

In Person

Edinburgh

Bank of Scotland Head Office - The Bryce Hall

28 September 2024

Originally opened in 1806, the historic Bank of Scotland Head Office at the Mound now also serves as the Scottish Head Office for Lloyds Banking group. The Bryce Hall was originally the site of the bank telling hall, and is now used for conferences and meetings, as well as displaying some of the Group’s art collection. The building is also home to Museum on the Mound, which charts the history of the Lloyds Banking Group family, and money itself.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Barnton Bunker

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Historically, the bunker was constructed and used as a strategic base of operations for the military during WWII, and then developed into a three-story-deep nuclear bunker during the Cold War era--to ensure the royal family would have a secure place to retreat to in the event of nuclear warfare or fallout in the UK. Today, after decades of disuse, vandalism and neglect, it has come under the protection of the volunteer-operated Barnton Bunker Preservation Society {a registered charity organization--SCIO - SC052353} and is steadily growing into the place we have envisioned; a multi-purpose complex where the arts, immersive experiences, and everyday imagination can grow and thrive.

In Person

Edinburgh

BioQuarter (IRR and Usher Building) - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

Visit two of the newest buildings at the BioQuarter to have a snoop around! Meet researchers from across the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. Join us for hands-on family activities and guided tours of the buildings and laboratories.

In Person

Edinburgh

Bridgend Farmhouse

28 September 2024

Bridgend Farmhouse is a traditional 18th century farm steading on one of the main roads out of Edinburgh to the south. It was a working farm till the year 2000 when it was acquired by Edinburgh City Council. However, it then lay derelict for ten years until a group of local people won a Lottery grant to restore the building and open it as a community centre.

In Person

Edinburgh

Broughton St Mary’s Parish Church

28 September 2024

Opened for worship in 1824 as part of the Georgian New Town of Edinburgh, Broughton St Mary’s is a distinctive landmark on the city skyline. Among the church’s most striking features are the stained glass windows, the attractive paneling around the front of the gallery, and the pulpit, said to be one of the highest in Scotland. The fine Lewis organ dates from 1882. Recently refurbished, the church celebrates its 200th anniversary this year.

In Person

Edinburgh

Burns Monument - Edinburgh & District Burns Clubs Association (EDBCA)

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

This prominent monument on the slopes of Calton Hill commemorates poet Robert Burns. Monuments in this style were built in ancient Athens to celebrate the poetic arts, and was designed by Thomas Hamilton to house a statue of the bard by sculptor John Flaxman. Burns' poetry and song will be performed by members and friends of Edinburgh and District Burns Clubs. The Burns Poetry garden around the monument contains flowers mentioned in his poetry.

In Person

Edinburgh

Castlebrae Business Centre

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The former Niddrie Marischal Junior Secondary School housed in an Art Deco 1930's building, now operating as a social enterprise with 41 business tenants.

In Person

Edinburgh

Chapel of St Albert the Great

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The awarding winning Chapel is part of St Albert’s Catholic Chaplaincy, which serves the spiritual needs of Catholic staff and students of Universities of Edinburgh, Napier and Queen Margaret. It belongs to the Dominican Friars who built it in the their back garden in 2012. Access is from George Square Lane.

In Person

Edinburgh

Christ Church Morningside

28 September 2024

Christ Church (Scottish Episcopal Church) circa 1876, was one of the churches built to service the growing population of South Edinburgh in the 19th century. It is French Gothic, the apse with its gables and flying buttresses face onto the road while the main entrance is beneath the tower. There are original murals in the chancel and nave roof. There is also extensive stained glass by Ballentine and the east window is by A E Borthwick.

In Person

Edinburgh

Church of the Good Shepherd

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The Church of the Good Shephard at Murrayfield is one of the first public buildings to be designed by the distinguished Scottish architect, Sir Robert Lorimer, and first opened for public worship 125 years ago in March 1899.  Much of the interior is also Lorimer designed. 

In Person

Edinburgh

Collective - City Observatory

28 September 2024

Explore the City Observatory on Calton Hill, the birthplace of astronomy and timekeeping in Edinburgh – and now the home of Collective, a contemporary art organisation who present a year-round programme of exhibitions, walks, and events.

In Person

Edinburgh

Corstorphine Hill Tower (1)

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

This is a historic folly built by the then landowner in 1871 the centenary of Sir Walter Scott's birth. It is built on the summit of the Hill from stone quarried from the Hill. It is about 20m high with a viewing platform which is just above the trees. It commands magnificent views of the city centre, the Firth of Forth, the Fife coast, and the Pentland Hills. On clear days the Bass Rock and Isle of May can be seen to the east and the bridges, the Ochills and the Trossachs to the west. It is situated in the woodland of Corstorphine Hill Local Nature Reserve, with many woodland paths to explore.

