Did you know that the city of Edinburgh in Scotland has several galleries and museums that are free? Yes, I said free. In this day and age, it can be a challenge if you’re on a tight budget. The good news is you don’t have to stay at home being a couch potato! You can get out there and enjoy some of the top free Edinburgh museums, Scotland has to offer, with the first of these top free Edinburgh museums. So what are you waiting for!
Top Free Edinburgh Museums to visit when in Scotland
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland located on Chambers Street in Edinburgh is a great day out for the whole family, with several levels exhibiting everything from dinosaurs to fast racing cars and even the cloned Dolly the sheep. It’s free to enter and open seven days a week. Currently, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition is taking place on the top floor. There is an entrance fee but if you love photography, you don’t want to miss it! There is also a gift shop, tea room and restaurant. For great views, visit the outdoor terrace.
Writers’ Museum
Edinburgh the city of literature has produced some of the world’s most famous writers including Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson and more recently J.K. Rowling. Did you know Waverley Train Station was named after the novel Waverley written by Sir Walter Scott? There is even a literary walking tour exploring some of the pubs most frequented by famous writers. The Writers’ Museum located between Market Street and the Royal Mile/High on Lady Stair’s Close is a must visit for literary enthusiasts. The 17th century Lady Stair’s House is dedicated foremost to three Scottish writers Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. It’s free to visit, with donations welcome.
Museum of Childhood
The Museum of Childhood was the first museum in the world to specialise in the history of childhood, with toys and playthings. Has now re-opened after months of refurbishing with new exhibitions and interactive displays, it’s a great family-friendly free attraction. Located directly on the Royal Mile/High Street in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town it is easily accessible and central. See if you can spot any of your childhood toys.
The People’s Story Museum
The People’s Story Museum is located on the lower half of the Royal Mile – Canongate Tolbooth. It tells the stories of local working people between the 18th – 20th century. The local crafts and what everyday living was like back in the day. If you take the stairs to the top floor, you can watch a short video. It’s really interesting and fascinating hearing what the locals at that time had to say.
Museum of Edinburgh
Located opposite The People’s Story Museum is the Museum of Edinburgh a nice follow-on, with lucrative displays of skilled silverwork, pottery and more. Are you an Outlander fan? Walk in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire Fraser as you explore through the 16th century Huntly House.
All the above attractions are located in the heart of Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh and are easily reached on foot. There is lots to see and do in Edinburgh. We look forward to welcoming you soon! Happy Travels:) x