National Galleries Scotland: National

(12/21/25) sadly only got to skim through the rooms in the last 15 mins before it closed but i'm definitely coming back the next time i'm in edinburgh. gorgeous paintings and rooms. really friendly staff too, shoutout to argus who not only indulged my slightly unusual request to write in my book (after telling me i had 5 mins left there :ppp) but i also had a nice chat with x

Housed in an absolutely stunning, purpose built home, the Portraits are beautifully displayed. This collection is housed over 3 floors and around an inner space. It was very pleasing to see the care and attention that has been put into curating the works, each one given its own space. I enjoyed the Alfred Buckham display and also the modern portraits of Scots such as Doddie Weir, Billy Connolly and Carol Ann Duffy. There’s a good lift perfect for wheelchairs, buggies etc, there are lots of lockers for storing coats and bags, good toilet facilities, a small shop and a very busy cafe. Did I mention it’s free?!!

I had a truly wonderful visit to the National Galleries Scotland: Portrait on 27/02/2026. The experience was absolutely amazing and exceeded my expectations. The gallery is beautifully presented, with stunning architecture and a calm, welcoming atmosphere. The portraits are fascinating and thoughtfully displayed, allowing visitors to connect with Scotland’s rich history, culture, and inspiring individuals. The overall environment was very pleasant, peaceful, and enjoyable. Everything was well organized, and it was easy to explore and appreciate each exhibition. It was both educational and memorable. I highly recommend visiting National Galleries Scotland: Portrait to anyone who appreciates art, history, and beautiful surroundings. It was a very nice experience, and I look forward to visiting again in the future.