The Usher Hall, Edinburgh's Premier Concert Venue
Edinburgh’s historic Edwardian concert hall blending superb acoustics with diverse performances in the city’s vibrant cultural quarter.
The Usher Hall is a magnificent Edwardian concert hall located on Lothian Road in Edinburgh. Renowned for its superb acoustics and historic charm, it hosts a diverse range of performances including classical, rock, jazz, and folk music. With a seating capacity of up to 2,200, the venue blends heritage architecture with modern enhancements, making it a cultural cornerstone of Edinburgh’s vibrant arts scene.
A brief summary to The Usher Hall
- Lothian Rd, Edinburgh, EH1 2EA, GB
- +441312281155
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book seats in the Stalls for the best legroom and easy access, especially if you require wheelchair transfer or walking aid accommodation.
- Use the main entrance via the glass wing for level access and power-assisted doors.
- If you have mobility issues or use a wheelchair, consider arriving via Grindlay Street where level access and blue badge parking are available.
- Take advantage of the hearing loop system by switching hearing aids to the 'T' position for enhanced audio.
- Explore the Tremolo series of intimate virtual concerts showcasing Scottish artists in unique areas of the hall.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several frequent bus routes serve Lothian Road, including routes 3, 25, and 45, connecting the venue to Edinburgh city centre and suburbs. Travel times range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on starting point. Tickets cost approximately £1.80 to £3.50 one way. Buses run regularly throughout the day but may be less frequent late at night.
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Tram
The Edinburgh Trams stop at Princes Street, about a 10-minute walk from Usher Hall. Trams run every 7-10 minutes during peak times, with journey times from the airport around 30 minutes. Single tickets cost about £6.50 from the airport and £1.80 within the city zone.
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Taxi
Taxis provide a convenient option, especially for those with mobility needs. Typical journey times from central Edinburgh are 5-15 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £6 to £12. Accessible vehicles are available on request.
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Walking
The Usher Hall is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town. Walking times from Princes Street or Edinburgh Waverley station are approximately 15-20 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The route is suitable for most mobility levels.
The Usher Hall 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 The Usher Hall
A Historic Landmark in Edinburgh’s Cultural Heart
The Usher Hall, situated on Lothian Road, stands as one of Edinburgh’s most iconic concert venues. Opened in 1914, it was commissioned by Andrew Usher, a prominent local benefactor. This Edwardian building has since become a Grade A listed structure, symbolizing the city’s rich cultural heritage. Over the decades, the hall has hosted a wide variety of events, from classical concerts and jazz to rock, pop, and spoken word performances, solidifying its reputation as a versatile and prestigious venue.Architectural Elegance Meets Modern Innovation
The hall’s architecture combines Edwardian grandeur with contemporary updates, notably a bold extension completed in 2010 that enhanced its facilities while preserving its historic character. Inside, the auditorium is celebrated for its exceptional acoustics, favored by performers and audiences alike. The seating arrangement accommodates up to 2,200 guests across several levels, including the Stalls, Grand Circle, and Upper Circle, each offering distinct views and atmospheres. The venue’s design thoughtfully balances aesthetic beauty with functional comfort.Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Accessibility is a key feature of the Usher Hall. The main entrance offers level access with power-assisted doors, and lifts serve all levels of the building. Wheelchair spaces are available in both the Stalls and Grand Circle, with staff support for transfers and assistance dogs warmly welcomed. The venue also includes accessible toilets and a sensory room for visitors requiring a calm space. Hearing aid users benefit from a loop system, and venue staff are attentive to the needs of all guests to ensure an inclusive experience.A Hub for Diverse Musical Experiences
The Usher Hall’s programming is broad and dynamic, hosting everything from the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Royal Scottish National Orchestra to international rock and pop acts. Its stage has seen legendary performances and continues to be a vibrant platform for emerging and established artists. The venue also supports innovative projects like Tremolo, a series of intimate virtual concerts spotlighting Scottish talent, reflecting its commitment to evolving cultural expressions.Atmosphere and Surroundings
Located in Edinburgh’s West End cultural quarter, the Usher Hall is flanked by the Royal Lyceum and Traverse theatres, creating a rich artistic neighborhood. The hall’s grand facade and elegant interior spaces contribute to a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Visitors often remark on the blend of historic charm with lively, modern energy that permeates the venue, making it a memorable place to attend performances or simply soak in the cultural ambiance.Planning Your Visit and Practical Details
The venue provides a range of amenities including bars with step-free access in some areas, seating in foyer spaces, and staff assistance for drink orders in less accessible bars. While some upper levels may not suit those with mobility challenges or vertigo, the hall offers excellent options for comfortable viewing and enjoyment. The Usher Hall’s location in central Edinburgh makes it easily reachable by foot, bike, or public transport, integrating seamlessly into the city’s vibrant cultural life.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.
Flodden Wall
0.5 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.
15 Charlotte Square
0.6 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
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.
The Georgian House
0.6 km
Discover the elegance of 18th-century life at The Georgian House, a historical museum in Edinburgh's charming Charlotte Square.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.6 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
Rose St
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Rose Street in Edinburgh, a perfect blend of local culture, dining, and shopping delights.
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.
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.
Milne's Court
0.7 km
Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.7 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 Mound & Mound Place
0.7 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
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.
Lady Stair's House
0.8 km
Explore Lady Stair's House: A historic 17th-century building in Edinburgh celebrating Scotland's rich literary heritage and home to the Scottish Poetry Library.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
Edinburgh Guided Tour
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural heart through the iconic Usher Hall and its rich musical heritage on an immersive guided tour.
Lothian Rd
0.1 km
Lothian Road pulses with Edinburgh’s cultural heartbeat, blending historic theatres, cinemas, and vibrant urban life beneath the shadow of the castle.
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
0.3 km
Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
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.
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.
Ross Fountain
0.4 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.
Great Hall
0.4 km
Step into the majestic Great Hall of Edinburgh Castle, a stunning medieval chamber showcasing royal history, architecture, and armory.
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
0.4 km
Explore Edinburgh Castle, a majestic fortress atop Castlehill offering royal history, breathtaking views, and iconic Scottish heritage.
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.
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.
TIMBERYARD
0.2 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
The Pompadour
0.3 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
Forage & Chatter
0.5 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
Aizle
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
Beehive Inn
0.5 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
BABA
0.5 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Badger & Co
0.6 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.
Amber Restaurant
0.6 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
0.6 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
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.
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
Carnivàle Vintage
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Poundland
0.2 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.
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.
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.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.4 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
ScotlandShop
0.5 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
Godiva
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Freak Unique
0.5 km
Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
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.
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.
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
0.1 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 Raging Bull
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
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.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
0.4 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
0.4 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
0.5 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
0.6 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
0.7 km
Historic Edinburgh pub famed as Inspector Rebus’s haunt, offering timeless charm and a cozy, no-frills atmosphere in New Town.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.7 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
