Art museums in Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland, located in Edinburgh, was established in 2006 as a result of the merger of two adjacent museums: the Scotland Museum and the Royal Museum. The Scotland Museum is home to collections that shed light on Scottish antiquity, culture, and history. On the other hand, the Royal Museum houses collections that cover a wide range of topics, including science and technology, natural history, and world cultures.

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, situated in Glasgow, Scotland, is a renowned museum and art gallery. After undergoing a three-year renovation, it reopened in 2006 and quickly became one of Scotland's most frequented visitor centres. This makes it a significant point of interest for tourists exploring Scotland's rich cultural and historical heritage.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, colloquially known as Holyrood Palace, has a rich history dating back to 1128 when it was founded as a monastery by David I of Scotland. Since the 16th century, it has served as the primary residence of the Scottish monarchs, with its last inhabitant being Queen Mary Stuart. This historical significance makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in Scottish history and royal residences.

The Riverside Museum (Glasgow Museum of Transport) is home to over 3,000 objects that detail Glasgow’s rich past from its days as maritime powerhouse to a glimpse into daily Glasgow life in the early to mid 20th Century. ​Amongst the objects on display are everything from skateboards to locomotives,

Stirling Castle is a museum in Stirling. The museum features exhibits related to: weapons and war, social history, architecture and archaeology.

The National Gallery of Scotland opened in 1859 and is housed in a neoclassical building designed by William Henry Playfair. The gallery houses a collection of both classical and modern art from various countries. The displays are organized according to countries and periods. Highlights of the perma

Urquhart Castle, a ruined castle, is situated on the banks of Loch Ness, near the village of Drumnadrochit in the Highlands. The castle is easily accessible as it is located on the A82, just 21 km from Inverness and 2 km from Drumnadrochit. This makes it a convenient destination for tourists visiting the area.

Eilean Donan is a small island situated in Loch Duich, in the western part of Highland, Scotland. It is connected to the mainland by a footbridge and is approximately a kilometer away from the village of Dornie. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area.

The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is an art museum in Edinburgh housed in a red sandstone Gothic revival building that was built between 1885 and 1890, designed by Robert Rowand Anderson. The museum holds the national collections of portraits and the Scottish National Photography Collection. Th

The Burrell Collection is a museum/art collection in Glasgow. The Burrell Collection consists of objects collected by Sir William Burrell, a wealthy Glaswegian shipping magnate. It includes an important collection of medieval art including stained glass and tapestries, oak furniture, medieval weapon

St Andrews Cathedral has a rich history that dates back to the year 742. It was during this time that the relics of the apostle Saint Andrew, who is now the patron saint of Scotland, arrived in the area. This event marked the beginning of the cathedral's existence and its significance in Scottish history.

The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is a dedicated space that houses a vast collection related to the life of Robert Burns, who is celebrated as Scotland's national Bard. The museum provides an in-depth look into the life and works of Burns, offering visitors a chance to explore and understand the cultural significance of this renowned figure.

The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery is the oldest museum in Scotland. The museum features objects relating to William Hunter and his collections from Roman Scotland, geology (he Begg Collection of fossils donated by James Livingstone Begg), ethnography, ancient Egypt, scientific instruments (from L

The West Highland Museum is situated in the heart of Fort William. It is dedicated to narrating the rich history of the Scottish Highlands and the Islands. The museum covers a wide range of topics related to West Highland history, making it a comprehensive source of information for those interested in learning about the region's past.

Dumfries House is a significant historical mansion situated approximately two kilometers west of the Scottish town of Cumnock, in the East Ayrshire council area. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and architectural beauty of the mansion while also enjoying the picturesque Scottish countryside.

Falkland Palace, Garden and Old Burgh is a museum in Cupar. The museum features exhibits related to Social History, Sport and Architecture.

The Gordon Highlanders Museum, located in Aberdeen, Scotland, is dedicated to the history of the Gordon Highlanders regiment. This regiment has a rich history, originating as the 92nd (Gordon Highlanders) Regiment of Foot in 1794. It later merged with the 75th (Stirlingshire) Regiment of Foot to form the Gordon Highlanders in 1881, and was eventually incorporated into a larger unit of the British Army in 1994.

Callendar House is a historic mansion located near the Scottish town of Falkirk. It holds significant historical value, as it was included in the Scottish monument lists in the highest category A in 1960. This recognition highlights the architectural and historical importance of the mansion, making it a notable site for tourists interested in Scottish history and architecture.

