Venue Description

This neo-Gothic palace is a loveletter to Scotland. A hidden gem right at the heart of Edinburgh, it was designed by Sir Robert Rowand Anderson as a shrine for Scotland’s heroes and heroines. It opened to the public in 1889 as the world’s first purpose-built portrait gallery. The art within tells you stories of the land and its people. Discover familiar faces of Scotland - contemporary portraits of pop culture icons like Billy Connolly, Emeli Sandé and Tilda Swinton sit alongside pioneers in science, sport and famous historical figures such as Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns and Charles Edward Stuart. The gallery is decorated in elaborate murals and sculptural embellishments inside and out. Take time to look up at the Zodiac ceiling in the world-famous Great Hall and reflect and relax in Café Portrait.

Accessibility

There is a ramp at the front of the building; staff will assist with opening the front door. 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

Access Statement

Access Statement Link: https://www.accessibilityguides.org/content/scottish-national-portrait-gallery-0

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.

Toilets

There is an accessible toilet on the ground level near the main entrance.

Staff

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

Assistance dog facilities

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. We can provide water bowls for them, please ask staff for assistance. The nearest toilet area for assistance dogs is located in a small courtyard, Finlay Court, 41 metres from the main entrance. Please ask staff for directions. Please ensure that any waste is disposed of in nearby dustbins.