About Scotland's First Warriors
Who were Scotland’s first warriors?
This exhibition reveals the origins and impact of conflict in prehistoric Scotland.
Explore the first signs of organised warfare, from the Neolithic (late Stone Age) to the Romans, through over 200 objects.
'Scotland's First Warriors' explores how and why people fought, the impact of war, and the legacy of prehistoric conflict.
Internationally significant archaeological discoveries from Scotland will be on display for the first time.
Visitors will see the Carnoustie Hoard - which was deliberately and thoughtfully placed near a Bronze Age round structure. It includes a spearhead decorated with gold, and a bronze sword in a wooden scabbard. An exceptionally rare find, it dates from around 1120 - 920 BC.
The exhibition maps the journey from the sword - a Bronze Age invention - through to the Roman concept of a professional soldier.
'Scotland's First Warriors' is a unique exhibition that engages visitors with the very nature of war.
Exhibition highlights - the Carnoustie Hoard
Objects from the Carnoustie Hoard: a disc-headed pin, sword in wooden scabbard and spearhead.
The remains of a wooden scabbard made from strips of hazel wood. Part of the Carnoustie Hoard.
A bronze ring-mount, possibly once used as decoration or a fastening on a Bronze Age scabbard. Part of the Carnoustie Hoard.
Close up of the sheepskin wrapped around the spearhead, found in the Carnoustie Hoard.
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 get to the gallery by taking the stairs or lifts to Level 3 from Hawthornden Court.
The doors to the gallery are not automatic. You can open the doors by pulling them towards you.
Wheelchair access
There is significant space to use a wheelchair in the exhibition.
You can borrow a wheelchair from the information desks at the Entrance Hall and Tower Entrance. They cannot be booked in advance.
Seating
There are benches throughout the exhibition gallery.
If you require a folding stool, please ask a member of the Visitor Experience team.
Toilets and baby changing facilities
The nearest standard toilets are on Level 4. As you exit the exhibition gallery, go up the stairs and the toilets will be ahead of you.
The nearest accessible toilet is next to the Technology by Design gallery on Level 3.
The nearest baby changing facilities are next to the Technology by Design gallery on Level 3.
There is a Changing Places toilet in the Entrance Hall on Level 0. Please speak to a member of staff if you need assistance to get there.
Audiovisual information
There are several videos throughout this exhibition. All videos with spoken audio have British Sign Language interpretation and captions.
There is ambient noise of sword-fighting and fire crackling on loop in this exhibition.
Sensory resources
Large print guides
There are large print guides available as you enter the exhibition.
Sensory map
We have created a sensory map to show all the different sensory experiences in the exhibition.
Download a sensory map to help you find the areas best suited to you.
Visit our accessibility page for general access information for the National Museum of Scotland.
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