Scottish National Portrait Gallery

The Scottish National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh is the national collection of portraits of Scotland’s people and was built in the late 19th century. The gallery was designed by architect Robert Rowand Anderson and opened in the 1880s as a national institution.

Galleries present painted and photographic portraits of monarchs, writers, scientists and public figures, with works that span several centuries. Key displays include portraits of figures such as Robert Burns and Mary, Queen of Scots alongside modern photographic commissions and contemporary interpretations. The building itself is often cited as part of the visitor experience because of its architecture and central exhibition spaces.

The gallery was created to collect and exhibit likenesses of notable Scots and has expanded its holdings and programming over time to include contemporary commissions, exhibitions, and education initiatives. Its collection and displays have been curated to trace Scottish history and identity through portraiture.

It stands in central Edinburgh on Queen Street near the eastern end of the New Town and a short walk from Princes Street and the Royal Mile, making it easily accessible from the city centre.

• Admission: Permanent collection galleries are free to enter; special exhibitions may require tickets and often have timed entries.

What to See #

• Main building (1889): A purpose-built Victorian-era structure that houses the national collection of portraits and is notable for its Gothic revival façade and interior galleries.