Edinburgh Guided Tour at Usher Hall
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural heart through the iconic Usher Hall and its rich musical heritage on an immersive guided tour.
Experience the cultural heart of Edinburgh with the Edinburgh Guided Tour, centered at the iconic Usher Hall on Lothian Road. This historic Edwardian concert hall, renowned for its superb acoustics and architectural grandeur, anchors a diverse cultural quarter featuring theaters and vibrant city life. The tour offers an immersive exploration of Edinburgh’s rich heritage, arts scene, and architectural highlights in a lively urban setting.
A brief summary to Edinburgh Guided Tour
- Usher Hall, Lothian Rd, Edinburgh, EH1 2EA, GB
- +447927904695
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-9 pm
- Thursday 9 am-9 pm
- Friday 9 am-9 pm
- Saturday 9 am-9 pm
- Sunday 9 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets for concerts and events at Usher Hall well in advance, especially for popular performances.
- Check accessibility options if you require wheelchair spaces or hearing assistance before your visit.
- Explore nearby theaters like the Royal Lyceum and Traverse to enrich your cultural experience.
- Visit during the Tremolo series to enjoy unique virtual performances by Scottish artists.
- Allow time to appreciate the architectural details and acoustics of this historic concert hall.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 3, 25, or 44, which serve stops near Usher Hall on Lothian Road. Travel times from Edinburgh city center range from 10 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £1.80–£2.00 GBP.
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Tram
Use the Edinburgh Trams to St Andrew Square, then transfer to a short bus ride or a 20-minute walk to Usher Hall. Tram tickets cost approximately £6.00 GBP for a single journey from the airport and less from city stops.
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Taxi
Taxis are widely available in Edinburgh city center, with a typical journey to Usher Hall taking 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £6 and £12 GBP. Accessible taxis can be requested for wheelchair users.
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Walking
From Edinburgh city center, walking to Usher Hall takes about 20–25 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, passing through vibrant cultural areas.
Edinburgh Guided Tour location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Edinburgh Guided Tour
A Historic Cultural Landmark in Edinburgh’s West End
Usher Hall, located on Lothian Road, is a distinguished Edwardian concert hall built between 1911 and 1914 thanks to a generous donation from brewer Andrew Usher. As a Grade A listed building, it stands as one of Edinburgh’s architectural jewels and a key cultural venue. The hall’s design blends traditional Edwardian elegance with a modern extension completed in 2010, maintaining its status as a premier European concert venue. It hosts a wide range of performances from classical music to rock, pop, jazz, and world music, attracting audiences of up to 2,200.The Edinburgh Guided Tour Experience
The Edinburgh Guided Tour uses Usher Hall as its cultural and historical focal point, offering visitors a deep dive into Edinburgh’s rich artistic and architectural heritage. The tour explores the surrounding cultural quarter, including the nearby Royal Lyceum and Traverse theatres, providing context on Edinburgh’s vibrant performing arts scene. Visitors gain insights into the hall’s remarkable acoustics and its role in Scotland’s music history, enhancing appreciation for the city’s cultural fabric.Architectural and Acoustic Excellence
Usher Hall is celebrated not only for its stunning Edwardian architecture but also for its world-class acoustics, making it Scotland’s only five-star concert hall. The venue’s interior features a grand auditorium with stalls, a grand circle, and an upper circle, each offering unique perspectives of the stage. Accessibility features include level access, wheelchair spaces, and a hearing loop system, ensuring an inclusive experience. The hall’s recent modernization respects its historic character while enhancing visitor comfort and technical capabilities.Vibrant Atmosphere and Community Engagement
Beyond concerts, Usher Hall fosters community and artistic innovation, exemplified by initiatives like Tremolo, a series of virtual intimate performances by Scottish artists held within the hall’s distinctive spaces. This blend of tradition and contemporary creativity makes the venue a dynamic cultural hub. The surrounding area buzzes with activity, from bustling theaters to cafes and bars, enriching the guided tour experience with a lively urban ambience.Planning Your Visit and Accessibility
The Edinburgh Guided Tour operates daily with Usher Hall as a central highlight, offering visitors a chance to explore Edinburgh’s cultural landmarks in comfort. The venue provides wheelchair access, assistance for hearing aid users, and support for assistance dogs. Nearby parking includes free blue badge spaces, though demand can be high due to multiple venues in the area. The tour is suitable for a wide range of visitors, including families, seniors, and solo travelers, with a focus on cultural heritage and urban exploration.Edinburgh’s Premier Cultural Quarter
Situated in one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant districts, the guided tour showcases the interplay of historic and modern elements that define the city’s cultural identity. Usher Hall’s prominence anchors this quarter, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in music, architecture, and the arts. The tour invites visitors to experience Edinburgh’s spirit through its landmarks, stories, and artistic traditions, all centered around this iconic concert hall.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.4 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
15 Charlotte Square
0.5 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Flodden Wall
0.6 km
Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
The Witches Well
0.6 km
A poignant cast iron memorial outside Edinburgh Castle honoring the thousands accused and executed as witches in Scotland’s dark past.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
0.6 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
Rose St
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Rose Street in Edinburgh, a perfect blend of local culture, dining, and shopping delights.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.7 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
Floral Clock
0.7 km
Discover the world's oldest floral clock—a vibrant, living timepiece blooming with history and horticultural artistry in Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street Gardens.
