Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern One), Edinburgh - a large room with a staircase and paintings on the walls
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Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern One) Edinburgh

4.6
·5k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore world-class modern art for free, set amidst a sculpture park and scenic riverside walks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more contemplative

CrowdLow
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Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern One), Edinburgh - a large room with a staircase and paintings on the walls

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern One) Edinburgh

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more contemplative

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore world-class modern art for free, set amidst a sculpture park and scenic riverside walks.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"A poetic blend of modern creativity, nature, and history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry for All!

Enjoy permanent collections for free! Donations are welcome to support this amazing venue.

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Water of Leith Walk

Take the beautiful walkway from Dean Village to the galleries.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sculpture Park

Sculpture Park

Outdoor grounds

Wander through a beautiful park dotted with striking contemporary sculptures, offering a unique outdoor art experience.

Paolozzi's Studio

Paolozzi's Studio

Modern Two

Step into the recreated studio of Eduardo Paolozzi, a vibrant space filled with his eclectic creations and artistic process.

The American Dream 2020

The American Dream 2020

Modern One

A poignant and visceral artwork by Grayson Perry that offers a powerful commentary on contemporary American society.

Reddit
Raffaello Sanzio Drawing

Raffaello Sanzio Drawing

Modern Two (Print Room)

See a rare, up-close view of a drawing by the Renaissance master Raffaello Sanzio.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Impact

Enjoy world-class modern art without breaking the bank! Both Modern One and Modern Two offer free admission to their permanent collections. Plan your visit to maximize your experience, especially if you're on a budget. Reddit

Art & Nature Walk

Combine your art exploration with a scenic stroll. The Water of Leith walkway connects Dean Village to the galleries, offering beautiful views. Consider starting at the galleries and walking towards Stockbridge for a delightful day out. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more contemplative
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Cafe buzz, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer weekends
Why
Enjoy sculpture park outdoors
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One of the most beautiful rooms I’ve ever seen: Scottish National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh. @Son de Flor ✨ Hawthorn dress that I designed #medievaltiktok #darkcottagecore #whimsimedieval #whimsigoth #medieval #arthistory
@aclotheshorse
85.3K likes • 461K views

🎯 Free Entry for All!

Enjoy permanent collections for free! Donations are welcome to support this amazing venue. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Water of Leith Walk

Take the beautiful walkway from Dean Village to the galleries. Reddit

From Anthony Gormley’s sentinel statue at the Port o’ Leith Distillery to half a Gormley at the Museum of Modern Art. And a whole lot of beauty in between . . . #LouiseBourgeois #AlisonWatt #norahneilsongray #eduardopaolozzi #charlesjencks #nationalgalleriesofscotland
ruthlesley
42 likes • 0 views
Such an energizing visit to @nationalgalleriesscot Print Room at Modern Two with lovely and incredibly knowledgeable Hannah Brocklehurst ❣️ Giddy to see a drawing by Raffaello Sanzio up close and not to mention the wee hand painted replicas of the entire collection made by NGS old Director in the 1930s! Archives give the same thrill of when your grandma invites you to look through her closet of ...
_byilaria
38 likes • 0 views

☕ Cafe Delights

Don't miss the cafe for excellent coffee and scones, though it can be pricey. Reddit

🎨 Kids' Art Zone

Engage little ones in the dedicated art space with drawing materials. Reddit

Two or three from Resistance How protest shaped Britain and photography shaped protest Bravo @benharmanben and team for this hang! 🖤 Photos by: Jill Posener, Glynis Nelsen, Vanley Burke.
studionicolajeffs
30 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry for All!

Enjoy permanent collections for free! Donations are welcome to support this amazing venue. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Water of Leith Walk

Take the beautiful walkway from Dean Village to the galleries. Reddit

☕ Cafe Delights

Don't miss the cafe for excellent coffee and scones, though it can be pricey. Reddit

🎨 Kids' Art Zone

Engage little ones in the dedicated art space with drawing materials. Reddit

🗺️ Grab a Paper Guide

Enhance your exploration of the sculpture garden with a guide from reception. Reddit

🖼️ Check Exhibition Schedules

See what special exhibitions are on, like the Ray Harryhausen showcase. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art for its impressive collection, free admission, and beautiful setting. The combination of thought-provoking art, a lovely sculpture park, and the scenic Water of Leith walkway makes for a highly recommended experience. While the cafe can be a bit pricey, the overall value and quality of the visit are exceptional, with many highlighting its family-friendly atmosphere and inspiring exhibitions.

