Overview

Last year the collective opened their new space at the top Calton Hill, one of Edinburgh’s best loved tourist attractions. I will be up front, although I believe there are ramps the whole way up to the top, they may be steep and therefore not too accessible. I am unsure if you are able to drive up to the hill now, so you may want to check this out if you fancy visiting. In saying that once at the Collective it is really accessible with appropriate ramps and stunning views. The staff were really happy and would answer any question that you may have.

Transport & Parking

I walked up from the entrance beside Greenside Parish Church off Royal Terrance, this is a steep slope and took me just under 5 minutes to get up. At regular intervals drainage is across the path, this could be tricky for some people. Latest bus stops are on London Road, or regent road.

Access

In the galley itself I thought the access was brilliant as ramps where incorporated with existing steps. The different galleries (I think there’s three different rooms/gallery spaces) are not overly big, so space might be tight depending how busy the rooms are and what’s being exhibited. The views are the reason that many people visit the gallery, and I love the way that the ground was flat and you had uninterrupted views across to the castle and the east of the city (as well to the forth bridges, if you’re lucky) and it doesn’t matter what height you are.

Toilets

There are toilets below the restaurant called The Lookout, however there is a step up to them. However in the restaurant I noticed there was an accessible toilet. I did not use the restaurant or that toilet.

Staff

Very friendly and happy to be there.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

The shop had a good stock of interesting stuff, better than the normal tourist tat you find in the city. There is also a coffee/takeaway stand at the entrance if you fancy a hot drink and or a biscuit etc.

Photos

Venue Manager responded to this review

Thanks for our first Euan's Guide review pavement boy! We're pleased you enjoyed your visit. Blue badge holders can now park right outside Collective having driven up the access road which begins next to the Royal High School entrance on Regent Road. Taxis can also pick-up and drop off from our gate using this road. We do have fully accessible toilets in the new Hillside exhibition space and the restored City Observatory. I've updated our Euan's Guide listing now so hopefully the info is clearer. Best wishes, Collective.