In Person

Edinburgh

Craigsbank Parish Church

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

This Sanctuary was designed in the 1960s by Sir William Kininmonth. Influenced by Le Corbusiers Chapel at Ronchamp, the Sanctuary has an illusion of floating above ground with its the striking square plan and plain white windowless exterior. The interior generates a sense of drama, interpreting the 'Covenanting Conventicle Church' by its hollowed-out form and surrounding sweeping terraces of seating. The innovative inverted clerestory perimeter allows the ceiling to float and filter in daylight into the balanced square worship plan, ultimately creating a peaceful atmosphere.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Cramond Kirk

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The name Cramond comes from Caer Amon, the fort on the River Almond. This was the Roman fort, some of whose foundations are visible and others marked. The area also contains remains from the two World Wars particularly round the island and there was once a passenger ferry across the Almond to the Dalmeny Estate. Cramond was included in Edinburgh in the expansion of 1920.

In Person

Edinburgh

Custom House - Scottish Historic Buildings Trust

28 September 2024

Custom House, one of Leith's most distinctive Georgian buildings, is now a buzzing creative hub and hireable event space in the heart of The Shore. It is the oldest custom house in Scotland, now an A-listed Georgian Building. Custom House was designed by Robert Reid in a neo-classical style constructed between 1810-12 with alterations by William Burns in 1825.

In Person

Edinburgh

Dar Al-Arqam Mosque

28 September 2024

The Dar al-Arqam Mosque was originally home to Lauriston Church and was designed by Archibald Scott in 1859 for the United Presbyterian Church. Visitors can observe how the church has been converted into a mosque while maintaining the original beauty of the building.    

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Deaf Action

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Georgian Townhouse with a Church in the rear. Currently headquarters for Deaf Action along with the Blackwood Bar/Cafe on the first floor.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Dovecot Studios

28 September 2024

Dovecot is a world-renowned tapestry studio in the heart of Edinburgh and a landmark centre for contemporary art, craft and design. Established in 1912, Dovecot continues a century-long heritage of collaboration with international artists to make exceptional handwoven tapestries and gun-tufted rugs.

In Person

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Central Library

28 September 2024

Edinburgh Central Library opened to the public in 1890 and right now is undergoing a £1.8 million building works programme. We will be offering two tours of the behind the scenes parts of the building, including our book storage area, our basement and the areas in the Reference Library which are usually closed to the public. Find out more about how our amazing building has adapted to library life throughout the 20th and 21st centuries and some of the challenges we face.

In Person

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Central Mosque

28 - 29 September 2024

29 September 2024

Edinburgh Central Mosque is an iconic building in the heart of Scotland’s capital city. It is Edinburgh’s main mosque and cultural centre.Doors Open Day is an opportunity to explore the Mosque and meet members of the Capital's Muslim community.

In Person

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Chess Club

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Edinburgh Chess Club was established in 1822, its first meeting taking place in November that year at the North British Hotel in Princes Street. It is the longest established club in the UK and the second oldest in the world. The Scotch Gambit was originally played by the club team in the famous correspondence match played versus London between 1824 and 1826. The club has its own premises in the west end of Edinburgh and has Grandmasters and Scottish Chess Champions amongst its members.

In Person

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Futures Institute - The University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The University of Edinburgh has transformed the iconic, category-A listed Old Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh into Edinburgh Futures Institute, a new futures-focused space for learning, research and innovation. The recently completed project is considered one of the largest renovation projects in Europe and is one of the most ambitious and transformative building projects that the University has ever undertaken.

In Person

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Genome Foundry, Michael Swann Building - UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH:

28 September 2024

The Edinburgh Genome Foundry (EGF) is a research facility at the School of Biological Sciences of the University of Edinburgh. EGF specialises in the modular assembly of DNA constructs using a highly automated robotic platform.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Open Workshop

28 September 2024

Edinburgh Open Workshop is a not-for-profit, social enterprise created for the Edinburgh community to have a place to make and get messy. We are built on a pay-as-you-go model – offering membership-based access to a fully equipped wood, metal, paint, and textiles workshop. We also have long term resident maker space, art studios, along with a creative learning and outreach program of classes and workshops.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Printmakers

28 September 2024

28 - 29 September 2024

Edinburgh Printmakers is a centre for printmaking and the visual arts in Fountainbridge. We have a large light-filled printmaking studio, digital studio, darkroom, classes, two galleries, a shop selling original prints and handmade products, hire spaces for meetings, events or learning activities, a café, a courtyard and community garden. All set in Castle Mills, a beautiful heritage building that used to be a rubber factory and a brewery complex.

In Person

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Sheriff and Justice of the Peace Court

28 September 2024

Edinburgh Sheriff Court and Justice of the Peace Court is a modern building which opened to the public in September 1994. It is the largest of the Courts within Lothian and Borders serving a population of approximately 450,000 and after Glasgow, the second busiest Court in Scotland. It houses 18 courtrooms, a cell area and administrative offices.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Trades Fund

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The Edinburgh Trades Fund houses a collection of artefacts pertaining to the ancient Incorporated Trades of Edinburgh. The collection provides a unique insight into the establishment, organisation and importance of the Incorporated Trades in the economic and social life of Edinburgh. This is especially true of the period when the trades had a major role in the governance of the city from the 15th to the early 19th centuries. There are several unique historical treasures intimately concerned with the history of the city, the most important being the Blue Blanket.

In Person

Edinburgh

FloWave Ocean Energy Research Facility, School of Engineering - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

Completed in 2014, the FloWave Ocean Energy Research Facility is the world’s most sophisticated onshore laboratory for replicating ocean conditions and testing ocean technologies. This is one of the largest research infrastructures belonging to the University.

In Person

Edinburgh

Forth Road Bridges Contact and Education Centre

28 September 2024

The Forth Road Bridge is one of the world’s most significant long span suspension bridges. With a span of 1006 metres between the two main towers, it was the fourth longest in the world and the longest outside the United States when it opened. In total, the structure is over 2.5 km long.

In Person

Edinburgh

Gladstone's Land, National Trust for Scotland

28 September 2024

A commercial and trading hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town dating back to 1501, Gladstone’s Land tells the tale of the rich and vibrant history of the building, covering the residents and the businesses they ran out of the building through various different time periods.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Gracemount House ‘The Mansion’ - Gracemount Mansion Development Trust

28 September 2024

Charity to renovate and reopen Gracemount Mansion as a community hub. Meanwhile activities and events are currently offered in grounds and gardens to enhance the wellbeing of local community

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Granton Castle Walled Garden

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The Walled Garden was once attached to Granton Castle, which was built in the late 15th century, rebuilt in 1544, refurbished in the 17th century, and finally demolished in 1921. The Walled Garden survived and was cultivated across the centuries.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Greyfriars Kirkyard - Friends of Greyfriars Kirkyard (Edinburgh)

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

One of the most famous graveyards in the world, mostly due to its celebrated, loyal, fourlegged inhabitant the Skye Terrier Bobby, Greyfriars Kirkyard has become a must-see attraction for visitors to Edinburgh over the last twenty years.

In Person

Edinburgh

HUNTER, Thomas Peck, VC, RM (RM 43 Commando) Memorial - Guided Tour

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

A stone cairn Memorial on a corner site of two roads, Whisky Quay & Ocean Drive. Facing Prince of Wales Dock. Erected in June 2002 by Members & Friends of Royal Marines Association - Edinburgh Branch.

In Person

Edinburgh

Inch House

28 September 2024

Inch House is a traditional 16th/17th century Scottish tower house set in a magnificent surrounding park. Although greatly extended in Scots baronial style in the 1890s by the architects McGibbon & Ross, it maintains much of its original grace and character and many fascinating historical features. Since 1968 it has housed the local community centre.

In Person

Edinburgh

Informatics Forum - University of Edinburgh

29 September 2024

Did you know the Informatics Forum boasts a roof terrace offering panoramic views of the iconic Arthur’s Seat? The University's history in pioneering artificial intelligence and computer science research dates back to 1963 with the establishment of dedicated research groups and has grown to a vibrant hub of activity within the state-of-the-art Informatics Forum and the adjacent Bayes Centre and InSpace. Opened in September 2008 the Informatics Forum, designed as a 'Forum for Interaction', now provides space for over 500 scientists pursuing research in fields such as computer science, artificial intelligence, and cognitive science.

In Person

Edinburgh

Inspace and Institute for Design Informatics - University of Edinburgh

29 September 2024

Inspace is part of the Institute for Design Informatics and is a collaborative hub, commissioning and producing creative activity. Our public programme connects data, research and creative talent. In the Institute for Design Informatics, we fuse design and creative methodologies with data, data science, data-driven technologies and ethical AI. We create prototypes and experiences that make real to people the ideas that underpin the data society, and aim to ensure that new technologies sustain and enhance human values.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Institut Francais D'Ecosse

28 September 2024

In 2017, after having been occupied by the County for almost two centuries, the building also known as the Lothian Chambers became the new seat of the Consulate General of France in Edinburgh and of the Institut Français d’Ecosse. Whilst the Consulate General provides support to French citizens living in Scotland, the French Institute, as part of a worldwide network, promotes French Culture and encourages cultural exchanges with Scotland. It offers a wide range of activities and shows throughout the year, in French and in English: French courses, talks and conferences, activities for kids, live music events, theatre performances, wine tastings, cinema screenings, exhibitions. It has a library with an important book and media collection in French and it is even an official venue at the Fringe! The move also enabled the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and the Edinburgh Art Festival to set up offices in one of the city's most prestigious locations.

In Person

Edinburgh

Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH) - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

The Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH) at the University of Edinburgh is one of the world's premier Institutes for Advanced Study. We support innovative research across the arts, humanities and social sciences through a range of interdisciplinary and international projects and programmes. The Institute, an iconic Victorian tenement building, adjoins 6 Hope Park Square - originally Hope House, an 18th century villa built by Sir Thomas Hope of Rankeillor who gifted the Meadows in front of his house to the city. It was once home to author and critic Dame Rebecca West, and appears in her 1922 novel The Judge as the home of her teenage heroine Ellen Melville. In the mid-20th century, the building was the University’s Department of Artificial Intelligence, developing the world’s first thinking robot to combine a seeing eye and feeling hand, “Freddy I”, whose brother (“Freddy II”) can be seen in the National Museum of Scotland. After IASH took over in 1985, the Institute has featured in three novels by Sir Alexander McCall Smith, connecting the Institute’s homely atmosphere to ground-breaking research in the humanities.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