"I’ve just stepped out of the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art in Edinburgh, and it felt like walking through both a museum and a living park. Inside, the galleries were filled with bold colors and thought-provoking works; outside, the wide lawns and sculpture gardens were simply beautiful, a perfect place to chill under the sun. What makes it even more special is its location—right beside Dean Cemetery, where history and memory rest quietly. The contrast between the modern creativity of the gallery and the timeless stillness of the cemetery made the whole visit feel poetic, as if art, nature, and history were all part of the same conversation.
2025.08.17"

Kaileton Huang

"Always a good place to visit sometimes the art is very accessible sometimes challenging but thought provoking. If you have children check the website as often things for them. Nice room to sit and look at art books provided, great cafe, not cheap but excellent and I hope the profits help support this excellent venue"

Sonia Hawes

"An amazing gallery with an awesome cafe.

It has a few floors of galleries and a space for kids to practice art or play in the open space. There is a log that the kids can draw with or sketch with.

One can go on the trail between the two galleries.

Also there's a nice trail through the woods right next to the galleries.

The cafe there has the best scones in Edinburgh. You must go there for coffee and scones.

Had a lovely experience in the outside sitting area beautiful and pleasant.

It has a free entry.

Highly recommended to do it with kids."

Mrigank Mehrotra

What People Like

Free entry to collections
Diverse modern art
Beautiful sculpture park

What People Dislike

Cafe can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the galleries by bus, taxi, or a scenic walk. Many visitors enjoy walking along the Water of Leith walkway from Dean Village, which is a beautiful route. Reddit Buses are also a convenient option, with several routes stopping nearby. If driving, there is parking available, though it can get busy.

Yes, it's a very pleasant walk along the Water of Leith walkway from Dean Village to the galleries. It's a popular and scenic route that many visitors recommend. Reddit

Absolutely! You can continue your walk from the galleries towards Stockbridge, a charming neighbourhood with shops and cafes. It's a lovely way to explore more of Edinburgh. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the galleries. However, it can get busy, especially during peak times, so arriving early or considering public transport is advisable.

Modern One and Modern Two are located close to each other, and you can easily walk between them. There's also a lovely trail through the woods connecting them. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The permanent collections at both Modern One and Modern Two are free to enter. Special exhibitions may have a separate charge, so it's worth checking their website. Reddit

The galleries are typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check the official National Galleries of Scotland website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.

For the free permanent collections, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special exhibitions, it's always a good idea to check if timed entry or booking is recommended or necessary.

While the permanent collections are free, concessions might apply to special exhibitions. Check the National Galleries of Scotland website for details on any applicable discounts.

Yes, donations are highly appreciated and help support the gallery's operations and acquisitions. You can usually donate at the gallery or online. Reddit

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

Most visitors find 3-4 hours sufficient to explore both galleries. Modern Two is a large building but not overwhelmingly packed with exhibits. Allow extra time for the cafe. Reddit

The sculpture park features a variety of contemporary artworks set within beautiful grounds. It's a lovely place for a stroll and offers a different perspective on art. Reddit

Yes, there's a dedicated space for kids to practice art and play, often with drawing materials provided. It's a great way to keep younger visitors engaged. Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the permanent collections, but flash and tripods are usually prohibited. Always check for specific signage in exhibition areas, as some may have restrictions. Instagram

Modern Two features a recreation of Eduardo Paolozzi's studio, offering a fascinating glimpse into his creative process and the eclectic nature of his work. Instagram

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, both Modern One and Modern Two have cafes. The cafe at Modern One is particularly noted for its excellent scones and coffee, though it can be a bit pricey. Reddit+1

The cafes typically offer a range of options including coffee, tea, pastries, light meals, and snacks. They are a great place to relax and refuel during your visit. Reddit

While the gallery cafes are convenient, you can find more budget-friendly options in nearby Stockbridge or by exploring the Water of Leith walkway. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the gallery spaces. However, you might be able to consume them in designated outdoor areas, especially if the weather is good.

Yes, the cafe is generally family-friendly, and the presence of a kids' art space nearby makes it a convenient spot for families to dine. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is usually permitted in the permanent collections, but always check for specific signage. Flash photography and tripods are typically not allowed. Instagram

Many visitors find the outdoor sculptures in the park highly photogenic. Inside, artworks like Paolozzi's studio or striking contemporary pieces often capture attention. Instagram+1

The sculpture park offers great opportunities for outdoor shots. The Water of Leith walkway also provides scenic backdrops. Reddit

While personal photography is usually allowed, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Always adhere to gallery guidelines. Instagram

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for indoor shots. However, a smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing most artworks and the overall atmosphere. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is a fantastic destination for families. With free entry to the permanent collections, it's an affordable outing. Reddit Modern One features a dedicated kids' art space where children can get hands-on with drawing and creative activities. Reddit The sculpture park also offers an engaging outdoor experience for little ones to explore. Don't miss the cafe for a treat – their scones are highly recommended! Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This gallery is a gem for budget-conscious travelers as the permanent collections are free to enter. Reddit You can spend hours exploring world-class modern and contemporary art without spending a penny on admission. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the sculpture park or opt for a coffee and scone at the cafe if your budget allows. Reddit+1 Consider walking along the Water of Leith walkway to reach the galleries for free and scenic transport. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Art Enthusiasts & Walkers

For art lovers, the diverse collections spanning modern and contemporary movements, including Surrealism and works by Paolozzi, are a must-see. Instagram+1 The opportunity to see rare drawings up close in the print room is a special treat. Instagram Combine your visit with a scenic walk along the Water of Leith walkway, connecting Dean Village to the galleries and beyond to Stockbridge. Reddit The sculpture park offers a unique outdoor art experience to complement your indoor exploration.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Modern One and Modern Two

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is actually comprised of two distinct buildings: Modern One and Modern Two. Modern One houses the main collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works from the early 20th century to the present day. It's known for its spacious galleries and often hosts major international exhibitions. Instagram Visitors often praise the accessible presentation of art here, with some pieces being particularly thought-provoking. Reddit

Modern Two, formerly the John Watson School, offers a different experience. It's home to a significant collection of Surrealist art, as well as works by Eduardo Paolozzi, including a recreation of his studio. Instagram This building also houses the gallery's print room, where you might get a chance to see rare drawings, like those by Raffaello Sanzio, up close. Instagram The two buildings are connected by a beautiful outdoor sculpture park and walking trails, making it easy to transition between them. Reddit

Many visitors recommend allocating at least 3-4 hours to fully appreciate both galleries. Reddit The free entry to the permanent collections makes it an excellent value, allowing ample time to absorb the diverse range of art on display. Reddit

The Sculpture Park and Water of Leith Walkway

Beyond the gallery walls, the sculpture park surrounding Modern One and Modern Two is an attraction in itself. This expansive outdoor space is dotted with impressive contemporary sculptures, offering a unique way to experience art in a natural setting. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to admire the artworks against the backdrop of the Scottish landscape. Reddit Visitors often find it a refreshing contrast to the indoor galleries, and it's particularly enjoyable on a sunny day. Reddit

Adding to the natural beauty is the Water of Leith walkway. This picturesque path runs alongside the river and conveniently connects the galleries to other parts of the city, including the charming Dean Village and the vibrant neighbourhood of Stockbridge. Reddit Many visitors choose to incorporate this walk into their visit, making for a delightful day out that combines art, nature, and urban exploration. Reddit It's a highly recommended route for those looking to experience more of Edinburgh's scenic beauty.

Art for Everyone: Accessibility and Family Focus

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is committed to making art accessible to all. The free entry to its permanent collections is a significant factor in this, removing financial barriers for many visitors. Reddit Beyond admission, the gallery actively caters to families. There's a dedicated kids' art space within Modern One, equipped with drawing materials and activities designed to spark creativity in younger visitors. Reddit This thoughtful provision ensures that children can engage with art in a fun and interactive way. Reddit

Furthermore, the gallery often features exhibitions with a strong representation of women artists, providing diverse perspectives and inspiring a broader audience. Reddit The accessible layout of the galleries and the availability of guides also contribute to a positive experience for all visitors, regardless of age or background. The combination of free access, family-friendly facilities, and diverse programming makes the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art a welcoming destination for everyone.

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