National Museum of Scotland
About National Museum of Scotland
One of Edinburgh's most versatile large venues, the museum has an unrivalled collection of gallery spaces and private rooms to accommodate from 12 to 1,500 guests. The iconic building is located in the heart of the city, just moments from Waverley Station and links to Edinburgh Airport, the perfect destination for entertaining in Scotland.
Christmas at National Museum of Scotland
Festive parties, seasonal menus and memorable moments. Plan a Christmas celebration at National Museum of Scotland that feels effortless from first enquiry to final toast.
Spaces at
National Museum of Scotland
Find the perfect setting for your next event at National Museum of Scotland.
Grand Gallery & Entrance Hall
Up to 1,500Up to 1,500 reception / 1,200 dining
The iconic centrepiece of the museum, featuring a soaring glass atrium and sweeping staircases. This breathtaking space is ideal for large-scale receptions, gala dinners and awards ceremonies, while the adjacent Entrance Hall offers a stunning setting for pre- and post-event drinks receptions.
Rooftops
Up to 150Up to 150 reception
Located on Level 5, this highly photogenic space offers floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views across Edinburgh’s Old Town and Castle. Perfect for breakfast meetings, private dining, receptions and summer events.
Board & Bute Rooms
Up to 50Up to 50 reception / 24 boardroom
A suite of elegant, private rooms arranged across three levels, ideal for meetings, private dining and smaller events. The circular Bute Room offers a distinctive setting, while the Boardroom provides panoramic city views and access to a private roof terrace.
Hawthornden Court & Kingdom of the Scots Gallery
Up to 700Up to 700 reception / 120 dining
A contemporary atrium space with striking architecture, ideal for drinks receptions, dinners and entertainment. The adjoining gallery enhances the experience with immersive storytelling, creating a unique cultural setting for guests.
Early People Gallery
Up to 700Up to 700 reception / 120 dining
An atmospheric gallery space steeped in history, featuring ancient artefacts and dramatic installations. Ideal for themed dinners and receptions with a strong sense of place and storytelling.
Discoveries & Other Galleries
Up to 300Up to 300 reception
A selection of diverse gallery spaces offering unique backdrops - from innovation and science to world cultures. Perfect for informal networking events, private views and immersive guest experiences.
Auditorium Complex
Up to 200Up to 200 theatre
A purpose-built auditorium ideal for conferences, presentations and award ceremonies. Includes access to the South Hall Gallery for breakout sessions, catering and exhibition space.
Get in touch
It's time to make your event a reality, our dedicated team is here to help you get started.
Your questions, answered
Accessibility varies by venue and by event space. Share your access requirements when enquiring and we will recommend suitable venues and provide access details.
Cancellation terms depend on the venue, event type and contracted package. Full terms will be confirmed in your proposal and booking contract.
Pets are not usually permitted in event or hospitality areas, except assistance dogs. Please confirm any requirements with the team before booking.
Please contact the venue directly with details of the lost item and your visit date, and the onsite team will advise if it has been handed in.
Opening hours vary by venue and event. Please check the individual venue page or contact us with your preferred venue and event date.
On-site parking varies by venue. Please check the relevant venue page or include parking requirements in your enquiry so we can advise.
AV facilities vary by venue and event space, from screens and microphones to full production support. Tell us what you need and we will confirm suitable options.
Wi-Fi is available at many venues, but provision and capacity vary. Please include your connectivity requirements in your enquiry.
Yes, absolutely, enquire now.
Use Send Enquiry or central inbox.
Provisional holds may be available depending on the venue and date. Please enquire with your preferred date and we will confirm availability and hold terms.
Please include your preferred venue or location, event date, guest numbers, event type, catering needs, room layout and any AV or accessibility requirements.
We recommend enquiring as early as possible, especially for peak dates. Short-notice enquiries are welcome and we will always advise what is available.
Many venues can support hybrid or virtual elements through onsite or partner AV teams. Share your technical requirements and we will recommend suitable options.
Yes. Our teams can support venue selection, catering, event details and introductions to trusted suppliers depending on the venue and brief.
Supplier policies vary by venue. Some venues have approved or preferred suppliers, while others can accommodate external suppliers subject to approval.
Yes, many venues have preferred supplier lists covering areas such as production, floristry, entertainment and photography. We can share options during planning.