James Clerk Maxwell Foundation

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Birthplace of James Clerk Maxwell (1831-1879), Scotland's great theoretical physicist, world-renowned and revered, who discovered the theory of electromagnetism, and made major contributions in mathematics, astronomy and engineering. Modern technology - electricity, electronics, radio, television, even mobile phones - are based on his work. In his short life he also: produced a theory of the constitution of the rings of Saturn, confirmed by modern space telescopes projected the first colour photograph determined how to calculate stresses in bridges explained mathematically the behaviour of gas molecules

In Person

Edinburgh

King's Buildings Campus - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

Discover the history and people behind our diverse collection of buildings, explore what happens in our research spaces, and learn about our staff and students who undertake new investigations into how the world (and universe) around us works.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Leith Theatre

28 September 2024

Leith Theatre is a cultural organisation operating from a beautiful and locally significant 1930s semi-derelict heritage building in the most diverse area in the city. We are currently on the Theatres at Risk Register. Our purpose is to preserve and bring this heritage building back to the people as a world-class music and performance venue and innovative community asset.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Lothian Buses Marine Garage

28 September 2024

Our Marine depot is an operational bus garage, with its own Engineering department for bus maintenance. Our depot is one of eight operational locations in the Lothian Group, which provides a safe, reliable and accessible public transport service to over two million customers every week.

In Person

Edinburgh

Magdalen Chapel

28 September 2024

The Chapel is one of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh, containing the only pre-Reformation stained glass windows in Scotland. Originally a Roman Catholic chapel, it became a Protestant place of worship in 1560. It was also the meeting place for over 300 years of the Incorporation of Hammermen. This was basically a guild for all those using metal tools as part of their trades. The Chapel has boards on the walls that record the gifts that the Hammermen made to the Chapel for either its upkeep or for the relief of the poor. These records begin at 1555 and progress to 1813.

In Person

Edinburgh

Mary Erskine School and Ravelston House

28 September 2024

Ravelston House, built c.1800 by Alexander Keith in the late Adam manner, commands magnificent views over Edinburgh and the Pentland Hills. The Victorian wing was added c 1875 and the interior of the house was renovated in Adam-revival style in 1915. The modern buildings, designed by William Kininmonth in 1964, form a cubist-influenced development with white, harled clear-cut geometric shapes set around courtyards to optimise the light. The superb grounds provide excellent sporting facilities and interesting nature trails. www.wsms.edin.sch.uk

In Person

Edinburgh

Maths Week Scotland - National Museum of Scotland

28 September 2024

Maths Week Scotland is a dedicated week that takes place annually in late September/ early October, working with organisations across Scotland to deliver a programme of events and activities that highlight the importance of maths in our everyday lives. The Maths Week Scotland team also delivers online resources and activities all year round.

In Person

Edinburgh

McEwan Hall - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

McEwan Hall was presented to the University in 1897 by William McEwan, both as a ceremonial hall for graduations and as a gift to the people of Edinburgh. Designed by Sir Rowand Anderson, with lavish interiors by William Palin, this iconic, Grade A listed building was reopened in 2017 following a painstaking 3-year, multi-million pound refurbishment, which not only refreshed its intricate paintings and stonework, but also expanded the function of the Hall to meet the modern demands of the University.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Meadows Croquet Club

28 September 2024

The Meadows Croquet Club has three croquet lawns in excellent condition. It is a friendly sporting club, with a 100 members and is run by volunteers. It is the home of National Croquet Centre and hosts Club & National tournaments.

In Person

Edinburgh

Merchiston Tower - Edinburgh Napier University

28 September 2024

The Merchiston Campus is home to Edinburgh Napier's Faculty of Engineering, Computing & Creative Industries as it was to John Napier himself. He was born in 1550 in the Merchiston Tower that still stands in the courtyard. The campus is home to art studios, engineering & design workshops, sound-proofed state-of-the-art music studios, a computer games lab, a news room and film studios and the award winning 500-seat Computing Centre.www.napier.ac.uk

In Person

Edinburgh

Morningside United Church

29 September 2024

The church and halls building is home to an ecumenical congregation of the Church of Scotland and United Reformed Church. It also hosts the Romanian Orthodox Church and Edinburgh Spiders (Ukrainian group making hospital camouflage nets).

In Person

Edinburgh

Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage - Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

28 September 2024

Located in Edinburgh City Centre the museum tells the story of Scottish firefighting from its inception to present day. Explore antique fire engines, engaging interactives, firefighting kit, artefacts and more.

In Person

Edinburgh

National Galleries of Scotland - Granton Art Centre

28 September 2024

28 September 2024

28 September 2024

There are over 5,000 artworks in Scotland’s national art collection which aren’t on display to the public. These artworks are safely stored in the Granton Art Centre. This climate-controlled space holds almost a 7-a-side football pitch sq meterage of art. The artworks are part of our cultural heritage and are looked after by the National Galleries of Scotland for all of us.

In Person

Edinburgh

National Library of Scotland (Causewayside)

28 September 2024

The National Library of Scotland is the largest library in Scotland, with over 34 million items in our collections. Ranging from manuscripts, printed books, newspapers, magazines, sound and film collections, maps and more, our vast collections grow every day. Our building at Causewayside is an iconic piece of modern architecture, which was purpose built to house the library’s collections.

