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    Portrait Gallery

    Overall rating

    4.25

    6 reviews

    aboutSectionText

    This neo-Gothic palace is a loveletter to Scotland. A hidden gem right at the heart of Edinburgh, it was designed by Sir Robert Rowand Anderson as a shrine for Scotland’s heroes and heroines. It opened to the public in 1889 as the world’s first purpose-built portrait gallery. The art within tells you stories of the land and its people. Discover familiar faces of Scotland - contemporary portraits of pop culture icons like Billy Connolly, Emeli Sandé and Tilda Swinton sit alongside pioneers in science, sport and famous historical figures such as Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns and Charles Edward Stuart. The gallery is decorated in elaborate murals and sculptural embellishments inside and out. Take time to look up at the Zodiac ceiling in the world-famous Great Hall and reflect and relax in Café Portrait.

    reviewsSectionText

    Overall rating

    4.25

    (6 reviews)

    Overall rating breakdown

    5

    1

    4

    4

    3

    1

    2

    0

    1

    0

    Access (avg.)

    4.58

    Parking (avg.)

    3.91

    Toilets (avg.)

    4.16

    Staff (avg.)

    4.91

    User profile picture

    tinahodgkinson

    Jul 2023

    star

    5

    Very accessible with Extremely Helpful Staff

    The Portrait Gallery is home to the national collection. It features both historic and contemporary portraits in its permanent galleries and temporary exhibitions. It also host regular events. This review is based on my very brief visit to the Gallery specifically to see a photography taken by my second great uncle, which was not on display, but was able book a visit to view it in their Library and Print Room. I found the gallery was very accessible.
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    kayfergone

    Dec 2020

    star

    4

    Visit during Covid restrictions

    This was my first visit to the museum, and although the first floor was closed due to Covid restrictions, I still really enjoyed my visit and look forward to going back.
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    amymccombes

    Apr 2018

    star

    4.5

    interesting history, art and brilliant cafe

    I have many positive experiences of this place. I find it aspiring and educational as a young photographer. I also think the cafe is really good and the staff are very helpful.
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    disabledAccessInformationSectionText Portrait Gallery

    disabledAccessText

    There is a ramp at the front of the building; staff will assist with opening the front door. There is step-free access to all areas in the gallery. There is a lift to all floors.
    Seating at regular intervals

    Toilets features at Portrait Gallery

    There is an accessible toilet on the ground level near the main entrance.
    Accessible toilet

    testing 1

    Accessible formats at Portrait Gallery

    Large print
    Sign Language

    Accessible services at Portrait Gallery

    Audio Description

    Test 3

    Assistance dog facilities

    Other features at Portrait Gallery

    Wi-Fi icon
    Wi-Fi
    Carers Discount
    Online Booking

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    For additional detailed accessibility information, please contact: enquiries@nationalgalleries.org

    contactSectionText

    + 0131 624 6200
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    Portrait Gallery Website

    locationSectionText

    1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom, EH2 1JD

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