Private tours and experiences
We offer private group tours of the National Museum of Scotland, curated and delivered by award-winning Mercat Tours.
Mercat Tours storytellers explore the unique Scotland Galleries telling the story of our nation through the objects that have shaped Scotland’s past, present and future.
Tour themes
There are five different themes to suit all itineraries and client interests:
- A history of Scotland in 10 objects
- What makes a Scot?
- Scotland’s dark history
- Exploding the myths
- Symbols of Scotland
Mercat Tours can include Tour Talk audio headsets for a fully immersive experience.
Rates are exclusive to travel trade, inclusive of VAT, and valid to 31 March 2027.
Tour packages
Daytime museum tour
When: 10:00 – 17:00
Tour duration: 1 hour
Tour fee: £350 plus £6 pp, catering from £6.50 for pre-booked groups
A private group tour given by an experienced Mercat Tours storyteller. Coffee and pastries catering available.
Contact to book
Email:groups@mercattours.com
Phone: 0131 225 5445
Premium pre-opening tours
When: Early access at 09:00
Tour duration: 1 hour
Tour fee: £350 plus £350 exclusive museum access, catering from £6.50 for pre-booked groups
An exclusive pre-opening private tour of the Scotland Galleries with a Mercat Tours storyteller. Coffee and pastries catering available.
Contact to book
Email: groups@nms.ac.uk
Phone: 0131 247 4049
VIP after hours tours with private reception
When: After 17:00
Tour duration: 1 hour
Tour fee: £280 plus £955 exclusive museum access, catering from £26.40 pp
A private group tour after hours. Group reception in Board and Bute Rooms with a glass and half of fizz and three canapés per person.
Contact to book
Email: hospitality@nms.ac.uk
Phone: 0131 247 4113