In Person

Edinburgh

National Library of Scotland (George IV Bridge Building)

29 September 2024

The National Library of Scotland is Scotland’s largest library, with over 34 million items in our collections. Ranging from manuscripts, printed books, newspapers, magazines, sound and film collections, maps and more, our vast collections grow every day. We hold many unique and treasured items including the last letter of Mary, Queen of Scots, the Gutenberg Bible, and letters written by Robert Burns and Charles Darwin to name a few.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

National Records of Scotland

28 September 2024

National Records of Scotland (NRS) collects, preserves and produces information about Scotland's people and history and makes it available to inform current and future generations. Our records span from the 12th to the 21st centuries, touching on virtually every aspect of Scottish life. We hold and facilitate access to one of the most varied archive collections of records in Britain.

In Person

Edinburgh

New College - University of Edinburgh

29 September 2024

Founded in 1846, New College occupies an important place in Edinburgh’s iconic skyline. Once the location of the palace of Mary of Guise (mother of Mary Queen of Scots), the College is now home to the University of Edinburgh’s School of Divinity. Treasures include the beautiful Rainy Hall and the New College Library.

In Person

Edinburgh

New Haig House - Poppy Scotland

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

New Haig House Campus comprises a two-story office building that is adjoined to Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory. We have three conference room facilities.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Nicolson Square Edinburgh

28 September 2024

Nicolson Square Edinburgh (NSE), part of Central Hall Venues, is a conference and events venue centrally located in the beautiful and historic capital of Scotland. This venue, Category A Listed, is housed in the City of Edinburgh’s Methodist Church buildings where it was first inaugurated as a public meeting space for the Methodist church in 1815.

In Person

Edinburgh

North and South Leith Parish Church

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Historic Parish Church in the heart of Leith. Magnificent hammer beam roof. Wonderful interior. Many fine features including pulpit, stain glass, christening font.

In Person

Edinburgh

Northern Lighthouse Board

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Built in 1786, as part of James Craig’s New Town development, the original façade of our headquarters is almost unchanged. 84 George Street has been our headquarters since 1832 and is marked by a miniature working lighthouse outside the entrance. It's here where the network of lights for Scotland and the Isle of Man is remotely monitored.

In Person

Edinburgh

Nucleus Building, King's Buildings Campus - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

The Nucleus building is a brand new shared learning, teaching and social hub at the heart of The King’s Buildings campus; it has transformed the student and staff experience, providing brand new, learning, teaching and social spaces for campus users.

In Person

Edinburgh

Out of the Blue Drill Hall

28 September 2024

Out of the Blue Arts and Education Trust’s mission is to provide affordable and appropriate spaces, resources, projects and opportunities for the residents of Edinburgh to be creative in multiple locations. Since 2004 Out of the Blue’s headquarters has been the Out of the Blue Drill Hall, a building of considerable historical and cultural significance to the Leith community.

In Person

Edinburgh

Outer Spaces' Artist Residents: Ocean Point Artspace

28 September 2024

Outer Spaces is a charity collaborating with artists, art collectives, organisations, and commercial property owners, to occupy and activate the nation’s empty commercial spaces. Our aim is to build an alternative infrastructure for the arts by matching artists with empty shops, offices, and industrial space, to produce and exhibit their work, and rehearse, perform, and deliver workshops and events. We also programme residencies and projects to help sustain and support artistic practice and we commission artists to engage audiences with art practice.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Palmerston Place Church of Scotland

28 September 2024

Constructed in the early 1870s when Edinburgh architects Peddie & Kinnear may have sought inspiration for the facade from the Parisian church of Saint-Sulpice. This B-listed church has a surprisingly lofty and beautiful amphitheatre interior, with Peterhead marble columns supporting arches around a clerestory window. The organ was added in 1992 inside the original casing dating from 1902.

In Person

Edinburgh

Pianodrome Warehouse

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Warehouse used for building piano sculptures and housing pianos for adoption

In Person

Edinburgh

Portobello Baptist Church

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Portobello Baptist Church bought its present three story building in 1920 having rented it for a year beforehand. The building was designed by David Bryce as the first of three buildings used as Portobello Town Hall. It was built in 1863 on the site of the first dwelling in the now Portobello area. “Poerto Bello house” was built in 1747 on the “Figate Whins”.

In Person

Edinburgh

Richard Murphy’s house

28 September 2024

Richard Murphy’s own house was completed in 2015 and has since won many awards, not least the RIBA Channel 4 “UK House of the Year” award in 2016. It is an essay in how to make a creative contribution to a historic context, how to be spatially ingenious on a very small site, how to be energy efficient and change with the seasons as well as display Richard Murphy’s many architectural influences absorbed over a life time of practice.

In Person

Edinburgh

Riddle's Court - Scottish Historic Buildings Trust (SHBT)

29 September 2024

Giving new life to Riddle’s Court, a 16th-century courtyard residence in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, was in many ways the largest and most complex restoration projects ever undertaken by SHBT. After the project’s completion, Riddle’s Court was officially re-opened in September 2017. It remains in use as a centre for learning, event space and festival venue.

