Things to do on a rainy day in Edinburgh
By Lauren, from Scotland, studying Politics
As Edinburgh gets a lot of rain, the city is luckily prepared for a lot of your rainy-day needs, regardless of where you are in the city. My go-to choice for when the weather just won’t give in is visiting a museum or gallery in the city.
National Museum of Scotland
Just a five-minute walk from Bristo Square, you can find the National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street. I’ve spent countless days, both as a kid and adult, exploring all the different exhibits and never get bored. Make sure you pop by to see Dolly the Sheep as well!
View National Museum of Scotland website
National Portrait Gallery
If you’re more into paintings and photography, the National Portrait Gallery will blow you away with its artwork. Plus, once you’re finished, the St James Quarter shopping centre is a five-minute walk away! I would also highly recommend the soup here, which changes every day.
View National Portrait Gallery website
National Gallery of Scotland
If older artwork is more your style, you have to check out the National Gallery of Scotland. Here you can find sculptures, paintings, and the famous painting ‘The Skating Minister’ by Henry Raeburn. This is great to visit if you are feeling overwhelmed on Princes Street, or if you get rained on while out shopping with your friends.
View National Gallery of Scotland website
Modern One and Modern Two
Not to be confused with the above, the National Gallery of Scotland: Modern One and Modern Two are hidden gems. They are a little off the beaten path but well worth a visit if you’re into modern art that doesn’t feel too pretentious. Modern Two also has different exhibits depending on the time of year, so check out their website for more up-to-date information.
View Modern One and Modern Two website
(National Museum of Scotland photo by, Clément Proust, Pexels)