John Knox Monument
0.7 km
Explore the historic John Knox Monument, a stunning tribute to the Scottish Reformer, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich religious history.
Milne's Court
0.8 km
Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.8 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.8 km
Explore the mystical Thomas Riddell's Grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic site rich with tales of the past and connections to the Harry Potter universe.
The Dean Bridge
0.8 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
Gladstone's Land
0.8 km
Explore the historic charm of Gladstone's Land in Edinburgh, a captivating glimpse into Scotland's rich past with delightful cafes and stunning architecture.
The Writers' Museum
0.8 km
Explore The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh, a tribute to Scotland's literary greats and a treasure trove for literature lovers seeking inspiration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lothian Rd
0.0 km
Lothian Road pulses with Edinburgh’s cultural heartbeat, blending historic theatres, cinemas, and vibrant urban life beneath the shadow of the castle.
The Usher Hall
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s iconic Edwardian concert hall renowned for world-class acoustics and diverse performances in a majestic historic setting.
Innis & Gunn Edinburgh City Centre Brewery Taproom
0.1 km
Discover the craft of brewing at Innis & Gunn Brewery Taproom in Edinburgh, where great beer and live music create a unique atmosphere.
Escape Edinburgh
0.2 km
Dive into immersive escape rooms on Morrison Street, where clever puzzles and captivating stories await every team.
Edinburgh Farmers' Market
0.2 km
Discover fresh Scottish produce and artisanal delights every Saturday with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle at Castle Terrace Farmers' Market.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
0.2 km
Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
St. John's Church Hall
0.3 km
Historic Gothic church hall on Princes Street, blending stunning stained glass artistry with vibrant community events in Edinburgh’s New Town.
National War Museum
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s rich military history through artifacts, personal stories, and art within the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Regimental Museum
0.3 km
Explore over 300 years of Scotland’s only cavalry regiment in the historic New Barracks of Edinburgh Castle.
Ross Fountain
0.3 km
A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
One O’Clock Gun
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
St Margaret's Chapel
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s oldest building, a serene 12th-century chapel atop Castle Rock honoring Queen Margaret’s enduring spiritual legacy.
Edinburgh Castle - Mons Meg
0.4 km
Discover Mons Meg, the colossal 15th-century siege cannon at Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland’s medieval military might and royal heritage.
Great Hall
0.4 km
Step into the majestic Great Hall of Edinburgh Castle, a stunning medieval chamber showcasing royal history, architecture, and armory.
Edinburgh Castle
0.4 km
Explore Edinburgh Castle, a majestic fortress atop Castlehill offering royal history, breathtaking views, and iconic Scottish heritage.
Essential places to dine
Dine Edinburgh
0.1 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
The Pompadour
0.3 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
TIMBERYARD
0.3 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
Forage & Chatter
0.4 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
Aizle
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
BABA
0.5 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Badger & Co
0.5 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.6 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
The Palmerston
0.6 km
A stylish West End restaurant serving modern Scottish cuisine in a refined, relaxed setting just steps from Edinburgh’s city centre.
Beehive Inn
0.6 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
Contini George Street
0.6 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Amber Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.7 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Maison Bleue
0.7 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Howies Restaurant
0.8 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
One World Shop
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Poundland
0.3 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Herman Brown
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
ScotlandShop
0.4 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.4 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Edinburgh Art Shop
0.4 km
Edinburgh Art Shop offers a warm, expert-led art supply experience with quality materials and a creative community spirit in the heart of Edinburgh.
Godiva
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
Freak Unique
0.6 km
Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Emporium 62
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich heritage through unique antiques and collectibles at Emporium 62, a charming treasure trove on Home Street.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
0.6 km
Discover Scotland's rich textile heritage at the Tartan Weaving Mill, where history meets craftsmanship in a vibrant exhibition and unique shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
0.0 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
0.1 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
NQ64 Edinburgh
0.1 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
SKYbar Edinburgh
0.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
The Caley Bar
0.3 km
Step into The Caley Bar for a refined blend of Victorian railway heritage, bespoke cocktails, and Scotland’s finest whiskies in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Raging Bull
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Dragonfly
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Never Really Here
0.5 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
The Jolly Botanist
0.6 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
Copper Blossom
0.6 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
The Oxford Bar
0.6 km
Historic Edinburgh pub famed as Inspector Rebus’s haunt, offering timeless charm and a cozy, no-frills atmosphere in New Town.
Panda & Sons
0.6 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly