26 and 27 September 2015: Free admission to many buildings, historical places and art laboratories normally closed to the Public.
There is always something going on in Edinburgh. Festivals, celebrations, important exhibitions (Escher exhibition just ended at the Modern Museum) and cultural initiatives which keep you connected with this beautiful city. This weekend I took advantage of the good weather (let’s face it: nobody would have expected over 20 degrees at the end of September in Edinburgh) and walked for hours letting a wrinkled map guide me towards wonderful discoveries. Every year, at the end of September, many private and historical buildings in Edinburgh exceptionally open their doors and welcome everybody who wants to have a look and learn more about the history of that special place, with permission of wandering through secret gems, for once. For free.
Curious to know where I’ve been knocking, exploring and taking pictures this time? Have a look at the following Gallery: I’m going to show you the exclusive places I had the chance to visit this week.
GEORGE HERIOT’S SCHOOL
The George Heriot’s School is the beautiful college J. K. Rawling took inspiration from, for her masterpiece: Harry Potter. Here pupils wear uniforms and belong to one of four houses: Lauriston (green); Greyfriars (white); Raeburn (red); Castle (blue). There are many buildings to host the 1600 students. And also a brand new gym, science laboratories, libraries and a beautiful wild garden. An incredible place, full of history, mystery and beauty.
TALBOT RICE GALLERY
This is a small hidden gem in the heart of the Old Town. The Rice Talbot Gallery, as part of the University of Edinburgh, is a beautiful space where Visual arts and many different disciplines (as science, medicine, history, maths etc) meet and give birth to wonderful art works.
Talbot Rice Gallery – The University of Edinburgh \ Old College, South Bridge, Edinburgh EH8 9YL
Open Tueasday-Friday, 10am – 5pm \ Saturday 12 – 5pm
Admission free
THE SIGNET LIBRARY
The Signet Library is a cosy and elegant Georgian Building just a short walk from The Royal Mile and the most popular touristic attractions. I had the chance to visit the Colonnades tea salon (which is open to the public through the year) and also the Upper Library, with sumptuous ceilings and classical architectural elements, a perfect setting for a wedding. I have been amazed by the splendour of the venue and I will come back soon for a rich and tasty afternoon tea.
The Signet Library \ Parliament Square, Edinburgh EH1 1RF
EDINBURGH PRINTMAKERS
As you can read on their website: For almost 50 years Edinburgh Printmakers has supported artists to expand the practice of fine art printmaking. I had the chance to visit the beautiful printing studio and the small Contemporary Art Gallery with some of the latest and interesting Scottish artworks in print.
Edinburgh Printmakers, 23 Union Street – Edinburgh, EH1 3LR
Open Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 6pm
Admission free
GAYFIELD GALLERY
The Gayfield Gallery is a Contemporary art space (just a short walk from the Edinburgh Printmalkers studio) which a bit hidden, but an absolutely must-see for everyone who loves Visual arts, Architecture and Design. A special place in the city, born to promote amazing talents and Scottish emerging artists.
Gayfield creative spaces / 11 Gayfield Square / Edinburgh / EH1 3NT
THE RAMP HOUSE
The Ramp House is a very special place near the sea, in the lovely area of Portobello. An award winning barrier-free house designed by an architect couple, to make their daughter’s life easier. I had the privilege to visit this accessible, bright and colourful house, and to spend really good time with the hosts. You can even book the Ramp House on Airbnb and enjoy wonderful days in this magical place.
Ramp House, Bellfield Land, Portobello