In Person

Edinburgh

Royal Edinburgh Hospital Community Gardens

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Situated in the grounds of the Royal Edinburgh Hospital and managed by Cyrenians the Community Garden, Woodland and Orchard supports the recovery of hospital patients and green prescribing participants with therapeutic nature-based activities alongside NHS staff and local community wellbeing. Volunteers and buddies give their time to fulfil the gardens aims and objectives as we grow together.

In Person

Edinburgh

Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh

28 September 2024

The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh sits at the heart of the city in our 140-year-old building welcoming over 100,000 people each year. At the Lyceum, we believe that theatre is good for the soul. Led by our Artistic Director David Greig, we bring the best theatre from around the world to Edinburgh and share the best of Scottish theatre with the world. We rehearse in our studio space across the road from the auditorium, and our costumes and sets are designed and built in house at our workshop in Roseburn, Edinburgh. Community is at the heart of what we do. In 2024, our Creative Learning department celebrates 25 years of developing and nurturing talent. Our Youth Theatre programmes have been the starting point for many Scottish actors, fostering newfound confidence and lifelong friendships. We also host 60+ writing groups, technical courses and training.

In Person

Edinburgh

ROYAL MARINES : 360th ANNIVERSARY, 1664 – 2024. Malmaison (Leith) Hotel

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Prestigious, elegant & charming hotel in Leith with a long multi-faceted history dating from approx. late 1890s. Facing Queen’s Dock. The first to be opened in Malmaison UK Group in approx. June 1994. Function Room is MAL3, 45 seating capacity, theatre-style.

In Person

Edinburgh

Royal Observatory Edinburgh

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The Royal Observatory, Edinburgh (ROE) is an astronomical institution located on Blackford Hill in Edinburgh. The site is owned by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). The ROE comprises the UK Astronomy Technology Centre (UK ATC) of STFC, the Institute for Astronomy of the School of Physics and Astronomy of the University of Edinburgh, and the ROE Visitor Centre. The observatory carries out astronomical research and university teaching; design, project management, and construction of instruments and telescopes for astronomical observatories; and teacher training in astronomy and outreach to the public. The ROE Library includes the Crawford Collection of books and manuscripts gifted in 1888 by James Ludovic Lindsay, 26th Earl of Crawford.

In Person

Edinburgh

Royal Pharmaceutical Society Scotland

28 September 2024

The RPS Scotland Office is located in a beautiful Georgian four story town house. The RPS in Scotland supports, promotes and leads the pharmacy profession across all sectors of pharmacy in Scotland. As well as the RPS in Scotland Offices, the building features the RPS Scottish Collection, which explores the history of Scottish Pharmacy. This includes a stunning Victorian drug run, features our display of poison bottles and a collection of historical medicines.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Seafield Wastewater Treatment Works

28 September 2024

How has Edinburgh’s waste been treated in the past? How is it treated today? From sewage being tossed onto the streets, to the Gardyloo ship, to today’s modern treatment methods including how green energy is generated in the process, this is a tour like no other.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

St Andrew Boat Club

29 September 2024

St Andrew Boat Club is based on the Union Canal and has been since 1846. Our boathouse was completed in 2021 and is the largest such facility on the Union Canal. It offers indoor training space as well as space for forty boats and our motto is “Rowing for all”.

In Person

Edinburgh

St Cecilia's Hall - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

St Cecilia's Hall is Scotland's oldest concert hall and home to the University of Edinburgh's collection of musical instruments. Built by the Edinburgh Musical Society and designed by Robert Mylne, this Georgian jewel held its first concert in 1763. Surrounding the Concert Room are 4 galleries that display over 500 musical instruments spanning five centuries of musical heritage and history.

In Person

Edinburgh

St Giles’ Cathedral

28 September 2024

St Giles’ Cathedral, founded in 1124 by King David I, has been a working church for almost 900 years. A backdrop to Scotland’s turbulent religious history, it has seen the seeds of civil war sown and been John Knox’s parish church during the Reformation. It is still an important centre for civic services such as the Kirking of the Parliament and services for Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

St Mary's Star Of The Sea

29 September 2024

A Pugin & Son designed church in a classic style constructed between 1852-54. One of the side altars is dedicated to Mary Star of the Sea, the patron saint of Leith since the 12th Century. The Church has over 20 stained glass windows, and a new baptismal font by local sculptress Graciella Ainsworth.

In Person

Edinburgh

St Michael and All Saints Church

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

St Michael and All Saints Church is a Grade A listed building designed by the Sir Robert Rowand Anderson. Explore stained glass windows and allegorical figures. Built in 1867, this Church features fine altarpieces by William Burges (1867) and C E Kemp (1889) and excellent stained glass by William Wailes, Clayton Bell & Ninian Comper. In this year of Global connections of particular note is the 16th/17th century Spanish Pulpit with carved allegorical figures at the corners.

In Person

Edinburgh

St Michael’s Parish Church

28 September 2024

29 - 29 July 2024

We are a Church of Scotland Parish church on Slateford Road in Edinburgh and have served the local community since 1883. Designed by Glasgow architect, John Honeyman. The nave, which is 130feet long, has reputedly the longest aisle in Edinburgh.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

St Peter's Catholic Church

29 September 2024

Italianate Catholic Church with exquisite stained glass windows with links to Oscar Wilde

In Person

Edinburgh

St Vincent’s Chapel

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

St Vincent’s Chapel is a Listed Category B building within the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site, and within the New Town Conservation Area. It is located in Stockbridge, immediately opposite William Playfair’s much larger St Stephen’s Theatre (former church).

