The Scottish National Gallery is home to an extensive collection of paintings, sculpture and artwork that chronicles the history of art, right from the Renaissance to the early years 20th Century. The gallery's collection of Scottish artwork is especially extensive and well-curated. Featured alongside are several notable pieces created by masters like Monet, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Edgar Degas and Rembrandt, as well as several other noteworthy international artists. The neoclassical museum building is a work of art in itself. Admission is usually free, however a fee may apply for access to special exhibitions. As the home of the Scottish national collection of fine art, the Scottish National Gallery grants access to one of the world's foremost fine art collections.
The collection at National Portrait Gallery traces the history of Scotland through the portraiture of its pioneers, poets, philosophers, rebels and royalty. There is the chance to stare into the faces and see eye to eye with Bonny Prince Charlie and Mary Queen of Scots. Scotland's modern-day media monarchs and heroes are immortalized in portraits of novelist Irvine Welsh, dancer Moira Shearer, fashion-guru Jean Muir and footballer Danny McGrain amongst others. Also represented are works of some international greats, including Van Dyck, Gainsborough and Rodin. Contemporary art is exhibited alongside a growing National Photography Collection that includes the ground breaking work of Hill and Adamson.
This building was designed by William Burn in the 1820s in the neoclassical style for the John Watson School. Since 1984, the National Gallery of Modern Art has housed a magnificent art collection of which the city is justly proud. On the ground floor there are special exhibition rooms and displays from the permanent collection. Here you'll find American Pop Art, the Glasgow Boys, Rennie Mackintosh watercolors and one small room devoted to works by Ian Hamilton Finlay. The upper level features an impressive collection of early 20th-century international art, representing Bonnard, Vuillard, Matisse, Kirchner, Magritte, Picasso and Miro amongst others. The surrounding parkland contains sculpture by the likes of Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, William Turnbull and Anthony Caro. Calm down from the high-brow glory of it all in the cafe downstairs, or in the well-stocked museum shop.
The Royal Scottish Academy, an imposing neo-classical structure, was designed by William Playfair in the 1830s. Originally the home of the Society of Antiquaries and the Royal Society, the Royal Scottish Academy took over residence in 1911. Today, in early summer and midwinter, it holds exhibitions of contemporary Scottish work. The Royal Scottish Society of Watercolourists, the Society of Scottish artists and the Academy itself are frequent contributors. Student art is also often exhibited. RSA also presents exciting multi-media programs featuring the latest in film, video, digital and sound works.
The Firth of Forth forms a scenic backdrop to this striking 16th-century stone castle. Lauriston Castle with its 19th-century extensions and impressive grounds is one of the major attractions in the area. Decked up with Edwardian interiors and artworks, it gives a glimpse of a bygone era. The castle is known to be haunted, much like some of the other ancient manors across the country. The immaculately kept grounds with water features and a Japanese garden are popular among locals and tourists alike for some well-needed respite.
The Observatory offers great views of the city as well as the sky from the platform and through the telescopes. Primarily a research center for astronomers, the Observatory's exhibitions include astronomy activities for everyone. Hold a meteorite, see revolving Victorian telescope domes, explore the properties of light with hands-on exhibits, and use the telescopes to explore the night sky or check the sun for spots. The Observatory is informative and accessible regardless of your prior knowledge of the constellations. As the universe is stretched out before you, the intricacies of stars, supernovas and black holes are illuminated.
Innis & Gunn Comedy Attic, a comedy club is a hidden gem nestled in the attic of the pub, The Beehive Inn. The club hosts a great line up of stand up comedy by some really talented artists. Visit the venue and you are sure to get into a laughter riot among the regular boisterous crowd. Order some of the finest blends of spirits from their in-house pub and enjoy the night away with some good dose of laughter.
The so-called new "Scottish boys" of the painting world are favorites of this gallery; artists whose work epitomizes a contemporary and challenging approach to "fine art" using paint as their chosen medium. Set in an area where galleries face stiff competition from one another, this one draws work from a wide range of established and new names. Most work on sale is reasonably priced and sometimes it's possible to pick up a real bargain. Solo and group exhibitions are hosted here and they occasionally feature work from recent graduates. This is always worth a look, or ring for details of current shows.
Take a pleasant cruise from South Queensferry or Aberdour to this unspoiled island, situated in the middle of the estuary north of Edinburgh. The Augustinian abbey was built by Alexander I in the 12th Century and is one of the best-preserved monastic structures in Scotland. You are guaranteed to see seals on the trip, as well as seabirds such as cormorants and puffins. If you fancy spicing up the journey, specialty cruises are available, including a jazz night and a traditional Scottish folk evening trip. Sailings are on most days from Easter to October.
Edinburgh College of Art is great for spotting new talent. The highlight of the year's exhibitions are unquestionable, the degree shows in June. Come on down and admire or even purchase the students' offerings which range from the sublime to the ridiculous. Other exhibitions display a variety of pieces and media including ceramics, glass, textiles and jewelery. If you want to buy, be prepared, credit cards are not accepted. Call ahead for hours of operation.
Visit this 14th Century castle and relive the historic memories which took place in the earlier centuries at the Tantallon Castle. The fortress was built by the first Earl of Douglas, William Douglas and later was passed on to his descendants, as time passed the fortress witnessed a number of sieges, first by King James IV and later by General Monck. What is left today are the ruins which are now under the ownership of Historic Scotland. The structure is listed on the Category A listed building and also a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
Visit the Loch Leven Castle which is located on the island of the same name. Built in the 13th Century the castle was occupied by the Douglas family for over three centuries. The castle was then purchased by the architect Sir William Bruce then to the Graham family and lastly to the Montgomery's. The establishment is maintained and operated by the Historic Scotland. The castle is listed on category A listed building and is conserved as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. You can reach the castle by traveling by the 12 people ferry.