Talbot Rice Gallery, University of Edinburgh
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art within the historic grandeur of Edinburgh University’s Old College at Talbot Rice Gallery.
Talbot Rice Gallery, located within the historic Old College of the University of Edinburgh, is a premier contemporary art gallery established in 1975. It features a unique blend of modern white cube exhibition spaces and a stunning neoclassical Georgian gallery. The gallery hosts three to four annual exhibitions showcasing international and local artists, complemented by artist residencies and thematic group shows. Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural hub in Edinburgh’s city centre.
A brief summary to Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
- University of Edinburgh, The University of, South Bridge, Edinburgh, EH8 9YL, GB
- +441316502210
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- 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
Local tips
- Admission is free, but check the gallery’s website for current exhibition schedules and opening times.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will spend time standing and walking through the exhibition spaces.
- The gallery offers wheelchair access and assistance; contact staff for support with lifts and stair lifts.
- Combine your visit with a stroll around the Old College Quadrangle to enjoy its historic architecture.
- Engage with the gallery’s events program for talks and workshops to deepen your understanding of the exhibitions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple bus routes including 3, 5, 7, 8, 14, 29, 30, 31, 33, 35, 45, 49, 51, 52, N3, N30, N37, X29, X62, and X95 stop within a 2-minute walk on South Bridge. Typical travel times from central Edinburgh locations range from 10 to 25 minutes. Single fares cost approximately £1.80–£2.00. Frequent service makes this a convenient option.
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Train and Walking
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, a 15-minute walk through the city centre leads to the gallery at Old College, South Bridge. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
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Taxi
Taxis can drop off visitors at the Old College entrance on West College Street. Travel times from central Edinburgh are typically 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi fares generally range from £5 to £10.
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Car
Limited paid on-street parking is available near the gallery, but spaces are scarce and often restricted. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport or walking where possible to avoid parking difficulties.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh 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 Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
Historic Setting and Architectural Grandeur
Talbot Rice Gallery is housed in the University of Edinburgh’s Old College, a neoclassical masterpiece originally designed by Robert Adam and completed by William Henry Playfair. The building’s historic significance is palpable, with the Georgian Gallery once serving as a 19th-century natural history museum, where a young Charles Darwin studied. This grand setting provides a dramatic and elegant backdrop for contemporary art exhibitions, blending heritage with modern creativity.Contemporary Art and Dynamic Exhibitions
Since its establishment in 1975, Talbot Rice has become a vital centre for contemporary visual art and intellectual discourse. The gallery operates two main exhibition spaces: a modern white cube space designed for cutting-edge art presentations, and the historic Georgian Gallery, which offers a striking contrast. It hosts three to four exhibitions annually, featuring solo shows by internationally acclaimed artists such as Céline Condorelli, Samson Young, Lucy Skaer, and John Akomfrah. Group exhibitions often explore pressing social and political themes including female empowerment, pandemic impacts, and Brexit-related border issues.Engagement and Educational Programs
Beyond exhibitions, Talbot Rice Gallery actively engages the public through a diverse events program including talks, workshops, and an Artist in Residence scheme. These initiatives foster interaction between artists, academics, and visitors, enriching the cultural experience. The gallery also offers tailored activities for families and children, making it a welcoming space for all ages interested in art and creativity.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Situated in the heart of Edinburgh, the gallery is accessible via the Old College Quadrangle with an entrance on West College Street. It provides wheelchair access via lifts and stair lifts, although some areas like the Georgian Gallery balcony have limited wheelchair access due to narrow walkways. Facilities include restrooms and seating, with staff available to assist visitors with additional needs. Admission is free, encouraging wide public participation in its artistic offerings.Support and Cultural Importance
Talbot Rice Gallery sustains its artistic program through fundraising and grants from Creative Scotland, the Mondriaan Fonds, Culture Ireland, the Freelands Foundation, and the Arts and Humanities Research Council. Its role as a university gallery enriches academic research by linking exhibitions with university collections and scholarly inquiry, positioning it as a key cultural institution in Edinburgh’s vibrant art scene.Location and Surroundings
Nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, the gallery is close to numerous other cultural landmarks, including the City Art Centre and the Museum of Childhood. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Old College Quadrangle before exploring the gallery’s diverse exhibitions. Its central location makes it a convenient and enriching stop for art lovers visiting the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
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Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
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Heritage of Edinburgh
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Pont George Ⅳ
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Unmissable attractions to see
Stramash
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Cowgate
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National Museum of Scotland
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Surgeons' Hall Museums
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South Bridge
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The Three Sisters
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Experience a lively blend of Scottish hospitality, vibrant live music, and delicious food at The Three Sisters in Edinburgh's Cowgate.
South Bridge Vaults
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Auld Reekie Tours
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Mercat Tours
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St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room & Music Museum, The University of Edinburgh
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Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall, now a museum of historic instruments and intimate live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Edinburgh Old Town
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Greyfriars Bobby's Bar
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McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
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City Of The Dead Tours
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Essential places to dine
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The Cellar Door
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La Locanda Edinburgh
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Ecco Vino
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Maison Bleue
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Galaxy
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The Scotland Shop
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Fringe Shop
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James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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scottish experience cashmere place
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The Wee Gift Shop
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Mr Wood's Fossils
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Bongo Club
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The Liquid Room
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El Barrio Latino
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Opal Lounge
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Garibaldi's
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The Shack Retro Bar & Club
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Club Tropicana
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
