On Chambers Street in Edinburgh’s Old Town, the National Museum of Scotland brings Scottish history together with collections on science, technology, nature, art, design, fashion and world cultures. Its galleries fill both a Victorian building and a modern one, with the light-filled Grand Gallery providing a striking starting point. Look for the Lewis Chessmen, Dolly the sheep and the large natural-history displays, then head to the rooftop terrace for views across Edinburgh on a clear day. Entry to the museum is free, and hands-on exhibits make it a useful stop for families as well as history and science enthusiasts.
Two buildings, many subjects
The museum brings together the former Museum of Scotland and Royal Scottish Museum, which merged in 2006. Its collections are spread across a modern building and a Victorian one. Together, they cover Scottish history and archaeology, the natural world, science and technology, art and design, fashion, and cultures from around the world.
The Victorian building’s Grand Gallery is a natural place to orient yourself. Its high pillars, ironwork and glass roof give the space a different character from the adjoining contemporary galleries. A large installation called Window on the World fills part of the gallery with hundreds of objects. From here, you can move into themed displays or cross to the building focused on Scotland’s story.
Scottish history and objects from beyond Scotland
The Scottish galleries follow the country’s story from its geological beginnings through to modern times. Displays include archaeological collections and objects connected with medieval Scotland, as well as material on the country’s social and industrial history. The collections also include jewellery commissioned by Mary, Queen of Scots, and steam engines linked to Scotland’s Industrial Revolution.
Other galleries look outward to the natural world and cultures across the globe. Displays include objects from ancient Egypt, East Asia and the Islamic world. The Lewis Chessmen, carved in the 12th century from walrus ivory and whales’ teeth, are among the objects to seek out. Their detailed figures offer a close look at medieval craftsmanship.
Science, nature and family displays
The science and technology galleries explore inventions and discoveries, with interactive displays that invite visitors to take part. Some exhibits focus on Scottish contributions to science and technology. The natural-history galleries bring together animal specimens and displays about the planet, with hands-on elements that can help younger visitors engage with the subject.
The museum’s best-known objects range across very different fields. Dolly the sheep was the first mammal cloned from an adult cell, and her display sits within the museum’s wider natural-history collection. Other highlights include a large dinosaur skeleton and the skull of Moby the whale. Families can also look for interactive areas and family trails as they plan a route through the galleries.
Architecture and views
The buildings are part of the visit. In the Victorian section, the Grand Gallery’s glass ceiling brings natural light into the atrium, while cast-iron details and tall columns draw the eye upward. The modern building has a distinct contemporary design and houses galleries telling Scotland’s story. Moving between the two gives the museum a clear architectural contrast.
The rooftop terrace is on the seventh floor and looks out across Edinburgh, including the Old Town and Edinburgh Castle. The views are best on a clear day. If you want to see the city from above, include the terrace in your route rather than leaving the building without checking whether it is accessible during your visit.
FAQ
Is the National Museum of Scotland free to enter?
General admission is free. Special exhibitions may charge an entrance fee.
How long should I spend at the National Museum of Scotland?
Allow at least three hours to explore the collection comfortably.
What are the museum’s highlights?
Look for the Grand Gallery, the Lewis Chessmen, Dolly the sheep, the natural-history displays and the rooftop terrace.
Does the National Museum of Scotland have a rooftop terrace?
Yes. The terrace is on the seventh floor and has views across Edinburgh, including the Old Town and Edinburgh Castle.