The Hill House is considered the finest of Charles Rennie Mackintosh's domestic creations. It dates from 1902. Mackintosh and his wife also designed the interior fittings and decorative schemes.

The Tenement House is a historic house museum located in Glasgow. It is owned and operated by the National Trust for Scotland, a conservation charity dedicated to preserving and promoting Scotland's natural and cultural heritage. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of the early 20th century in a typical Glasgow tenement flat.

Built in the 15th century by one of Scotland’s most powerful families, the Crichtons, Blackness was never destined as a peaceful lordly residence; its enduring roles were those of garrison fortress and state prison.

Brodie Castle is a significant historical site located ten kilometers northeast of Nairn in the Scottish Council Area Highland. This castle is the ancestral home of the Brodie Clan, making it a place of great historical significance. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about the history of the Brodie Clan and their influence in Scotland.

Aberdeen Art Gallery is a museum in Aberdeen. The museum features exhibits related to Coins and Medals, Decorative and Applied Art, Social History, Fine Art, Personalities, Archaeology, Science and Technology and Costume and Textiles.

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery - High Life Highland is a museum in Inverness. The museum features exhibits related to: science and technology, fine art, music, social history, archaeology, personalities, coins and medals, weapons and war, costume and textiles, archives, land transport, natural sci

Chatelherault Country Park is a museum in Hamilton. The museum features exhibits related to Land Transport, Social History, Personalities, Natural Sciences, Archaeology, World Cultures, Fine Art, Costume and Textiles, Decorative and Applied Art, Weapons and War, Archives and Science and Technology.

Queen Mary's House, located in Jedburgh, is a significant historical site dating back to the sixteenth century. It is known for being the residence of Mary, Queen of Scots, for a few weeks in 1566. This historical connection adds a layer of intrigue and importance to the building, making it a point of interest for those interested in the life and times of Queen Mary.

Traquair House, also referred to as Traquair Castle, is a historic Scottish manor situated in the scenic Tweed Valley. It is located approximately one kilometer south of the town of Innerleithen. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful Scottish countryside while also immersing themselves in the rich history of the manor.

The Georgian House is a significant historical site located at Charlotte Square in Edinburgh. It is part of the New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the United Kingdom. This townhouse offers a glimpse into the life and circumstances of a wealthy family at the end of the 18th and beginning of the 19th century. It is a part of the Charlotte Square 1–11 ensemble on the north side of the park, which has been included in the highest category A of the Scottish monument list by Historic Environment Scotland.

The Museum of Edinburgh, previously known as Huntly House and the historic Bank of Scotland Head Office, is situated at 142-146 Canongate. This location is in the heart of Edinburgh, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. The museum is housed in a unique yellow, three-story building that dates back to the late 16th century.

Threave House is a museum in Castle Douglas. The museum features exhibits related to: architecture, natural sciences and social history.

Craigievar Castle, with its distinctive pink facade, is located approximately 9.6 km south of Alford, in the county of Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The castle is currently the seat of the Sempill clan, adding a rich historical context to its already impressive architecture.

Provand’s Lordship, located in Glasgow, Scotland, is a villa that has a rich history dating back to 1471. It was originally built for the Bishop of Glasgow, Andrew Muirhead, and has since served various purposes, including a parsonage. Today, it stands as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.

The National Galleries Scotland is a significant institution that oversees three national galleries and two partner galleries. These galleries form part of the National Collections of Scotland, a collection of significant cultural and historical artifacts. The organization's role is to manage these galleries, care for and preserve the objects in its collections, exhibit artworks to the public, and promote education and public enjoyment and understanding of the Fine Arts.

The Stewartry Museum, located in Kirkcudbright, Scotland, is a local museum that was originally founded in 1879. Due to the increasing size of the museum collection, it was moved to its current building, designed by architect Robert Wallace, in 1893. This museum is a significant part of the local history and culture of Kirkcudbright.

Duff House Country House Gallery is a museum in Banff. The museum features exhibits related to Decorative and Applied Art, Architecture and Fine Art. Key themes, people and exhibits in the museum include Sir Henry Raeburn, François Boucher, Chippendale and El Greco.

