University of Edinburgh Old College
A breathtaking neoclassical masterpiece, Old College is the historic heart of the University of Edinburgh, offering stunning architecture and a glimps...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
University of Edinburgh Old College
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking neoclassical masterpiece, Old College is the historic heart of the University of Edinburgh, offering stunning architecture and a glimpse into academic heritage.
"The most beautiful building that UoE has. You can see the old architecture while they developed the interior into more modern."
📸 Capture the Sunrise
Catch Old College bathed in golden light for breathtaking photos.
🚶♂️ Admire from Outside
Interior access is limited; focus on the stunning exterior architecture.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old College Courtyard
Central quadrangle
Admire the stunning 18th-century architecture and soak in the academic atmosphere of this historic heart.
Law Library Exterior
Part of Old College
A grand and imposing structure, even from the outside, showcasing impressive historical design.
Robert Adam's Design
Throughout Old College
Appreciate the masterful neoclassical architecture by Robert Adam, a true masterpiece.
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Old College
Best Photo Spots
The courtyard and the main facade offer stunning backdrops, but be mindful of students and staff if you're visiting during term time.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Sunrise
Catch Old College bathed in golden light for breathtaking photos.
🚶♂️ Admire from Outside
Interior access is limited; focus on the stunning exterior architecture.
🎬 Film Location Spotting
Visit spots featured in 'One Day' for a cinematic experience.
📚 Hogwarts Vibes
Feel the magic of this historic university, often compared to Hogwarts.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Sunrise
Catch Old College bathed in golden light for breathtaking photos.
🚶♂️ Admire from Outside
Interior access is limited; focus on the stunning exterior architecture.
🎬 Film Location Spotting
Visit spots featured in 'One Day' for a cinematic experience.
📚 Hogwarts Vibes
Feel the magic of this historic university, often compared to Hogwarts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the University of Edinburgh's Old College for its stunning 18th-century architecture and historic atmosphere, often comparing it to Hogwarts. While interior access is limited, the exterior is considered a must-see landmark for its grandeur and photographic potential. Some note that certain areas could benefit from modernization, but this doesn't detract from its overall appeal as an architectural gem.
"Beautiful just to walk through. Must be amazing to study here too!"
Brian
"It was an affordable place to stay and very comfortable. The rooms are like 8'x12' and they have a sink and a desk. The bathrooms are shared, but I never had to wait, and they were very clean. Breakfast was included and it was great. A huge cafeteria with lots and lots of variety of fresh food."
Doug Dodd
"The Old College is a stunning example of historic architecture. I visited on a quiet day and was able to capture some really great photos without any crowds."
Nitchanun W.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old College is centrally located in Edinburgh's Old Town. You can easily reach it by walking from most city center locations. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and Waverley train station is a short walk away.
On-street parking in the Old Town is very limited and expensive. It's best to use public transport or park at a city center car park and walk.
The exterior of Old College is freely accessible and a popular spot for photos. However, access to interior spaces like the Law Library requires a University of Edinburgh student or staff card.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No ticket is required to view and photograph the exterior of Old College. Entry to specific internal areas, such as the Law Library, is restricted to university members.
The grounds and exterior of Old College are generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific building access, if available for tours, would have separate hours. Check the University of Edinburgh's website for any public tour information.
There is no entrance fee to admire the architecture of Old College from the outside.
📸 📸 Photography
The central courtyard offers a grand perspective, and the main facade is iconic. Sunrise provides particularly beautiful light for photography.
Photography inside Old College is generally not permitted for visitors, as access is restricted. Focus on capturing the stunning exterior architecture.
While exterior photography is welcome, be respectful of the academic environment and any ongoing university activities.
🎫 🏛️ Architecture & History
The original design for Old College was by Robert Adam, with later additions by William Henry Playfair.
Construction began in 1789, making it a significant historical landmark in Edinburgh.
It's the historic heart of the University of Edinburgh, representing centuries of academic tradition and architectural evolution.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The courtyard and the main facade are prime spots. Be aware that interior photography is not permitted for visitors. 🎬 Film Buffs
+1 You can walk around the exterior and imagine scenes from the show unfolding in this historic setting. It adds an extra layer of interest to your visit, connecting the real-world architecture with on-screen drama.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Old College
Later additions and modifications by William Henry Playfair further enhanced the complex, ensuring its continued relevance as a center of learning. The building's aesthetic has been praised for its beauty and its ability to inspire, making it a cherished landmark. Visitors often remark on the feeling of stepping back in time or into a fantasy world when viewing its historic structures.
Old College has also gained recent attention as a filming location, notably featuring in Netflix's 'One Day'. This has added another layer to its appeal, drawing fans of the show to seek out its iconic settings.
+1Experiencing Old College as a Visitor
While interior access is restricted, the visual impact of the building is significant enough to warrant a visit. Photographers often seek out the college, especially during sunrise, to capture its beauty in the soft morning light.
The surrounding Old Town of Edinburgh is also rich with history and other attractions, making Old College an easy and rewarding addition to a walking tour. It's worth noting that while the building is historic, some reviews suggest that certain areas might benefit from modernization to meet contemporary academic needs. However, this blend of old and new is part of its unique charm.
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