Accommodation availability varies by venue and location. We can advise on nearby hotels or venues with accommodation where relevant.
Outdoor event options vary by venue, space, season and licensing. Please share your plans and we will advise on suitable venues and contingency options.
Staffing, security and cloakroom requirements vary by venue and event type. Your proposal will set out what is included and any additional costs.
Yes. Please tell us about dietary, religious or cultural requirements when enquiring so our chefs can advise on suitable menu options.
Yes. Sustainable menu options may be available, including seasonal ingredients and lower-impact choices. Availability varies by venue and event brief.
Branding and signage options vary by venue and must follow venue guidelines. Share your requirements and we will confirm what is possible.
Minimum guest numbers or minimum spends may apply depending on the venue, space, date and package. We will confirm these in your proposal.
Yes. Capacities vary by venue, room layout and event style. We can provide seated, standing and layout-specific capacities during your enquiry.
Located in the heart of Edinburgh's historic city centre, the National Museum of Scotland is easily accessible by road, rail and air, making it a convenient venue for guests travelling from across the UK and internationally.
By Train: Edinburgh Waverley Station is approximately 500 yards from the museum and can be reached on foot in around 10 minutes.
By Car: The venue is easily accessible via the M8 from the west and the A1 from the south, with a range of city centre parking options available nearby.
By Air: Edinburgh Airport is located approximately seven miles from the museum and offers excellent domestic and international connections.
Parking & Travel Information
Situated within Edinburgh's city centre, the National Museum of Scotland benefits from excellent public transport links and is within easy walking distance of key transport hubs. Guests are encouraged to use public transport where possible, particularly during busy periods and major events.
Amenities
- Bespoke catering delivered by Heritage Portfolio
- Flexible options from private dining to large-scale banqueting
- Opportunity to create themed experiences inspired by the museum’s collections
- Fully equipped auditorium with AV and technical support
- Flexible event spaces for presentations, conferences and live events
- Additional breakout and exhibition areas available
- Located in Edinburgh’s Old Town on Chambers Street
- Excellent transport links via rail and road
- Central location within walking distance of key city attractions
Discover the latest news
Explore the latest updates, announcements and stories from across our venues. From new experiences and seasonal highlights to behind-the-scenes insights, you'll find everything you need to stay connected in one place.
Henley Royal Regatta
We are proud to offer access to official Henley Royal Regatta hospitality, providing businesses…
Welcome to our news
Updates, announcements and stories from across the Prestige Venues and Events collection.
Corporate Event Venues: What Planners Need From Modern Spaces
Why Venue Choice Matters for Today’s Corporate Events As an event organiser, you know…
Our accreditations
We are proud to hold industry-leading accreditations and have been consistently recognised for our commitment to event delivery, hospitality and team development.
Beam
Beam is the UK's leading association for the business events, accommodation and meetings sector. As proud members, we align with Beam's commitment to best practice, quality assurance, and industry advocacy. Being part of this network connects us with sector-leading professionals, supports continuous development and helps ensure our clients benefit from trusted, compliant and forward-thinking event delivery.
MIA
MIA is the UK's foremost trade body for meetings and events, setting nationally recognised standards through its AIM Secure accreditation. Membership demonstrates our dedication to safety, service excellence and sustainability. Through MIA's training, research and industry representation, we stay at the forefront of best practice giving our clients confidence that their events are delivered to the highest professional standards.
Green Meetings
Green Meetings is the UK's benchmark sustainability standard for the meetings and events industry. As part of our commitment to responsible event delivery, we follow Green Meetings principles to minimise environmental impact and champion sustainable practices across our venues. This framework supports us in reducing waste, improving energy efficiency and helping clients create events that are both impactful and environmentally conscious.
Stadium Experience
Stadium Experience is a national collaboration of UK sports venues championing excellence in conference and events delivery. As members, we work alongside leading stadiums to share best practice, elevate industry standards and celebrate innovation through initiatives such as the annual Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards. Our involvement reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional event experiences, high-quality service, and standout hospitality within world-class sporting environments.
Got a quick question?
We're here to help with the small details to make your visit smooth. If you're looking for opening times, accessibility info, or lost property, check our FAQs or reach out below.
Please note: For event bookings, private hire, or partnership inquiries, please use our dedicated Enquiry Form so we can get you to the right department.
Address
Chambers Street
EH1 1JF