National Galleries of Scotland: Modern Two
Explore groundbreaking modern art and sculpture in Edinburgh’s inspiring Modern Two gallery, set within a stunning sculpture park.
Situated at 73 Belford Road in Edinburgh, Modern Two is part of the National Galleries of Scotland, showcasing a compelling collection of modern and early 20th-century art. Set within a beautiful sculpture park, the gallery offers visitors a journey through innovative, experimental, and abstract artworks, alongside striking outdoor sculptures. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, Modern Two provides a rich cultural experience complemented by dining options and research facilities.
A brief summary to National Galleries of Scotland: Modern Two
- 73 Belford Rd, Edinburgh, EH4 3DS, GB
- +441316246200
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy quieter galleries and make the most of the sculpture park.
- Book a table at Paolozzi’s Kitchen for a unique dining experience beside the iconic Vulcan sculpture.
- Use the Prints and Drawings Study Room by advance appointment for an in-depth look at graphic art collections.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore both indoor exhibitions and the expansive outdoor sculpture park.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the tram to Haymarket Station, then walk approximately 15 minutes to Modern Two along Palmerston Place and Belford Road. Frequent tram and bus services connect Edinburgh city centre to Haymarket. This option is cost-effective and accessible, with a typical journey time of 20-30 minutes from central Edinburgh.
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Car
Drive to Modern Two where visitor parking is available for £5 up to 4 hours or £9 for 4-8 hours. Disabled parking is free with a blue badge. Parking operates daily from 9:45am to 5:30pm. Note that overnight parking is not permitted.
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Cycling
Cycle from Princes Street West End to Modern Two in about 10 minutes via Shandwick Place and Palmerston Place. Bike parking is available at the gallery. This route is suitable for experienced cyclists comfortable with urban traffic.
National Galleries of Scotland: Modern Two 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 National Galleries of Scotland: Modern Two
A Distinctive Home for Modern Art
Modern Two is one of two gallery buildings that form the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art in Edinburgh, located at 73 Belford Road. This gallery focuses on artworks from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, highlighting experimentation, abstraction, and new artistic expressions that broke away from traditional styles. The building itself sits atop expansive green parkland, offering visitors both indoor and outdoor art experiences.Art and Sculpture in Harmony
The gallery is set within a captivating sculpture park that extends across the grounds of both Modern One and Modern Two. Visitors can admire sculptural works by renowned artists such as Dan Graham and Nathan Coley, which enhance the natural landscape and provide a dynamic dialogue between art and environment. The park is open daily from early morning until evening, inviting exploration beyond the gallery walls.Cultural and Culinary Experiences
Modern Two houses Paolozzi’s Kitchen, a restaurant named after the Scottish artist Eduardo Paolozzi. Here, guests can enjoy fresh, seasonal Italian-inspired dishes with a Scottish twist while dining beside Paolozzi’s iconic Vulcan sculpture. The gallery also offers a shop and research facilities, including the Prints and Drawings Study Room, which provides access to over 35,000 works on paper by appointment.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The gallery is fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking, toilets, and lifts throughout. Facilities such as baby changing, a hearing loop, and mobility aids are available to ensure an inclusive visit. Parking is available on-site for a fee, with free parking for blue badge holders. The grounds and galleries are open daily from 10am to 5pm, with last admissions at 4:45pm.Engaging Exhibitions and Events
Modern Two regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that vary in theme and scope, often featuring photography and contemporary works that provoke thought and dialogue. The gallery is part of a wider complex that includes Modern One, the Portrait Gallery, and the National Gallery, creating a rich cultural hub in Edinburgh dedicated to Scottish and international art.Setting and Surroundings
Located about 15 minutes’ walk from Princes Street and Haymarket Station, Modern Two is nestled in a tranquil yet vibrant area of Edinburgh. The surrounding parklands and gardens provide a peaceful retreat, making it an ideal destination for art lovers and those seeking a scenic cultural outing.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Dean Bridge
0.6 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
15 Charlotte Square
0.9 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
1.4 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
St Margaret's Chapel
1.5 km
Experience the tranquility of St Margaret's Chapel, the oldest chapel in Edinburgh, nestled within the historic Edinburgh Castle, a spiritual gem for every traveler.
Edinburgh Castle
1.6 km
Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland's heritage with stunning views, rich history, and cultural treasures.
Scottish National War Memorial
1.6 km
Explore the Scottish National War Memorial, a poignant tribute within Edinburgh Castle honoring the valor and sacrifice of Scottish soldiers across history.
Great Hall
1.6 km
Explore The Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle, a stunning historical landmark showcasing Scotland's royal heritage and architectural beauty.
Royal Palace
1.6 km
Discover the Royal Palace of Edinburgh: a historical landmark showcasing Scotland's royal heritage, breathtaking architecture, and stunning gardens in the heart of the city.
Princes Street Gardens
1.6 km
Explore the enchanting Princes Street Gardens, where lush landscapes meet iconic views of Edinburgh Castle in the heart of Scotland's capital.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
1.6 km
Discover the rich military history and breathtaking views of the Forward and Half Moon Battery at Edinburgh Castle, a must-see for every traveler.
Floral Clock
1.7 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.
Statue of King George Ⅳ
1.7 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
The India Cross
1.7 km
Discover The India Cross in Edinburgh, a historical landmark that showcases the city's cultural connections with India amidst stunning surroundings.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
1.7 km
Uncover the beauty and biodiversity at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a serene retreat showcasing thousands of plant species in a stunning natural setting.
The Witches Well
1.8 km
A poignant cast iron memorial outside Edinburgh Castle honoring the thousands accused and executed as witches in Scotland’s dark past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dean Cemetery
0.2 km
A serene Victorian garden cemetery in Edinburgh, rich with historic monuments and the resting place of Scotland’s cultural icons.
National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One
0.2 km
Explore captivating modern and contemporary art in a historic neoclassical gallery set within stunning sculpture gardens in Edinburgh.
Water of Leith Weir
0.3 km
A serene and historic riverside retreat near Dean Village, blending nature, heritage, and tranquil waters in the heart of Edinburgh.
Dean Village
0.4 km
Discover Dean Village, Edinburgh’s tranquil historic milling village with cobbled streets, scenic river views, and timeless Victorian charm.
Water of Leith Walkway
0.4 km
A serene 13-mile riverside trail weaving through Edinburgh’s history, nature, and culture from Balerno to Leith.
Well Court
0.4 km
Discover Well Court, a beautifully restored Victorian Arts and Crafts social housing gem nestled in Edinburgh’s tranquil Dean Village.
West End
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s West End, where historic grandeur meets vibrant culture in a charming city district full of art, architecture, and scenic beauty.
St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s tallest Victorian Gothic cathedral, renowned for its soaring spires, stunning stained glass, and vibrant spiritual heritage.
St. Bernard's Well
0.9 km
An exquisite 18th-century Greco-Roman temple over a healing spring, blending classical beauty with Edinburgh’s rich spa heritage.
The Georgian House
1.0 km
Step back into 18th-century Edinburgh life in this exquisitely restored Georgian townhouse filled with authentic period furnishings and stories.
Charlotte Square
1.1 km
Charlotte Square: Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian masterpiece, home to historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and Scotland’s First Minister.
St. John's Church Hall
1.1 km
Historic Gothic church hall on Princes Street, blending stunning stained glass artistry with vibrant community events in Edinburgh’s New Town.
Stockbridge Market
1.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant Sunday market offering fresh local produce, street food, crafts, and a lively community atmosphere in charming Stockbridge.
Fountain Park
1.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant leisure complex offering bowling, trampolining, cinema, dining, and arcade fun for all ages in a lively urban setting.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
1.2 km
Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Palmerston
0.8 km
A stylish West End restaurant serving modern Scottish cuisine in a refined, relaxed setting just steps from Edinburgh’s city centre.
Forage & Chatter
0.9 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
Locanda de Gusti
0.9 km
Authentic Neapolitan seafood and Italian flavours served in a cozy, homely setting on Edinburgh’s Dalry Road.
First Coast Restaurant
1.0 km
Modern Scottish cuisine in a relaxed West End neighbourhood setting, celebrating local ingredients and attentive hospitality.
The Pompadour
1.1 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
Aizle
1.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
BABA
1.1 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Purslane Restaurant
1.3 km
Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
Badger & Co
1.3 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Dine Edinburgh
1.3 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
1.3 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Contini George Street
1.3 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
TIMBERYARD
1.5 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
The Table
1.7 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
1.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ScotlandShop
0.9 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
CIRCUS Vintage and Curios
1.0 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and curiosities in Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge at CIRCUS Vintage and Curios.
One World Shop
1.1 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
Scottish Design Exchange
1.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
Those Were The Days Vintage
1.3 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
The Treasure Trove
1.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
1.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
Poundland
1.4 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Edinburgh Gifts
1.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Carnivàle Vintage
1.5 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Herman Brown
1.5 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Portcullis Gift Shop
1.6 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Edinburgh Art Shop
1.6 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.
Freak Unique
1.6 km
Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Greyfriars Art
1.6 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Jolly Botanist
0.8 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
1.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
The Caley Bar
1.1 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.
Panda & Sons
1.1 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.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
1.2 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
NQ64 Edinburgh
1.2 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
Dirty Dick's Pub
1.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
1.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Last Word
1.3 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Copper Blossom
1.3 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Never Really Here
1.4 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
The Raging Bull
1.4 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
SKYbar Edinburgh
1.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
Lucky Liquor Co
1.4 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
PDT Please Don’t Tell
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
1.2 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
Club Tropicana
1.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.4 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Opal Lounge
1.6 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
1.7 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
El Barrio Latino
1.7 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Shanghai Nightclub
1.8 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
1.8 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
The Liquid Room
1.9 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
2.0 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
2.1 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
2.1 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Mash House
2.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
2.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
