Venue Description

Home to one of the greatest art collections in the world, the National is situated in the heart of Edinburgh and is one of Scotland’s top free visitor attractions. Experience artworks from some of the greatest artists of all time including Titian, Rembrandt and Constable. Dive deeper into Scottish history with painters like Raeburn and Traquair. Enjoy food and drink at the gallery café and restaurant and pick up a stylish memento from the shop. Whether you are new to the gallery, doing research or just passing by, the National welcomes everyone to explore artworks, discover new things or just simply take time to unwind.

Accessibility

The main entrance of the National is situated in East Princes Street Gardens. From the paved area of the mound precinct, it is accessed via a step-free, gentle winding pathway measuring approximately 200 metres, or via a flight of 29 steps. There are two smaller, ramped entrances on the mound precinct itself, adjacent to the drop-off point. The accessible rear entrance of the Academy building has a lift that can take you directly down to level 1 information point and facilities. The mound entrance leads directly into the historic National Gallery building on Level 3. The partial Changing Places toilet is located on this level. There is step-free access to all areas in the gallery. There is a lift to all floors.

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: https://www.nationalgalleries.org/visit/accessibility

Accessible Performances

You will find a range of regularly scheduled events and resources created with and for visitors with specific access needs. Community and access groups are invited to book free guided or self-guided visits all year round. Please visit our website for more details. Portable hearing loops are available at all public talks and lectures and for booked group visits.

Toilets

There are accessible toilets on levels 1, 2 and 3 of the National. There is a partial Changing Places Toilet on level 3. This is open 10am-5pm, a key is not required. This facility has all the required facilities and floorspace (13.54m2), but as it’s in a listed building, it is slightly too narrow to be a full Changing Places toilet. The room width is 1.9m at the narrowest point.

Staff

Most staff have received equalities awareness training, dementia awareness training, visual impairment awareness training, deaf awareness training and BSL training.

Assistance dog facilities

Assistance dog exercise facilities

The nearest toilet area for assistance dogs is located in Princes Street Gardens. Please ask staff for directions. Please ensure that any waste is disposed of in nearby dustbins.

Other assistance dog facilities

Guide dogs, hearing dogs and assistance dogs are welcome at all of our galleries. Emotional support dogs with an identifying lead or harness, are also welcome. Water bowls for assistance dogs are available. Please ask front of house staff for assistance.