Museum of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders is a museum in Stirling. The museum features exhibits related to Archives, Personalities, Decorative and Applied Art, Fine Art, Coins and Medals and Costume and Textiles.

Haddo House is a stately home in Scotland, situated near Tarves in Aberdeenshire, about 20 miles north of Aberdeen. The National Trust for Scotland has owned the property since 1979, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for public enjoyment.

As the oldest surviving residential building in Glasgow, Provand’s Lordship now serves as a museum. It houses a collection of 17th-century furniture and royal portraits, providing a unique insight into the city's history. The museum is open to the public and admission is free, making it an accessible destination for all visitors.

Burns House Museum is a museum in Dumfries. The museum features exhibits related to: fine art, social history, decorative and applied art, archives, personalities, costume and textiles, music, coins and medals and literature. Key themes, people and exhibits in the museum include: kilmarnock and edin

The House of Dun is a property of the National Trust for Scotland, located in the parish of Dun, Angus, Scotland. It is situated close to the edge of the Montrose Basin, approximately halfway between the towns of Montrose and Brechin. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful Scottish countryside while also being within easy reach of local towns.

The Writers' Museum is a literary museum that is devoted to three Scottish writers. Once collection is dedicated to Robert Burns, a Scottish national poet and lyricist. Another collection focuses on Robert Louis Stevenson, a poet and novelist, the author of Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. And

Perth Museum and Art Gallery is a museum in Perth. The museum features exhibits related to Fine Art, Music, Archaeology, Coins and Medals, Social History, Archives, Weapons and War, Decorative and Applied Art, Land Transport, Natural Sciences, Science and Technology, World Cultures and Costume and T

Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum is a museum in Stirling. The museum features exhibits related to: trade and commerce, costume and textiles, literature, land transport, agriculture, natural sciences, industry, decorative and applied art, religion, toys and hobbies, personalities, science and te

Constructed in 1752 and later extended in the early 20th century, Pollok House was generously given to the City of Glasgow in 1966. Today, it is managed by the National Trust for Scotland and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the house and its grounds, immersing themselves in its history and beauty.

Armadale Castle, located in the Scottish village of Armadale on the Isle of Skye, was built between 1790 and the mid-19th century. It was once the residence of Clan Donald, who settled in Skye in the 15th century and established their main residence in Armadale from the mid-17th century. Today, the castle houses the Museum of the Isles, offering visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the region.

Kirkcaldy Galleries is a museum in Kirkcaldy. The museum features exhibits related to: social history, land transport, medicine, archives, coins and medals, fine art, science and technology, maritime, archaeology, decorative and applied art, personalities and costume and textiles.

The Low Parks Museum is situated in the city of Hamilton, within the South Lanarkshire Council Area of Scotland. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region, offering a rich insight into the local history and culture.

The Hill of Tarvit House is not only known for its historical significance but also for its stunning landscape gardens. The property is listed in the Scottish Register for Landscape Gardens, a testament to its beautifully maintained gardens and parklands. It has been awarded the highest accolade of 'outstanding' in two out of seven categories, making it a notable destination for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Lauriston Castle, located in the Scottish city of Edinburgh, is a historical site dating back to the 16th century. The castle, which has been extended in the 19th century, offers a stunning view over the Firth of Forth. This makes it not only a place of historical interest but also a location with a beautiful landscape.

Clan Macpherson Museum is a museum in Newtonmore. The museum features exhibits related to Fine Art, Decorative and Applied Art, Weapons and War, Archives and Social History.

Hawick Museum and the Scott Art Gallery is a museum in Hawick. The museum features exhibits related to Weapons and War, Science and Technology, World Cultures, Fine Art, Natural Sciences, Personalities, Land Transport, Costume and Textiles, Decorative and Applied Art, Coins and Medals, Archaeology,

Leith Hall, located in Kennethmont, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is a country house with a rich history. It was constructed in 1650, taking the place of the medieval Peill Castle. This historical site offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to explore the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.

The House of the Binns is a historic mansion located near the Scottish town of Blackness in the West Lothian council area. This location offers visitors a chance to explore a piece of Scotland's rich history and architectural heritage. The mansion is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, providing a serene environment for tourists.

Provost Skene's House, located in Aberdeen, is a historical building that was constructed in 1545. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history and heritage. The house is named after Provost Skene, who purchased it in 1669.

Timespan Heritage Centre and Art Gallery is a museum in Helmsdale. The museum features exhibits related to: social history, archaeology, science and technology and natural sciences.

Shetland Crofthouse Museum is a museum in Dunrossness. The museum features exhibits related to: social history and decorative and applied art.

Newhailes House, previously known as Whitehill, is a neoclassical mansion situated on the western outskirts of the Scottish town of Musselburgh, in the Council Area of East Lothian. This historic building, designed by the Scottish architect James Smith in 1686 as his own residence, has undergone several changes over the centuries. It was sold to John Bellenden, 2nd Lord Bellenden, in 1701, who later sold it to David Dalrymple, 1st Baronet, in 1709. The estate was renamed Newhailes, a name inspired by Dalrymple's Hailes Castle.

Dunblane Museum is opposite Dunblane Cathedral. Its building goes back to 1624, when it was the home of the Dean of the Cathedral. The museum features exhibits related to the mediaeval cathedral, Archaeology, Coins and Medals, Communion Tokens, Personalities, Decorative and Applied Art and Social Hi

Thirlestane Castle, located in the Scottish town of Lauder, is a historic building with a rich history. It was initially built in the late 16th century and has undergone significant changes over the years. The Maitland family, who were the former earls of Lauderdale, remodeled the castle in the 1670s and further expanded it in the 1840s. This castle is one of the oldest inhabited castles in Scotland and is classified as a Category A building.

Taigh Chearsabhagh, located on the Scottish Hebridean island of North Uist, serves as a museum and art center. This historic building offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and contemporary art, providing visitors with an enriching experience of the island's history and artistic endeavors.

Holmwood House is a remarkable residential villa located in the southern suburbs of Glasgow. It was designed by the renowned Scottish architect Alexander "Greek" Thomson and is celebrated for its elaborate design and well-preserved original interior decor. As a Category A listed building, it holds significant historical and architectural value. The villa is open to the public and is currently owned by the National Trust for Scotland.

Groam House Museum is a museum in Rosemarkie. The museum features exhibits related to Social History, Archaeology, Decorative and Applied Art and Archives. Key themes, people and exhibits in the museum include The George Bain Collection.

Montrose Museum and Art Gallery features exhibits related to Religion, Social History, Archaeology, Music, Coins and Medals, Maritime, Trade and Commerce, Weapons and War, Decorative and Applied Art, Law and Order, Natural Sciences, Costume and Textiles, Personalities, Fine Art, Land Transport, Scie

The house underwent a complete reconstruction between 1901 and 1903, resulting in its current grandeur. One of the most striking features of the house is its silver-plated staircase, a testament to the opulence of the era and the wealth of the Palmer family. The interiors are equally sumptuous, offering visitors a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the early 20th century British aristocracy.

Alloa Tower is the ancestral home of the Earls of Mar. It is one of Scotland’s largest surviving medieval Tower houses with an important collection of portraits, silver and furniture; temporary exhibitions from family’s private collections. Features of the tower, where Queen Mary once stayed, includ

The Open Museum, located in Glasgow, Scotland, is a unique community museum that operates from the Glasgow Museums Resource Centre. This innovative museum concept aims to bring museum collections beyond the traditional confines of museum walls and into the wider Glasgow community. It is part of a larger network of ten museums under the umbrella of Glasgow Museums.

Meffan Museum and Art Gallery is a museum in Forfar. The museum features exhibits related to: land transport, archaeology, decorative and applied art, fine art, personalities, social history, science and technology, costume and textiles and coins and medals.

Rozelle House Galleries is a museum in Ayr. The museum features exhibits related to Social History, Costume and Textiles, Weapons and War, Archives, World Cultures, Natural Sciences, Medicine, Personalities, Archaeology, Coins and Medals, Fine Art and Decorative and Applied Art. Key themes, people a

J M Barrie's Birthplace is a museum in Kirriemuir. The museum features exhibits related to Personalities, Literature and Social History.

Nairn Museum is a museum in Nairn. The museum features exhibits related to Archives, Decorative and Applied Art, Social History, Fine Art, Archaeology, Costume and Textiles, Medicine, Coins and Medals and Personalities.

Sir Walter Scott's Courtroom is a museum in Selkirk. The museum features exhibits related to: personalities, archives, social history and fine art.

Mallaig Heritage Centre is a museum in Mallaig. The museum features exhibits related to Agriculture, Maritime, Archives, Personalities, Social History, Film and Media, Fine Art, Religion, Land Transport and Photography.

The St Andrews Museum is a cultural institution located in the town of St Andrews, Fife, Scotland. The museum's primary focus is on the history of the town, providing a comprehensive overview of its past and present.

Clydebank Museum and Art Gallery is a museum in Clydebank. The museum features exhibits related to: social history, fine art, archives and science and technology.

The St Vigeans Museum, located in the Scottish county of Angus, is home to a collection of cross-slabs, tombstones, and Pictish symbol stones. The collection comprises a total of 38 stones, some of which are fragmented. These historical artifacts provide a glimpse into the past, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore Scotland's rich history and cultural heritage.

Colzium House is a museum in Kilsyth. The museum features exhibits related to: fine art, weapons and war, costume and textiles, world cultures, natural sciences, archaeology, decorative and applied art, social history, archives and coins and medals.

Dunollie Museum is a museum in Oban. The museum features exhibits related to: decorative and applied art, social history, fine art, costume and textiles, coins and medals and world cultures.

Inverleith House is a historic building located within the Royal Botanic Garden in the suburb of Inverleith, Edinburgh, Scotland. This house, designed in 1773 by David Henderson and built for James Rocheid in 1774, offers a unique blend of history and nature. It was bought by the city in 1877 and has since undergone several restorations, including after a fire. Today, it serves as an exhibition space for the Royal Botanic Garden, showcasing both botanical and contemporary art.

St Cecilia's Hall, a small concert hall and museum, is situated in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. It is conveniently located on the corner of Niddry Street and the Cowgate, just about 168 metres south of the famous Royal Mile. This makes it easily accessible for tourists exploring the city.

The Reid Concert Hall is a quaint music venue nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. It is conveniently located in Bristo Square, just a short distance south of the famous Royal Mile. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists exploring the city's historic sites.

Banchory Museum is a museum in Banchory. The museum features exhibits related to Fine Art, Decorative and Applied Art, Costume and Textiles, Music, Social History, Natural Sciences and Personalities. Key themes, people and exhibits in the museum include J. Scott Skinner, the 'Strathspey King', Royal

The Lighthouse in Glasgow serves as Scotland's Centre for Design and Architecture. It was inaugurated in 1999, marking Glasgow's recognition as the UK City of Architecture and Design. This establishment is a significant landmark in the city, showcasing the rich architectural and design heritage of Scotland.

Visit this perfectly preserved cruck frame cottage and get a glimpse of Scottish village life in the 19th century. Moirlanich was home to at least three generations of the Robertson family, with the last member leaving in 1968. The building has hardly been changed and retains many of its original fe

Annan Museum is a museum in Annan. The museum features exhibits related to: world cultures, science and technology, archaeology, social history, fine art, archives and decorative and applied art.

Session Cottage Museum is a museum in Turriff. The museum features exhibits related to Costume and Textiles, Archives, Social History, Decorative and Applied Art and Fine Art.

Arbuthnot Museum and Gallery is a museum in Peterhead. The museum features exhibits related to Social History, Fine Art, Coins and Medals, Maritime, World Cultures, Archives and Land Transport. Key themes, people and exhibits in the museum include Northern Scotland's largest coin collections, Arctic

Glasgow Women's Library is a museum in Glasgow. The museum features exhibits related to: music, performing arts, architecture, film and media, literature, social history, religion, world cultures, archives, costume and textiles, law and order, design and photography.

Glasgow Sculpture Studios exists to promote the development of sculpture and to help artists develop a professional and sustainable career. With members whose experience and skills are as varied as the work they create, GSS supports an exploration of what contemporary sculpture is. Through offering

University of Stirling, Art Collection is a museum in Stirling. The museum features exhibits related to Fine Art.

Explore behind the scenes to discover some of the fascinating treasure from the University's collections. From fine art to furniture, intricate sculptures to coffee pots, the Collections Centre is the home to many of the thousands of fascinating objects from the University's Recognised Collections o

The Dundee Science Centre, previously known as Sensation, is a significant part of the Scottish Science Centres Network. It operates as a registered charity under Scottish law, making it a unique institution in the region. The centre's primary focus is on life sciences, particularly the senses, and robotics. It also offers a practical exploration of science learning, making it an engaging destination for those interested in these fields.