Collection Centre Tours

Discover the secrets of how we store and research our collections. Find out how our collections are used in international research and see objects rarely on public display.

There are two tours on offer:

• Scottish History & Culture features treasures from our archaeological collections and industrial objects from more recent history
• Natural World explores some of the unique specimens from Scotland's diverse and abundant natural world.

Advance booking is essential. For ages 14+.

On the day

• Please arrive between 5 - 15 minutes before your tour is scheduled to start. When you arrive, please report to Reception at the Gatehouse building on the right hand side of the entrance barrier.  The pedestrian entrance for the site is the small gate to the right of the larger metal gates for vehicles.
• There is no visitor parking available but there is on-street parking nearby. Further information on parking can be found at www.edinburgh.gov.uk/parking. 
• Parking for bicycles is available.
• A number of buses run to the Collections Centre. More details can be found at www.lothianbuses.com. 
• Ticket booking is not possible at the Collection Centre.   

Accessibility and facilities

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

Our Collection Centre is a working site which we are transforming to enable better public access.   

• Our tours involve a lot of standing and walking
• The route is step-free and a small number of portable stools are available, on request
• The tours move between buildings, so please dress for the weather

Assistance contact

If you will be using a wheelchair, an assistance dog, require disabled parking or have any other access requirements, please email us in advance of the tour at publicevents@nms.ac.uk.