Old College, The University of Edinburgh
Historic neoclassical heart of the University of Edinburgh, crowned by the iconic Golden Boy dome and steeped in Scottish Enlightenment legacy.
Old College is the historic heart of the University of Edinburgh, located on South Bridge. This neoclassical architectural masterpiece, originally designed by Robert Adam in 1789 and completed by William Henry Playfair and Robert Rowand Anderson, features a grand courtyard, imposing dome topped by the Golden Boy statue, and houses the Edinburgh Law School. It symbolizes centuries of academic tradition and the Scottish Enlightenment legacy.
A brief summary to Old College, The University of Edinburgh
- University of Edinburgh, South Bridge, Edinburgh, EH8 9YL, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning to capture the beautiful sunrise lighting on the dome and facade for stunning photos.
- Explore the central courtyard for a peaceful spot to relax and reflect on the university’s rich history.
- Although interior access is restricted, admire the intricate architectural details visible from South Bridge.
- Look out for the Golden Boy statue atop the dome, symbolizing Youth and Enlightenment, a key university emblem.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several frequent bus routes serve South Bridge, with stops approximately 150 yards from Old College’s main entrance. Travel times from Edinburgh city center range from 5 to 15 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80 to £2.50 per journey. Buses are accessible but may be busy during peak hours.
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Train and Walking
Edinburgh Waverley Station is about a 15-minute walk from Old College. The route is mostly flat with paved sidewalks, suitable for wheelchair users. Walking offers a scenic introduction to the Old Town area.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services provide direct access to Old College from anywhere in Edinburgh, typically taking 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £6 to £15. Drop-off points are available near the South Bridge entrance.
Old College, 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 Old College, The University of Edinburgh
A Monument to Scottish Enlightenment and Academic Heritage
Old College stands as a monumental symbol of the University of Edinburgh's prestigious history and its role in the Scottish Enlightenment. Founded in 1583 by the Edinburgh Town Council, the university’s first purpose-built college was planned over two centuries later on the site of the former Kirk o' Field, a medieval church and hospital with deep historical significance. The foundation stone was laid in 1789, marking the beginning of a grand neoclassical structure intended to embody the university’s academic prominence.Architectural Vision and Evolution
The original design was crafted by Robert Adam, a leading neoclassical architect known for his work on Edinburgh’s New Town. Adam’s vision included a grand facade with monolithic Roman Doric columns and an octagonal lecture theatre. After Adam’s death in 1792, financial difficulties delayed construction until William Henry Playfair took over in the early 19th century, modifying and completing the building by 1827. Later, the iconic dome was added in 1887 by Robert Rowand Anderson, crowned by the Golden Boy statue symbolizing Youth and Enlightenment, sculpted by John Hutchison.The Courtyard and Memorials
At the core of Old College lies a spacious central quadrangle, a tranquil green space where students often relax. The west end features a memorial designed by Robert Lorimer, honoring university members who lost their lives in the World Wars, adding a poignant historical layer to the site. The courtyard’s classical architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a focal point of the university’s campus life.Academic Significance and Notable Alumni
Old College has been home to generations of scholars, including luminaries such as Charles Darwin and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Today, it houses the Edinburgh Law School, which underwent a major refurbishment completed in 2019, blending historic grandeur with modern academic facilities. The building’s proximity to Scotland’s highest courts and Parliament underscores its continuing importance in legal education and civic life.Location and Surroundings
Situated on South Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town, Old College is surrounded by a rich tapestry of historic streets and landmarks. Its imposing presence is a key feature of Edinburgh’s skyline, especially notable at sunrise when bathed in golden light. Though interior access is limited to university members, the exterior and courtyard are open to the public, offering ample opportunities for photography and appreciation of its architectural splendor.Legacy and Contemporary Role
Old College represents a fusion of Scotland’s academic heritage, architectural excellence, and cultural memory. It reflects the university’s evolution from its 16th-century origins through Enlightenment ideals to a modern research institution. The building continues to inspire students, staff, and visitors alike, standing as a testament to Edinburgh’s enduring intellectual and historical significance.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.
Heritage of Edinburgh
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Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
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Barrie's Close
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Pont George Ⅳ
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Greyfriars Bobby Statue
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The High Street Wellhead
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Mercat Cross
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Adam Smith Statue
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Museum of Childhood
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The University of Edinburgh
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Parliament Sqr
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Unmissable attractions to see
Stramash
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Edinburgh’s vibrant live music venue with nightly bands, late-night dancing, and Scotland’s largest HD sports screen in a unique historic setting.
South Bridge
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Cowgate
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Surgeons' Hall Museums
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South Bridge Vaults
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Explore Edinburgh’s eerie 18th-century South Bridge Vaults, where history, mystery, and the city’s dark past converge beneath the streets.
Auld Reekie Tours
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Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults and graveyards with award-winning, immersive guided tours blending history, mystery, and spine-tingling tales.
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.
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.
National Museum of Scotland
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Explore Scotland’s rich heritage and global stories in this vast, family-friendly museum at Edinburgh’s cultural heart.
Department Of Magic
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Monkey Barrel Comedy
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Edinburgh Old Town
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ScoziaTour.com
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Greyfriars Bobby's Bar
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Essential places to dine
The Piper's Rest
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The Cellar Door
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MUMS Great Comfort Food
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The Outsider Restaurant
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Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
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Under The Stairs
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Angels with Bagpipes
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La Locanda Edinburgh
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Monteiths
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The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
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Ondine Restaurant
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Ecco Vino
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Howies Restaurant
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The Devil's Advocate
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La Garrigue
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Enchanted Galaxy
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Galaxy
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The Scotland Shop
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Fringe Shop
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Crest Of Edinburgh
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scottish experience cashmere place
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The Wee Gift Shop
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James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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Heritage Clearance Store
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Real Scot Shop
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Pie In The Sky Ltd
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Eden
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Ragamuffin
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Mr Wood's Fossils
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Captain's Bar
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The Banshee Labyrinth
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Frankenstein
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Whistlebinkies
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Copper Still
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The Oz Bar
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Whiski Bar & Restaurant
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Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
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The World's End
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56 North
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The Bow Bar
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The Cocktail Geeks
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The Jolly Judge
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The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Mash House
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La Belle Angele
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Cabaret Voltaire
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The Hive Nightclub & Venue
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Sneaky Pete's
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Legends
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The Bongo Club
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The Liquid Room
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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
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
