Usher Hall Edinburgh
A magnificent Victorian concert hall in Edinburgh, celebrated for its stunning architecture and unparalleled acoustics, hosting diverse musical perfor...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better focus
Usher Hall Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better focus

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Victorian concert hall in Edinburgh, celebrated for its stunning architecture and unparalleled acoustics, hosting diverse musical performances.
"Stunning Victorian hall! Been here to see a few bands and the venue is part of the experience!!"
🎟️ Book Presale Tickets
Sign up for the Usher Hall mailing list on their website to get early access to tickets for popular shows.
💺 Stalls for Comfort
For a balance of comfort and view, consider stalls seats towards the back in the middle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Victorian Architecture
Throughout the Hall
Admire the stunning Victorian design, ornate details, and impressive scale of this historic concert venue. A true feast for the eyes.

Exceptional Acoustics
Main Auditorium
Experience world-class sound quality, perfect for classical music and intimate performances. The hall is renowned for its sonic excellence.

The Spiral Staircase
Restrooms Area
A unique architectural feature that adds to the hall's charm. Don't miss a peek at this distinctive spiral staircase.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Consider Your Seating Choice
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Presale Tickets
Sign up for the Usher Hall mailing list on their website to get early access to tickets for popular shows.
💺 Stalls for Comfort
For a balance of comfort and view, consider stalls seats towards the back in the middle.
⬆️ Upper Circle Caution
The upper circle offers good views but is very steep and has narrow, uncomfortable seats. Avoid if you have vertigo.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Consider parking at Castle Terrace or Grindlay Street Court. Free parking is available after 6:30 PM on weekdays.
Where are the best value seats at Usher Hall.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Presale Tickets
Sign up for the Usher Hall mailing list on their website to get early access to tickets for popular shows.
💺 Stalls for Comfort
For a balance of comfort and view, consider stalls seats towards the back in the middle.
⬆️ Upper Circle Caution
The upper circle offers good views but is very steep and has narrow, uncomfortable seats. Avoid if you have vertigo.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Consider parking at Castle Terrace or Grindlay Street Court. Free parking is available after 6:30 PM on weekdays.
🚶 Public Transport Recommended
Driving and parking in Edinburgh can be challenging; public transport or a taxi is often a less stressful option.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Usher Hall for its stunning Victorian architecture and exceptional acoustics, making it a top-tier venue for concerts. While the seats may not be the most comfortable, the overall experience is elevated by the grand atmosphere and the quality of sound. The central location and modern bar facilities are also appreciated, though bar prices are noted as being typical for such venues.
"Stunning Victorian hall! Been here to see a few bands and the venue is part of the experience!! Seats are Victorian style but comfy enough but the venue is fantastic and has a more modern bar area so you can get served!! Highly recommend this city centre venue and you need to check out the spiral staircase to the loos!!"
David Shemilt
"Beautiful building full of heritage and history. Great acoustics. Very good facilities. Approachable ticket prices"
Bartosz Alichper
"The place hosts brilliant concerts, and it's a great place for university graduation ceremony. The seats could be comfier, but I think that's standard to feel like one's back is broken at the end of the night!"
Lena
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Usher Hall is centrally located on Lothian Road in Edinburgh. It's easily accessible by public transport, with numerous bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, be aware that parking can be challenging and expensive.
Yes, the Usher Hall is very well-served by public transport. Many bus routes stop directly on Lothian Road, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city.
From Edinburgh Waverley train station, you can walk to the Usher Hall in about 15-20 minutes, or take a short bus or taxi ride. The walk takes you through the city centre.
Yes, you can use the Ingliston Park and Ride and take the tram into the city centre, alighting at the West End stop, which is a short walk from the Usher Hall.
Parking near the Usher Hall can be difficult and costly. Options include multi-storey car parks like Castle Terrace or Grindlay Street Court, or street parking which may require a walk. Free parking is available after 6:30 PM on weekdays.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Usher Hall website, by phone, or in person at the box office. Signing up for their mailing list can provide access to presale opportunities.
While specific promo codes are not always advertised, signing up for the Usher Hall's newsletter is the best way to be informed about any potential discounts or special offers.
The Usher Hall has a seating capacity of approximately 2,900 people, making it one of Scotland's largest concert venues.
It is generally advisable to book tickets in advance, especially for popular events, as they can sell out. However, if tickets are still available, they may be purchased at the box office on the day of the performance.
The box office opening hours vary, and the hall itself opens for events typically 30-60 minutes before the performance start time. It's best to check the specific event details on the Usher Hall website.
🎫 💺 Onsite Experience
For classical music, many recommend the stalls towards the back in the middle for good views and comfort. The centre of the grand circle also offers a great perspective, though the front row can be very close to the stage.
Seat comfort can be a mixed experience. While some find them adequate, others note that the seats, particularly in the upper circle, can be narrow and less comfortable for longer performances.
The Usher Hall has a traditional seating layout with stalls, grand circle, and upper circle sections. It's advisable to consult the specific seating plan for your chosen event when booking.
While primarily a seated venue, some concerts may offer standing areas, particularly for pop or rock gigs. Check the specific event details when purchasing tickets.
The Usher Hall features modern bar areas, restrooms (including one with a notable spiral staircase), and cloakroom facilities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Usher Hall has bar areas where you can purchase drinks. For a wider selection of food, there are numerous restaurants, pubs, and cafes located on Lothian Road and surrounding streets.
The venue has a modern bar area that is generally well-equipped to serve patrons. However, like many venues, bar prices can be on the higher side.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the Usher Hall. It's best to consume any food or drinks before entering the venue.
Lothian Road and the surrounding areas offer a good selection of pubs and bars. Some popular options include The Whiski Bar and The Ensign Ewart, which are within walking distance.
Yes, Lothian Road and the nearby West End district boast a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are not permitted during performances at the Usher Hall to avoid disturbing other audience members and performers. Check specific event policies.
The exterior of the Usher Hall, with its grand Victorian architecture, is very photogenic. Inside, the main auditorium and the unique spiral staircase are also popular subjects for photos.
Yes, you can take photos of the Usher Hall's exterior at any time. It's a beautiful building that looks impressive from various angles, especially during daylight hours.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in urban areas like Edinburgh. It's unlikely to be permitted near the Usher Hall without special authorization due to safety and privacy concerns.
You can capture stunning architectural shots of the Victorian building, the grandeur of the main auditorium, and details like the spiral staircase. During events, focus on the atmosphere rather than stage photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For specific family-friendly events, check the Usher Hall's 'What's On' guide. Consider seats in the stalls for better comfort and sightlines for children. If attending a classical concert, look for shorter programs or those with a more engaging narrative to keep younger attention spans focused.
💰 Budget Travelers
For parking, utilize the free street parking after 6:30 PM on weekdays or consider the Ingliston Park and Ride with a tram ticket for a significantly cheaper transport option. Eating before or after the show at one of the many local cafes or pubs rather than the venue's bar can also save money.
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
For the ultimate audio experience, consider seats in the central stalls or grand circle to fully appreciate the hall's sonic capabilities. Keep an eye on the 'What's On' schedule for upcoming concerts, as the Usher Hall frequently hosts major tours and special musical events, including those during the Edinburgh Festival.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Usher Hall Seating
Conversely, the upper circle is known for its steep incline and can be quite uncomfortable with narrow, wooden seats and limited legroom. While the view from here can be good, it's often advised against for those with vertigo or who prioritize comfort. The grand circle offers a good vantage point, with the front rows providing an elevated view directly over the stage, though some prefer to be a few rows back for a more encompassing perspective.
Ultimately, the best seat can be subjective and depend on the specific event. Consulting the Usher Hall seating plan when booking is crucial. For standing room, this is typically only available for certain types of concerts, like pop or rock gigs, so always check the ticket details.
Parking and Transportation Tips
A smart strategy for those attending evening events is to utilize free street parking which becomes available after 6:30 PM on weekdays. However, ensure you park legally and be prepared for a short walk. For a more budget-friendly approach, consider the Princes Exchange/Riego Street car park, which is often cited as one of the cheapest options since Semple Street car park closed.
If you're coming from further afield, the Ingliston Park and Ride combined with a tram journey to the West End stop is a highly recommended and cost-effective method. Many Redditors also advise that public transport or a taxi is often a less stressful alternative to navigating Edinburgh's driving and parking challenges.
The Usher Hall Experience
Beyond the main auditorium, the Usher Hall offers a modern bar area, which is a welcome addition for concert-goers looking for refreshments. While bar prices are comparable to other venues, the convenience is appreciated. A unique feature that often gets a mention is the spiral staircase leading to the restrooms, adding a quirky touch to the visitor experience.
While the venue itself is highly praised, a common point of feedback relates to the comfort of the seats. Some visitors find them to be less comfortable than modern seating, especially during longer performances. However, this is often seen as a minor trade-off for the overall historical charm and excellent sound quality the Usher Hall provides.
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