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Starbank Park - Friends of Starbank Park

29 September 2024

Starbank Park is a stunning walled garden, a ‘Victorian Park’ which has Starbank House central to its design and history and was once the home of the famous Victorian Prime Minister, William Ewart Gladstone’s aunt and uncle. An eminent neighbour of the park was Sir James Young Simpson of anaesthesia fame.

In Person

Edinburgh

Stewart's Melville College

28 September 2024

The College, by David Rhind, opened in 1855 as Daniel Stewart's Hospital for 50 destitute boys. In 1870 the Edinburgh Merchant Company turned the Hospital into a fee-paying day school and changed the name to Daniel Stewart?s College. The old courtyard at the north side of the building was eventually roofed over, and reopened in 2007 as a Performing Arts Centre. Additionally, there are other fine rooms such as the Library, formerly the Chapel.

In Person

Edinburgh

Talbot Rice Gallery - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Talbot Rice Gallery is the public art gallery of the University of Edinburgh. There are two main gallery spaces - a 19th century former natural history museum in classic Georgian style and a contemporary white cube. Talbot Rice Gallery is dedicated to exploring how the University of Edinburgh can contribute to contemporary art production today and into the future. Solo exhibitions provide international artists with access to University research and collections, whilst conceptual group exhibitions foreground key political and social issues.

In Person

Edinburgh

The Bayes Centre - University of Edinburgh

29 September 2024

At the Bayes Centre, world-leading data science and artificial intelligence teams are shaping a better future for everyone. Working with partners, we are a proving ground for data-driven innovation to solve real-world problems through scientific enquiry, inspiring design and industrial collaboration. The £45 million building, located at the heart of the University’s Central Campus, was officially opened in October 2018. The Centre’s impressive space is open in design, providing interactive places for occupants to foster relationships.

In Person

Edinburgh

The Cockburn Association

28 September 2024

The Cockburn Association is one of the oldest conservation and amenity advocacy organisations in the world. Its offices are hidden down the narrow Trunk’s Close, in the cellars of Moubray House, one of the oldest buildings on the Royal Mile.

2024 Theme

In Person

Edinburgh

The Dean Gardens - Dean Gardens Committee

29 September 2024

The Dean Gardens are the largest of the four 'pleasure grounds' to border the Water of Leith and they are the second-biggest private amenity gardens in Edinburgh encompassing over seven acres. They feature a series of planted slopes and level lawn areas with many delightful viewpoints over the Dean Valley. The lay-out of pathways, lawns and the wooden pavilion are virtually unchanged from the original Victorian era plans but the tennis court has been replaced with a well equipped children's play area.

In Person

Edinburgh

The Georgian House (National Trust for Scotland)

29 September 2024

The Georgian House, a grand New Town house in Charlotte Square, was designed by celebrated classical architect Robert Adam in 1790. Three floors have been authentically restored and furnished to reflect the luxurious lifestyle of the first owners, the Lamont family, who moved in in 1796. See also the fabulous kitchen and servant’s room in the basement. Special Exhibition Ramsay and Edinburgh featuring an 18th century dress and portraits.

In Person

Edinburgh

The Grand Lodge of Scotland, Freemasons' Hall

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The most imposing work of A Hunter Crawford, 1910-12, with a Renaissance facade and a grand interior.

In Person

Edinburgh

The Grant Institute - University of Edinburgh

28 September 2024

The Grant Institute’s Cockburn Museum holds an extensive collection of geological specimens and historical objects which reflect Edinburgh’s prominent position within geological sciences. Collections include minerals, rocks and fossils as well as maps, photographs and archives. A variety of activities, suitable for all ages, will explore topics from fossils to volcanoes.

In Person

Edinburgh

The Heart of Newhaven Community

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

We are developing the former school, now known as .The Heart’, as an intergenerational community hub. We have three themes, identified by community consultation: culture and heritage, learning and enterprise and community well being with a common thread of intergenerational practice.

In Person

Edinburgh

The Learning Hub at Harmeny School

29 September 2024

Nestled within a 35-acre estate the Learning Hub, which opened in October 2023, provides a base for Harmeny’s highly experiential and vocational curriculum and has enabled the charity to expand its specialist care and education services up to the age of 18. Designed by Loader Monteith and Studio SJM Architects, the Learning Hub has been carefully designed as a supportive and trauma responsive learning environment for young people who have experienced early years trauma.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

The Melting Pot

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The Melting Pot is Scotland's Centre for Social Innovation. We operate a coworking space filled with charities, NGOs, social enterprises and businesses for good, all of whom are working towards a higher social or environmental purpose. Our space is a place with purpose, designed to maximise connection across sectors.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

The National Robotarium - Heriot Watt University

28 September 2024

Situated at Heriot-Watt University campus on the outskirts of Edinburgh, the National Robotarium is a world-leading centre for Robotics and Artificial Intelligence. Opening in September 2022, the National Robotarium creates innovative solutions to global challenges, working directly with industry to research, test and develop robotic, AI and automated systems that have a positive impact on the economy and society.

