Museum on the Mound Edinburgh
Discover the history of money and banking in Scotland at this free, engaging museum on Edinburgh's iconic Mound.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Museum on the Mound Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the history of money and banking in Scotland at this free, engaging museum on Edinburgh's iconic Mound.
"A free museum about history of money. Surely recommend if you really wanna know the history of money and finances in the UK."
🎯 Free Admission Gem
Enjoy this fascinating museum without spending a penny! Donations are welcome.
⏰ Allow an Hour
You'll need about 60 minutes to fully explore the exhibits and try the interactive games.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The £1 Million Display
Main Exhibition Hall
See a staggering amount of cash in a single display case – a truly unique sight!

Scotland's Oldest Banknote
Banking History Exhibit
Discover the origins of Scottish currency and its evolution through historical artifacts.

Interactive Safe Cracking
Security Exhibit
Test your skills and try to crack the safe – a fun, engaging challenge for all ages!
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Rewards
Location & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Gem
Enjoy this fascinating museum without spending a penny! Donations are welcome.
⏰ Allow an Hour
You'll need about 60 minutes to fully explore the exhibits and try the interactive games.
📸 Evening Ambiance
Visit in the evening for beautiful city views and fewer people.
💰 See £1 Million!
Don't miss the impressive display of one million pounds in cash.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Gem
Enjoy this fascinating museum without spending a penny! Donations are welcome.
⏰ Allow an Hour
You'll need about 60 minutes to fully explore the exhibits and try the interactive games.
📸 Evening Ambiance
Visit in the evening for beautiful city views and fewer people.
💰 See £1 Million!
Don't miss the impressive display of one million pounds in cash.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Engaging trails and interactive exhibits make it great for families.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Museum on the Mound for its fascinating exhibits on money and banking history, especially the unique £1 million display and interactive safe-cracking game. It's highly recommended as a free, educational, and surprisingly engaging experience, perfect for families and those seeking off-the-beaten-path attractions. Some find it less engaging if they aren't interested in finance, but most agree it's a worthwhile hour-long visit.
"I had such a great time at Museum on the Mound! It’s not your typical tourist attraction, there were hardly any crowds, and that made it feel very peaceful and personal. The collection of old money and banking history is fascinating, and it’s laid out in a way that’s easy to follow, even if you’re not an expert. There’s also a fun little game you can play during your visit, which I found exciting. Its not every day a museum lets you win something! I’d highly recommend stopping by if you want something off the beaten path that’s still fun, educational, and surprisingly interactive."
Fikha Rahmadina
"A free museum about history of money. Surely recommend if you really wanna know the history of money and finances in the UK. I thoroughly enjoyed the museum but its boring for some people. Allow yourself a good 1 hour there and do try cracking the safe open. The staff is friendly as well. It’s all free so give it a try."
UK Photo Journey
"Great free-entry museum. You learn some interesting things about the history of money and banking in Scotland and the UK, but also some cool facts about other countries. It's worth a visit. Put aside about 1 hour of your time if you intend to go in."
Cristina Berci
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Museum on the Mound is located on The Mound, a central street connecting the Old and New Towns. It's easily walkable from Princes Street and the Royal Mile.
You can also use public transport to the city center and walk from there. The nearest major transport hubs are Edinburgh Waverley train station and various bus stops along Princes Street.On-street parking in central Edinburgh can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk. If you must drive, look for city center car parks like the one at Waverley Station or on St James Street.
Look for The Mound, a prominent street situated between the National Gallery and the University of Edinburgh's School of Divinity. The museum is housed within the historic Bank of Scotland building on this street.
Yes, numerous bus routes stop in the city center, close to The Mound. Check Lothian Buses for specific routes and schedules that serve Princes Street or George Street.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the museum, many central Edinburgh attractions are working towards better accessibility. It's advisable to contact them in advance if you have specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Museum on the Mound is completely free! While there's no charge, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the museum.
No, advance booking is not typically required as entry is free. You can usually just walk in. However, for special events or group visits, it's always best to check their official website.
Opening hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official Museum on the Mound website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, the museum is very child-friendly with interactive exhibits and trails designed to engage younger visitors.
Absolutely! While entry is free, donations are highly encouraged and appreciated to support the museum's operations and exhibits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the fascinating history of money, banking, and finance in Scotland and beyond. Highlights include Scotland's oldest banknote and an impressive display of £1 million in cash.
Most visitors find that 1 to 1.5 hours is sufficient to explore the exhibits thoroughly and enjoy the interactive elements.
Yes, the museum offers interactive experiences, including a popular safe-cracking game that visitors of all ages enjoy.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas within the museum.
The 'game' often referred to is the interactive safe-cracking challenge, where visitors can try to open a safe. It's a fun and engaging activity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Museum on the Mound itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, its central location means there are numerous dining options nearby on Princes Street, George Street, and the Royal Mile.
You'll find a wide variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants within a short walking distance. From quick bites to sit-down meals, there are options to suit all tastes and budgets.
While there isn't a dedicated dining area, it's generally best to consume outside food before or after your visit. Check with the museum directly for their specific policy on this.
📸 📸 Photography
The £1 million display is a unique photo opportunity. The building itself, the historic Bank of Scotland headquarters, is also architecturally stunning, especially when lit up at night.
Personal photography is usually permitted, but it's wise to look for signage indicating any restrictions on flash photography or specific items.
Yes, the museum is located on The Mound, and the surrounding area is beautifully lit in the evenings, offering great opportunities for cityscapes and architectural shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great way to break up a day of sightseeing with an activity that's both educational and enjoyable. The manageable size means you won't exhaust little ones, and the free entry makes it an easy choice for a budget-conscious family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's a perfect addition to a day of exploring other free attractions in Edinburgh, such as the National Galleries or walking the Royal Mile. The museum provides a substantial experience for zero cost, offering a rich insight into Scottish financial history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Money in Scotland
Beyond just currency, the exhibits delve into the broader history of banking, investment, and insurance. Learn about the establishment of key financial institutions and their impact on Scottish society and economy. It's a chance to understand how finance has shaped the nation over centuries, presented in an accessible and engaging manner.
One of the most striking displays is the sheer volume of cash, with a chance to see what £1 million looks like in a single, secure case. This visual representation provides a tangible sense of financial scale and is a popular talking point for visitors.
Exploring The Mound
Architecturally, The Mound is impressive, featuring grand buildings like the National Gallery of Scotland and the University of Edinburgh's School of Divinity. The museum itself is housed in the former Bank of Scotland headquarters, a building with its own historical significance.
Visiting The Mound, especially in the evening, provides a beautiful backdrop for photography. The area is well-lit, enhancing the grandeur of the buildings and offering a lovely ambiance for an evening stroll.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit