Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern Two), Edinburgh - a large room with a staircase and paintings on the walls
1 / 10

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern Two) Edinburgh

4.6
·670 reviews·, United Kingdom

Modern art from 1900 to present, featuring Paolozzi's studio and 'Decades' exhibition. Free entry to permanent collections.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

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

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern Two) Edinburgh

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Modern art from 1900 to present, featuring Paolozzi's studio and 'Decades' exhibition. Free entry to permanent collections.

4.6
(670 reviews)

"A stunning venue for some of the world's most astonishing artists, expanding horizons with rolling exhibitions."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walk to Gallery

Take the Water of Leith walkway from Dean Village for a beautiful approach to the galleries.

☕ Cafe System Quirks

The cafe system can be confusing; note your table number before ordering at the counter.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Paolozzi Studio Recreation

Paolozzi Studio Recreation

Modern Two

Step into the recreated studio of artist Eduardo Paolozzi, filled with his sculptures and tools. A deeply personal glimpse into his creative world.

Reddit
Decades: The Art of Change

Decades: The Art of Change

Modern Two

Explore art from 1900-1980 reflecting societal shifts, featuring works by Judd, Dali, Kusama, and Mondrian.

Reddit
Vulcan Sculpture

Vulcan Sculpture

Modern Two Cafe

Dine or have coffee beneath the impressive two-story high 'Vulcan' sculpture by local artist Paolozzi.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Free Entry & Special Exhibitions

Most of the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is free to enter, but special exhibitions may have a charge. Check the website for current shows and book tickets in advance, especially for popular temporary exhibits. Reddit

Getting There & Walking

Modern Two is a pleasant walk from Dean Village via the Water of Leith walkway. Allow ample time to enjoy the scenic route. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (special exhibits)
Why
Catch temporary exhibitions
Crowd
Medium

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

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walk to Gallery

Take the Water of Leith walkway from Dean Village for a beautiful approach to the galleries. Reddit

☕ Cafe System Quirks

The cafe system can be confusing; note your table number before ordering at the counter. Reddit

The city’s hidden gems… The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Modern One and Modern Two🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is part of the National Galleries of Scotland, which are based in Edinburgh. The National Gallery of Modern Art houses the collection of modern and contemporary art dating from about 1900 to the present in two buildings, Modern One and Modern Two, that...
pandeyrr
3.8K likes • 70.1K views
Paolozzi at 100 - Eduardo Paolozzi, Exhibition celebrating 100 years since his birth - Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Modern Two, Edinburgh, UK. Two gallery spaces full of his stuff including his Mickey tapestry, tile designs for Tottenham Court Road tube station, and on permanent display, a replication of his actual art studio. On until April 21st. Sir Eduardo Luigi Paolozzi was a Sc...
brutalbasil
16 likes • 174 views

🖼️ Free General Admission

Enjoy the permanent collections for free, but check for special exhibition ticket prices. Reddit

⏳ Time for Both Galleries

Allocate 3-4 hours to comfortably explore both Modern One and Modern Two. Reddit

Más info por acá 👇 💜 Como siempre acompañada de mis amigos de @paxassistance que son la mejor asistencia al viajero, y los adoro!!! ⚔️ Museos gratuitos: National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Gallery, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern One y Modern Two), Museum of Edinburgh, People’s Story Museum, Museum of Childhood, Writers’ Museum, M...
viajaconjuliwood
401 likes • 12.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walk to Gallery

Take the Water of Leith walkway from Dean Village for a beautiful approach to the galleries. Reddit

☕ Cafe System Quirks

The cafe system can be confusing; note your table number before ordering at the counter. Reddit

🖼️ Free General Admission

Enjoy the permanent collections for free, but check for special exhibition ticket prices. Reddit

⏳ Time for Both Galleries

Allocate 3-4 hours to comfortably explore both Modern One and Modern Two. Reddit

🎨 Paolozzi at 100

Don't miss the special exhibition celebrating Eduardo Paolozzi's centenary. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(670 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Two for its engaging exhibitions, particularly the Paolozzi studio and 'Decades' collection. The free entry to permanent collections is a major draw, and the scenic walk along the Water of Leith is highly recommended. However, some find the cafe's ordering system confusing and certain paid exhibitions to be pricey.

"It’s a little off the beaten track so tends to be quieter than some of the other National Galleries in the city. Modern Art 2 (The Dean) is smaller than its sibling just across the road so tends to be used for special exhibits. However it does house the more pleasant cafe.

The cafe provides the opportunity to eat under the feet of Vulcan, a two story high sculpture by Edinburgh local Paolozzi. The one downside to the cafe is you need to go to the counter to see the cakes for the day and to order, yet you also need to have a table number for where you’re sitting. The amount of times I’ve gone to order and returned to my table to find other people had now sat there. It’s not a sensible system and I wish they’d change it"

AJ Merron

"In Edinburgh and specifically Modern Two, I had the pleasure of leveraging the accessibility of spaces that hold art galleries and their subsequent programs e.g. shops, resource centres (the Reading Room as they call it) and even the beautiful accompanying views both inside and looking out – with one of Jencks’ renowned landscapes.

Pleased to have caught “Decades: The Art of Change (1900-1980)” in August ‘23, with works reflecting societal change of respective decades: war-time scarcity pushing creativity to its limits and beyond, optimism and realism that came out of post-war decades, and societal stability seeing the emergence of playful and more experimental art.

The exhibition hosts reputable works of Donald Judd, Salvadore Dali, Yayoi Kusama, and Piet Mondrian, among many others.

The gallery is also permanently home to a recreation of Sir Eduardo Paolozzi’s studio filled with sculptures and his art-making tools curated with such a humane touch, almost coming to life."

Suneeda Sisuwan

"Not really free entry its £14 ticket which is not worth because the exhibition wasn’t very impressive. Hardly spent couple of minutes inside and moved on.
Location was nice though sitting in the middle of green grassy open space."

UK Photo Journey

What People Like

Engaging exhibitions
Paolozzi studio
Free permanent collections

What People Dislike

Confusing cafe system
Paid exhibition costs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Modern Two by bus or by walking. Many visitors enjoy the scenic Water of Leith walkway from Dean Village, which takes about 20-30 minutes. Reddit Buses also serve the area regularly.

Limited parking is available at the galleries, but it can fill up quickly. It's often easier to use public transport or walk. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk, especially if you take the Water of Leith walkway. It's a beautiful route that connects Dean Village to the galleries. Reddit

Many visitors opt for a scenic walk along the Water of Leith walkway, starting from Dean Village. Alternatively, local buses provide convenient access. Reddit

Yes, local buses stop near the galleries, making them easily accessible via public transport from Edinburgh city center. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the permanent collections at both Modern One and Modern Two is free. However, special exhibitions may require a paid ticket. Reddit

Entry to the permanent collections is free. Paid tickets are usually required for temporary or special exhibitions, so check the official website for current pricing. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance for special exhibitions, as they can sell out, especially during peak times. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official National Galleries of Scotland website for the most up-to-date information on opening times for Modern Two. Reddit

Information on discounts for special exhibitions, such as for students or seniors, is usually available on the gallery's website when booking tickets. Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

Most visitors find 3-4 hours sufficient to explore both Modern One and Modern Two, especially if you're not focusing heavily on the outdoor sculptures. Reddit

Highlights include the recreated Paolozzi studio, the 'Decades: The Art of Change' exhibition, and the 'Vulcan' sculpture in the cafe. InstagramReddit

Free Wi-Fi is typically available within the gallery spaces, allowing you to access information or share your experience online. Instagram

Information on guided tours or talks is usually available on the gallery's website or at the information desk upon arrival. Reddit

The 'Vulcan' is a striking two-story high sculpture by Eduardo Paolozzi, prominently displayed in the cafe area of Modern Two. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Modern Two has a cafe that offers refreshments and light meals. It's known for its unique setting beneath the 'Vulcan' sculpture. Reddit

The cafe offers a pleasant dining experience, though some find it a bit pricey. It's a good spot to rest and recharge during your visit. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the gallery spaces. It's best to consume them in designated outdoor areas or before entering. Reddit

Cafes in galleries often cater to various dietary needs. It's advisable to check the current menu or ask staff for specific vegetarian or vegan options. Reddit

The ordering system requires you to see the cakes at the counter and then return to your table with a number to place your order. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the permanent collections, but flash and tripods are usually prohibited. Special exhibitions may have different rules. Instagram

Sharing photos on social media is common, but always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography restrictions. Instagram

The 'Vulcan' sculpture in the cafe, the Paolozzi studio, and the architecture of the building itself offer great photographic opportunities. Reddit

Filming for commercial purposes or with professional equipment usually requires prior permission. Check with the gallery for their specific policies. Instagram

Visitors often share their experiences and favorite artworks on platforms like Instagram, capturing the art and the unique atmosphere of the gallery. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Modern Two focuses on modern and contemporary art, it can still be an engaging visit for families. The recreated Paolozzi studio offers a tangible, almost interactive feel, and the 'Vulcan' sculpture in the cafe is a definite talking point for children. InstagramReddit

Consider visiting during quieter weekday mornings to allow children more space to explore without feeling overwhelmed. The free entry to permanent collections makes it an accessible option for a cultural outing. Pack snacks and drinks, as cafe prices can add up, and utilize the beautiful outdoor spaces for breaks. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Art Enthusiasts & Culture Seekers

For those passionate about art, Modern Two is a must-visit. The gallery's curated exhibitions, particularly those focusing on 20th-century art and artists like Paolozzi, offer deep dives into significant movements and creative processes. InstagramReddit

Take advantage of the free general admission to explore the permanent collections at your own pace. Consider booking paid special exhibitions in advance to ensure you don't miss out on unique displays. The gallery's location along the Water of Leith walkway also adds to the cultural experience, blending art with scenic exploration. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Modern Two is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as general admission to its permanent collections is free. Reddit This allows you to experience significant modern and contemporary art without an entry fee. Reddit

While special exhibitions may incur a cost, you can still enjoy the gallery's architecture, the Paolozzi studio, and the 'Vulcan' sculpture. The free entry makes it a perfect addition to a day of exploring Edinburgh's many free attractions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Eduardo Paolozzi

Eduardo Paolozzi was a pioneering Scottish artist known for his innovative approach to sculpture, printmaking, and collage. His work often explored themes of technology, consumerism, and the human form, blending found objects with traditional artistic techniques. Modern Two is home to a significant collection of his work, including a permanent recreation of his studio. Instagram+3

Visitors can immerse themselves in Paolozzi's creative environment, seeing his sculptures, tools, and personal effects. This intimate display offers a unique insight into his artistic process and the inspirations behind his iconic pieces. The gallery also frequently hosts exhibitions dedicated to his work, celebrating his centenary and lasting impact on modern art. Instagram+3

Beyond his studio, Paolozzi's influence is visible in various parts of the gallery, including the 'Vulcan' sculpture in the cafe. His bold and often playful style continues to captivate audiences, making his contributions a central part of the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art's appeal. Reddit

Exploring Modern Two's Collections

Modern Two, also known as The Dean Gallery, focuses on modern and contemporary art from around 1900 to the present day. It houses a diverse range of artworks, often featuring in temporary exhibitions that explore specific themes, artists, or periods. The gallery is particularly noted for its collection of Surrealist art and works by artists like Eduardo Paolozzi. InstagramReddit

A notable exhibition often featured is 'Decades: The Art of Change (1900-1980)', which showcases how societal shifts influenced artistic creation. This exhibition includes significant pieces by renowned artists such as Donald Judd, Salvador Dalí, Yayoi Kusama, and Piet Mondrian, offering a comprehensive look at 20th-century art. Reddit

The gallery's intimate setting and thoughtful curation make it a rewarding experience for art enthusiasts. The combination of permanent displays and rotating special exhibitions ensures there's always something new to discover, making it a key destination for modern art lovers in Edinburgh. Reddit

The Water of Leith Walkway Experience

The Water of Leith walkway offers a tranquil and scenic route to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, connecting it to areas like Dean Village and Stockbridge. This path provides a refreshing escape from the city bustle, winding through lush greenery and alongside the picturesque Water of Leith river. Reddit

Starting from Dean Village, the walk to Modern Two is approximately 20-30 minutes and is highly recommended by visitors for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect way to build anticipation for the art within the galleries and enjoy Edinburgh's natural landscapes. Reddit

This walkway is not just a means of transport but an experience in itself, offering charming views and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty that complements the urban environment. It's a favorite tip among locals and visitors alike for a leisurely approach to the galleries. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2