Edinburgh

The New Town Churches (formerly St Andrew's and St George's West Church and Greenside Church)

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Our building at 13 George Street is Edinburgh's first church in the original New Town built in 1784.  It has been described as an architectural gem of the New Town.  Our building at 1b Royal Terrace is Gothic and set among Playfair's great terraces in this part of the city. Robert Louis Stevenson referred to it as 'the church on the hill'.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

The Nook and Crannie Gallery - Edinburgh Old Town Development Trust

28 September 2024

We are a small gallery based in a converted phone box right in the heart of Edinburgh! We exhibit the work of up and coming artists and community groups, as part of Edinburgh Old Town Development Trust.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

The Old Printworks – Simpson & Brown

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The Old Printworks was originally designed as a grain store before being bought in the 1960s by a prominent Edinburgh surgeon. He set about developing the building with the intention of creating a creative community of like-minded individuals and companies. Today the building is again occupied by a number of creative companies including the open plan design studio of Simpson & Brown, a practice of architects, heritage consultants, and archaeologists working on projects throughout the UK and overseas.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

The Parish Church of St Cuthbert

28 September 2024

The Parish Church of St Cuthbert is the oldest site of Christian Worship in Edinburgh. The current building is the 7th church on the site. On the site is the Memorial Chapel, where Agatha Christie remarried in 1930, and the stunningly ornate Sanctuary with Tiffany window, all in the middle of our Burke and Hare Era Graveyard.

In Person

Edinburgh

The Scotch Whisky Experience

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

The Scotch Whisky Experience was once the Castlehill School. Since 1988 a fascinating and sympathetic conversion of the building has created a fully accessible experience for guided whisky tours, private group dining and the well-loved Amber restaurant.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

The Scottish Genealogy Society

28 September 2024

Founded in 1953, the Society moved into 15 Victoria Terrace in 1991. The internal walls of the property are from two phases of building: vaulted arches dating from c.1830-1840 and the cellars of tenements on Johnston Terrace in 1868-9. Over time it has been used as an ARP centre during WWII and then occupied by a confectionery manufacturer, a scientific equipment supplier, a pottery & printmaking studio, a restaurant and then home to The Scottish Genealogy Society.

In Person

Edinburgh

The Supreme Courts of Scotland

28 September 2024

The High Court of Justiciary and Court of Session are collectively known as the Supreme Courts of Scotland. The Court of Session is the Royal Court of Scotland, hearing civil cases in the name of His Majesty, the King, and was created in 1532. The High Court of Justiciary hears criminal cases was created in its current form in 1672. The jurisdiction of the Supreme Courts extends to the whole of Scotland.

Edinburgh

The Victor Murphy Trust

28 September 2024

29 - 10 September 2024

The Victor Murphy Trust SC037409 (Formally The Victor Murphy Memorial Trust) is a Registered Charity In Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. The Trust was given Charitable Status through OSCR,(The Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator ) on August 2006, the Trust aim is to promote the Arts and Craft movement in Scotland. To contribute for a wider understanding of our society through our activities and staging various exhibitions of international Arts and Crafts.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Thompson Tower - Dr Neils Garden

29 September 2024

The Thomson Tower is a hexagonal two storey tower. Built in 1825 for the Duddingston Curling Society by the famous Edinburgh architect William Playfair. Set on the banks of Duddingston Loch, within the beautiful, award winning, Dr Neils Garden. The Thomson Tower consists of an interpretation centre to the Garden and Village in the Upper Chamber, and a museum of Curling in the Lower Chamber

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

Trinity House Maritime Museum - Historic Environment Scotland

28 September 2024

29 September 2024

Once the headquarters of the Incorporation of Mariners and Shipmasters, Trinity House is home to a treasure trove of fascinating maritime memorabilia, artworks and curiosities collected by sailors from Leith throughout the centuries and from all the corners of the globe.

In Person

2024 Theme

Edinburgh

U.S. Consulate General Edinburgh

28 September 2024

The U.S. Consulate General has settled in its current location at 3 Regent Terrace since 1951. Regent Terrace is a residential street of classical townhouses built between 1826 and 1833.

In Person

Edinburgh

Victorian Schoolroom - History of Education Centre

28 September 2024

29 - 29 July 2024

Inside the History of Education Centre is a fully functioning Victorian classroom with wooden desks, blackboards, finger-stocks, and the tawse, as well as a museum room full of Victoriana including a kitchen range and a variety of household items, most of which can be handled. Enjoy a Victorian-style lesson in the classroom and explore the exhibitions and household and other items in the museum room.

In Person

Edinburgh

William Purves Funeral Directors- Oakvale Funeral Home

28 September 2024

21st century funeral home opens the doors of its Victorian villa “Oakvale” in the heart of Edinburgh. Heritage enthusiasts can see Oakvale in its modern splendour. Originally conceived as a cathedral, it's build began in the 1840’s. Over the years it's been used as a private residence, a convent and junior school. In 1995 Oakvale settled as a modern funeral home; head office of William Purves, Scotland’s largest group of independent funeral directors.