Hotels near Scottish National Gallery

The Scottish National Gallery occupies a pair of neoclassical buildings on The Mound, the artificial earth bridge linking the Old and New Towns. It holds Scotland's national collection of Western art from the Renaissance to the late 19th century - Botticelli, Velazquez, Vermeer, Monet, and an extraordinary group of Scottish masters including Henry Raeburn and Allan Ramsay.

A 2023 redevelopment opened a series of light-filled new Scottish galleries on the lower ground floor, with a dedicated entrance from Princes Street Gardens. The thirty rooms hold most of Scotland's celebrated works, including Raeburn's The Skating Minister (which has become a national emblem) and Wilkie's Pitlessie Fair. Entry to the permanent collection is free; only temporary exhibitions charge.

Pro Tip: Use the lower garden entrance opposite the Ross Fountain to enter directly into the Scottish galleries - far quieter than the Princes Street side. Allow 90 minutes for a focused visit on the Scottish wing alone.