About Annual Open Evening

Join us for the Annual Open Evening. 

Find out more about our collections and the work that we do across all our museums. The event will be hosted by Ian Russell, our Chair, and Dr Chris Breward, our Director.

Dr Anna Groundwater will also present on the upcoming exhibition, 'Mary, Queen of Scots: Renaissance and Resistance'. The exhibition will open at the National Museum of Scotland in 2027. 

Following presentations there will be the opportunity to ask questions.

Good to know

  • Entry to this event is via the Lothian St entrance from 18:00, not the Main Entrance on Chambers St
  • Tea and coffee will be served on arrival. The presentation will begin at 18:30. 

Accessibility and facilities

We want everyone who comes to our museums to enjoy their time with us and make the most of their visit. 

How to get to the space

You can make your way to the Auditorium by walking through the Lothian Entrance. There is a ramp on the left-hand side once you enter the building.

The door to the Auditorium is not automatic and cannot be opened by a push pad. During an event it may already be open or you can open it by pulling it towards you. 

Wheelchair access

There are four designated spaces for wheelchairs in the Auditorium. Two are at the front on Level 1 and two are at the back on Level 2. You can access the upper spaces by taking the lift next to the Auditorium. A staff member will be available to give directions to the lift. 

These spaces can be booked in advance. Please contact events@nms.ac.uk to book a designated wheelchair space. 

There is significant space to use a wheelchair in the Auditorium. 

Please ask a member of staff if you'd like to borrow a wheelchair after you've arrived. They cannot be booked in advance. 

Seating

Seats in the Auditorium are fixed and tiered. There are steps and handrails on either side of the seating rows. 

The seats are cushioned and have arm rests on either side. 

There is 18cm of leg room between rows. 

If you require a seat at the front or near the front, please get in touch atevents@nms.ac.uk 

Hearing induction loops

There is an induction loop in the Auditorium. 

Toilets and baby changing

The nearest toilets are on Level 1 next to the Lothian Street Entrance. There are standard toilets and an accessible toilet. A baby changing table is located in the accessible toilet. 

If you require a changing places toilet, please ask a member of staff. 

Visit our accessibility page for general access information for the National Museum of Scotland. 

Get in touch 

If you have any questions about this event, please get in touch by: