Jacobethan style mansion with central battlemented tower, port-cochere entrance and, within, an impressive vaulted hallway, grand stair and minstrel's gallery. A walled garden and stable block lie adjacent ( neither 'open'). The house was built for Robert Orr on the site of the previous seat of the Bruces of Kinnaird, the best known being James Bruce (1730-94) who discovered the source of the Blue Nile. B-listed.
The Hippodrome is Scotland's oldest surviving purpose built cinema, designed by local architect Matthew Steele in 1911 in response to a commission from film-maker Louis Dickson, who wanted somewhere to show his films. The building's most notable feature is the large circular auditorium. A number of modifications have been made to the Hippodrome over the years, including the addition of a ticket office set in the corner angle with a small dome.
The large athletics stadium at Grangemouth was officially opened on 9th July 1966 and its inclusion in Doors Open Days is part of the 50th anniversary celebrations. The venue rapidly became a national centre for events and in 1967 the Scottish Paraplegic Games were held there. The stadium was designed by the architects Wilson & Wilson, and constructed by Chisholm & Co. A major innovation was the use of a rub-cor all-weather running track. In 1997 a £1.2 million investment saw a 60m indoor synthetic running track constructed to the east of the stand. For the first time athletes could train in all weathers. In 2004 it was extended, doubling its size to over 2100 square metres to create one of the best sports facilities in Scotland - home for the National Indoor Athletics Academy. The 2014 Commonwealth Games athletics track at Hampden Park was lifted and moved to Grangemouth Stadium as part of the Games legacy programme.
This cast iron gateway is said to be one of the largest ever made. It consists of two massive columns, pilastered with ornamental panels, and weighing fully 4.5 tons each. A semi-circular arch stands on consoled corbels, with an entablature weighing over 2 tons. The gateway was made for the Edinburgh International Exhibition in 1886 opened by Queen Victoria, and was renovated and moved to a new site next to the River Carron by Carron Phoenix in 2001.
As part of the Falkirk Townscape Heritage Initiative there will be a temporary exhibition and a guided walk to illustrate and explore the living architecture of the shops in the town centre. The THI is funded by Falkirk Council, HLF, Historic Environment Scotland and others, that will see £5.5 million invested in Falkirk Town Centre between 2013 and 2018 with the aim of helping to regenerate the area through investing in its unique and rich heritage.
<!-- [if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--> Completed in 1814 according to designs by David Hamilton of Glasgow the Steeple is the iconic landmark of the town. 140ft tall, it has four stages – the bottom being severe Florentine; the second Greek Doric; the third or clock chamber Italianate; and the belfry Ionic. It was constructed to house the town’s bell and clock, as well as containing temporary lockups. The design was a reflection of civic pride. The original Steeple on the site was erected in 1697 and was the first building to be owned by the Stentmasters – the precursor of the town council. An exhibition on the history of the Steeple has just been installed by the Falkirk Local History Society, which is the host for this occasion. During this weekend there will be an opportunity to inspect the two prison cells (lockups). These retain their original reinforced doors and traces of the iron cladding of both the ceilings and the floors. People had escaped from the previous tolbooth, but this was not going to happen here! Please note that access is to the first and second floors of the building only, by a small spiral staircase. You will need to be able to ascend and descend the stairs. We reserve the right to refuse access in reasonable circumstances.
In 1903 Lint Riggs was reconstructed using design parameters laid down by burgh engineer David Ronald and it is consequently the most architecturally consistent street in the area with a Continental feel. The dominant building is the Masonic Temple with its classical Corinthian style under a balustrade. It is the only Masonic Temple in the district and was completed in 1906 for Lodge Callendar No.588, the second lodge of freemasons to be established in the town. The internal decoration and furnishing is very interesting, especially the five outstanding painted windows with their floral patterns; each represents a Principal Office Bearer namely - The Right Worshipful Master in the centre flanked on either side by the Worshipful Senior and Junior Wardens. The two Wardens are flanked on their other side by windows representing the Senior and Junior Deacons. All in all this is an exceptional masonic lodge building.
A neat, contemporary building in a newly built area is a tribute to the re-establishment of a Free Church congregation in the Falkirk area.
This new Fire Station replaces the previous facility in nearby Grangemouth Road and is probably the best recognised contemporary public building in the area.
Falkirk Council Archives, Callendar House
The panelled library in Callendar House, designed by David Hamilton, is now home to the Council Archives, and holds a vast range of material relating to the local area; including electoral roles, family and personal papers, maps and thousands of photographs.
Described variously as “Rogue” or “Punchy” Scottish Baronial, this building is certainly distinctive. It was completed in 1879 according to designs by the Falkirk architect Alexander Black. The oriel bay resting on a squat flowering column looks like a pulpit – just right for the Provost of Falkirk. Perhaps the ironwork crown on the truncated pyramid roof is also symbolic. That this was the administrative building for the burgh of Falkirk is shown by the large coat-of-arms set high in the gable. A description of Falkirk published in 1879 aptly stated that “pains have been taken to produce a bold and effective exterior without any lavish expenditure.” The total cost was a little over £3,000. As well as housing the Town Clerk’s office it contained the Fiscal’s office, the Collector’s rooms, the court room, witnesses’ room, committee room and council chamber. On the upper floor was a flat for the caretaker. Today the building is home to the Registrar, where births, marriages and deaths are recorded. The parts open to the public are the main hall and marriage rooms. Open courtesy of the Chief Executive, Falkirk Council. Wheelchair access to ground floor and lift to first floor. Parking in town centre.
One of the oldest dwellings in Bo'ness, the present structure incorporates part of a 17th century building. It was substantially remodelled in 1720, when a wood panelled room complete with buffet for showing off the best china was added. The building was restored under the National Trust's Small Houses scheme and opened as eight apartments in 2004. The architects of the Pollock Fammond Partnership were able to restore the crowstep gables, pantile roofs and dormer windows to return it to its earlier appearance typical of the Forth Estuary. The panelled room was also restored and may be seen. New elements, such as the fine steel gates to the courtyard by Ratho Byres Forge, compliment the older work.
This exuberant building with its 5-bay neo-baroque front elevation was given to the people of Larbert and Stenhousemuir by ironfounder Major Robert Dobbie as a memorial to his son who was killed in the Boer War. It was designed by A and W Black of Falkirk, cost £12,000 to build, and was opened in August 1901 by the Duchess of Montrose. The entrance hall is unusual in retaining its original layout with cloakrooms and toilets to either side. This includes the checking windows and counters. Fine tiled floors are found throughout the main access points. The massive main hall is dominated by a lavish proscenium arch and a broad horseshoe-shaped gallery gives it an operatic feel. The lesser hall on the first floor also has original detailing and plasterwork.
The present building dates to 1883 and is in the simple Early English Gothic style. Located above the magnificent town hall, it has wonderful views out to the Forth and is itself a prominent sea-mark. The tall angled buttressed tower with its crown spire dominates the area and acts as a beacon to ships and worshippers alike. The main door is in the north gable under a pointed arch heavily carved with vines. Above this is a tall plate traceried window with cusped lancets, trefoils and a vesica. On entry there is a gallery stair to the left with an east gable. There are three pairs of plain lancets to the nave. The nave is three-bayed, arcaded, with galleries over the aisles and to the north. The boarded roof is painted with flowers and stars. The architects were McKissack and Rowan and the cost was £4,000.
Designed by R Rowand Anderson in a relatively plain Gothic style and completed in 1864, the exterior of this church belies the homely extravagance of the polychrome interior. It is lined with yellow-brown glazed bricks with red bands three bricks deep. The window arches and chamfered sills are also red and the chancel has square moulded tiles. A panelled oak dado extends round the whole interior. The nave has an open scissor truss roof; whilst the ceiling of the chancel is painted pale blue with stencilled stars. The chancel arch springs from attached pillars that stand on carved corbels with naturalistic foliage. Within the arch is set a wrought iron screen, made in 1897 by the Carron Company. It was heavily pruned in the 1960s and the cross that surmounted it was suspended from the arch. In the Lady Chapel there is a wooden altar dedicated to those of the congregation who fell in the First World War, with front panels painted with scenes from the life of Christ. Hinged side panels have been added with the names of those who died in the Second World War. This was the first war memorial to be erected in Falkirk. Stained glass colours the light streaming in through the windows.
Sympathetic conversion of a vernacular farm building to create a modern house. It has been featured in Scottish Television's The Home Show.
Built in 1863 as the private residence of mill owner Andrew Duncan, and most recently used as the offices for Carrongrove Papermill, an opulent mid-Victorian villa. Current plans are to redevelop the building into apartments.
Carron Phoenix is the successor of the old Carron Company, and today is the world's largest manufacturer of granite sinks, a fascinating and complex process; and the UK's largest manufacturer of stainless steel sinks, which is an exercise in automation with robots working alongside staff. Visitors to the works will have the opportunity to compare this 21st century technology with the internal canal system used in the 1760s to transport heavy cast iron goods.
Designed by P Macgregor Chalmers and opened in 1909 this building is a prominent land and seamark. Its simple Romanesque style features a tall tower capped by a pyramidal spire and with a recessed entrance doorway set in an ornate arch at its foot. The session house, which forms the south "transept", has a Baronial turret attached to it. Internally there is rich ornamentation with many stained glass windows and an apsidal baptistery with a mosaic floor and painted half domed ceiling entered under a chevroned arch. The plain massive columns of the six-bay nave with its half-rounded timber ceiling dominate. This famous pitch pine barrel-roof was the work of Turnbulls of Bonhard. The stone for the church was brought by horse from Deanfield Quarry and the whole operation cost £6,500.
The church was built in 1766 to replace the medieval church adjacent to Carriden House. It is T-shaped in plan and finished in simple Georgian style. An aedicule was attached to the north side of the building in 1771 to protect the monument to Sir William Maxwell of Carriden. A tower with a spire and a session house were added around 1840. When the church was opened in 1909 the roof was taken off the old one and it is now a picturesque ruin.
Although altered in each of the subsequent centuries, this 16th century towerhouse still has a defensive feel with fluted gun-loops set in corbelled turrets. The earliest of many datestones is for 1602 and there is a fine 17th century plaster ceiling in one of the rooms of the principal floor. Among the famous owners were Rear Admiral Sir George Hope and his sone James, who was Admiral of the Fleet in the mid 19th century. In the First World War the empty house was believed to be a German spy den, before being used as a convalecent home for wounded soldiers. The grounds contain the remains of the medieval chaurch and its graveyard, as well as haw-haws and terraces.
Built around 1840, the Callendar House Kennels building is situated in Callendar Wood, some distance from the big house so that the noise from barking dogs was not a nuisance. Callendar Wood is now cared for by the Forestry Commission Scotland.
This building functions as a walk around display linking the giant oil and petro-chemical industry to its early roots in shale mining. It contains a 90-seater theatre and is attached to the canteen building.
In 1638 the inhabitants of Bo’ness built their own church at Corbiehall to replace that at Kinneil. The present church was opened in 1888 on the hill above. It is a large Gothic church with Normandy details designed by Shiels and Thomson, architects, George Street, Edinburgh. It is constructed of snecked, squared rubble with ashlar dressings, using local stone. The building is cruciform in plan with additional stair projections flanking the tower. A four bay nave with aisles has a four stage tower with a faceted spire standing at its north end, overlooking the Forth Estuary. Above the door of the tower is a sculpture of the burning bush, and a carving of the Duke of Hamilton's coat-of-arms, in gratitude of his subscription. The 175ft tall tower dominates the coastline. The galleried interior consists of three lofts - the Laird’s Loft under the tower; the Mariners’ in the west transept; and the Miners’ in the east. The timber roof springs from corbelled shafts, supported on alternating round and octagonal columns by pointed arches about 18ft high. The main couples being supported by carved capitals. The chancel arch facing the congregation is 35ft tall with fine carving at the springs and echoes the large traceried window in the gable.
Colin Anderson has brought together an amazing collection of vehicles and road transport memorabilia from private collections and since 2004 has displayed them in a much converted snooker hall. A recent addition is the Chitty chitty Bang Bang, the official MGM Authorised car and the only one in the world with fully automatic working wings - and completely road legal.
By way of a total contrast to the massive stone structures of the Victorian and Edwardian periods the Baptist Church is pretty utilitarian. It is of steel frame construction with steel roof beams and brick walls relieved by a high line of windows that provide ample light to the interior. It was constructed in the 1970s for the Brethren Church, but was purchased a decade later by the Baptist Church when they gave up their town centre premises in South Street. The open format allows the hall auditorium to be used for many purposes, such as a nursery or meeting place. The location is highly significant. It lay just to the north of the original St Andrew’s Free Church on Boundary Street. This street gets its name as the frontier between the parishes of Kinneil and Carriden.
Located beside the steep track of the School Brae that provides a slice through history, linking the historic town beside the harbour to the Victorian villas on the high ground, this church was built by the congregation in the 1950s. It was extended eastward in the 1970s and the old building used as a hall. One of the features of the new church is a total immersion baptistery underneath the platform at the south end. The altar takes the form of a simple carpenter’s bench. As it is built into the hillside there is a lower floor, which houses a craft room with a loom for working on quilts.
The Bantaskine Boathouse on the Union Canal near Walker's bridge was built in 1991 for the Seagull Trust. The buff-coloured brick stands out against the sylvan and watery setting, with contrasting blue engineering brick margins. There are three distinctive tall, arched and dormered windows facing the canal and lighting the interior berth. The Seagull Trust operates boat tours for groups from here.
Family workshop to mark Scottish Archaeology Month.
Award-winning architects WT Architecture’s newly renovated studios on Queensferry Harbour overlook the Forth Rail Bridge. The studios were formerly a fish shop and a cobblers shop and are part of Hillwood Place, which was built as colony-style flats by the Hillwood Cooperative Society in 1910.
Wilson Memorial United Free Church of Scotland
This category B listed building was designed by architect James Stewart Johnston, and is one of the few arts and crafts style churches in the UK. It was completed in 1934, and opened on September 29, 1934. It is a symmetrically fronted church constructed in red brick and banded with painted render. The interior comprises a barrel-roof nave, with many of the original features, including an oak communion table, font, and pulpit. The church is situated in a prominent position within the community of Craigentinny. ˜
WHALE Arts Centre is a community arts venue built in 2000, designed by Zoo Architects and funded through the Scottish Arts Council. The building is a unique community asset that provides a range of high-quality creative spaces for the community including exhibition spaces, arts workshop, and performance space and garden. WHALE Arts Centre operates as a social enterprise via office and venue hire allowing WHALE Arts to generate income that supports our charitable work to be the creative heart of a vibrant, thriving community.
The West Port Garden opened in 1910, inspired by pioneer ecologist Patrick Geddes, whose vision was to create green spaces among the Old Town slums, where children could play safely and experience the natural world through gardening.A century on, after years of neglect, local residents are renewing Geddes' vision by creating a green space for everyone to enjoy, terraces on the steeply sloping site provide flower gardens, vegetable plots and play areas for children. This garden poses great historic importance to the city - being one of Patrick Geddes Old Town Gardens. The garden was intended to give families and children of the neighbourhood an outdoor space to play, explore and enjoy. Now owned by The City of Edinburgh, this garden is still in use as a space for the locals today. YOYP: West Port Garden encourages the youth to become involved in gardening and learning new skills, such as growing their own food. Friendly, expert advice available. �
Opened in 2006, Waverley Court houses the headquarters of the City of Edinburgh Council. The building includes a number of features such as solar panels and the harvesting of rainwater, designed to make it more sustainable.
The Wauchope Mausoleum is a single-storey tomb house dating from 1735 and enclosing a grave slab which dates from 1587. It was part of Niddrie House which was demolished in around 1968. The Mausoleum is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and is Category B listed.
Formerly the Slateford School House, the Water of Leith Visitor Centre is a unique attraction to the city. It was extensively renovated thanks to funding from the Millennium Commission and City of Edinburgh Council, with the building design by Malcolm Fraser Architects and the interactive exhibition space by James Carter. It was opened in April 2000.� �
WASPS Patriothall was originally a bakery and is a building of great character, that still retains many of its orgininal features, including Victorian red tiled walls. It was converted to artists studios in 1984 and now has 52 studios that house 61 artists over 3 floors.
Warriston was the first designed garden cemetery (opened 1843) in Edinburgh. Many of the illustrious and anonymous of the day were interred there. Later it was neglected until the City implemented a Compulsory Purchase Order. The older parts became overgrown with invasive weeds and excess ivy until the Friends of Warriston Cemetery started clearance in 2013, to ensure that gravestones and fascinating monuments can be viewed, family graves visited, history and heritage enjoyed, whilst enhancing the Local Biodiversity aspects.
Warrender Swim Centre is a swimming pool (25 yards) and fitness centre in Marchmont, Edinburgh. It is home to the Warrender Baths Club, which is said to be the oldest, most famous and successful swimming club in Scotland training Olympians including David Wilkie. It is notable for its Victorian architecture with bright interior and its old-fashioned poolside changing facilities. The baths enjoy Category B listed building conservation status. ?
Wardie Primary opened in 1931 in an area where 800 new houses had been recently built and was designed by architect Joseph Marr Johnston. The school was planned on the open-air principle around an inside garden and described as Continental in design at the time. Five years later, under the ‘Schools Beautiful’ scheme Robert Heriot Westwater (1905-62) painted the large, nine-panel mural of Alice in Wonderland in its hall. The ‘transcendent’ Wonderland mural was to act in several ways – to enliven the school environment, as a pedagogic tool and as part of a modern, twentieth century campaign to revive mural art for public service. It still leaves an impression. It is a testament to the vision and ideals of early twentieth century social reformers.
The walk is approximately 3 miles, on towpaths and footpaths. Looking at traces of the industry still visible in the buildings of the Old Town. Scotland's Canals played a defining role in the history of the Industrial Age of Great Britain and Ireland and each has a fascinating and unique history. Join the Scottish Waterways Trust for a 2 hour guided walk to explore the social and industrial history of Fountainbridge and Edinburgh's Union Canal, opened in 1822. Year of Innovation Architecture and Design: Explore the innovative Leamington Lift Bridge, outstanding aqueducts and association with eminent engineers on our journey along the Union Canal - an extraordinary example of Georgian civil engineering.
Walk - Edinburgh's Buildings of Architectural Interest
A walk led by a Scottish Tourist Guide Association Blue Badge Guide exploring some of Edinburgh's Buildings of Architectural Interest. � NB: This walk will operate 4 times over the Doors Open Days weekend
Walk - Architectural Introduction to Edinburgh Old Town
A walk & talk through Edinburgh's Old Town taking in recent developments.� �
Waldorf Architecture: Kindergarten and Final Years Coach House
Founded in Edinburgh in 1919, the Steiner School occupies a range of bespoke and adapted child-friendly buildings, including the unhurried, purpose-built Kindergarten for the Early Years and newly converted 19th Century coach house which houses classrooms for the penultimate and final years of school. Both are living examples of a community approach to construction, with pupil, teacher and parent participation. GLOBAL CONNECTIONS Waldorf campuses worldwide follow a remarkable and consistent ethos, drawing inspiration from founder Rudolf Steiner’s teachings and his Goetheanum in Switzerland, which is considered a masterpiece of twentieth century expressionist architecture. ACTIVITIES Guided tours of the Coach House throughout the day. Workshop for young people (16+) exploring concepts for the entrance gate, 12:00 – 15:00. Advance booking essential via: https://www.edinburghsteinerschool.org.uk/event/doors-open-day/ Children’s activities in the Kindergarten. Talk by Benjamin Tindall Architects on architecture and environmental, economic and social sustainability – 11:00 – 11:30 Exhibition: Waldorf Steiner in 100 Objects https://www.edinburghsteinerschool.org.uk/event/doors-open-day/
Opened in 2011 and home to international volunteering charity Vine Trust, this critically- acclaimed barge boasts state-of-the-art design from Archial Architects (now NORR). This converted oil barge boasts a panorama Glass Room with stunning views. While also available for private hire, the barge provides a creative space from which Vine Trust coordinates volunteering expeditions providing life- changing projects in Tanzania and Peru.
Inside the History of Education Centre is a fully functioning Victorian classroom with wooden desks, blackboards, finger-stocks, and the tawse, as well as a museum room full of Victoriana including a kitchen range and a variety of household items, most of which can be handled. Enjoy a Victorian-style lesson in the classroom and explore the exhibitions and household and other items in the museum room.
The school is the oldest working Primary school in Edinburgh. The original building dating from 1845 (architect James Lessels) later extended in 1874 and 1875 has its exterior intact. Its original timber sash and case windows, a relatively unchanged interior retaining timber boarded dado panelling, iron radiators, stone stairs, cast-iron banisters and double-height hall make the school an impressive and virtually complete example of its type. It also contains the recently refreshed ?Wee Museum? a permanent display of Newhaven artefacts. ˜
Vennel Churchyard, Masonic Lodge and Hawthorne Bank Community Garden
The Vennel Churchyard, usually glimpsed through locked gates, is next to the old Parish Church (1633) and contains headstones with intriguing carvings and inscriptions. Queensferry’s Masonic Lodge is adjacent, once one of Scotland’s earliest school buildings, dating from 1671. Visitors can access the Lodge, where Masonic regalia and artefacts will be on display, the Churchyard and the recently transformed Hawthorn Bank Community Garden, open after a four-year redevelopment. Make a day of it – walking tour map of Queensferry & Dalmeny available. GLOBAL CONNECTIONS AND ACTIVITIES Guided tours of the Churchyard will highlight the stories of those who came from far off lands or travelled abroad but who all ended up in this final resting place. Visitors will hear stories about witches, sea captains, sailors and many others. Refreshments available. www.queensferryheritage.org.uk/
Built in 1914, the Usher Hall is a beautiful Edwardian concert hall set in the heart of Edinburgh. Steeped in history, the Hall is the city’s key venue for visiting national and international orchestras. It embraces the widest range of music and events, including rock, pop, world, folk, blues, comedy, conferences, award ceremonies and recording sessions. From Ella Fitzgerald to Winston Churchill; Johnny Cash to The Rolling Stones; Billy Connolly to Jamie Cullum; Robert Plant to Katherine Jenkins - the world’s greatest artists have stood on its stage.
University of Edinburgh: The Chancellor's Building
The Chancellor's Building was opened by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, Chancellor of the University of Edinburgh, on 12 August 2002. The University's new Medical School provides a modern academic space for teaching and research with two large lecture theatres and a medical library together with research laboratories. Taking pride of place in the main entrance foyer is The Morton Tapestry by Alan Davie 'To a Celtic Spirit'.
Built 1869 by John Lessels. Has a lion-bracketed oriel over the entrance and a 4-storey tower. Inside, a carved stair with birds and beasts and stencil work by Thomas Bonnnar. www.accom.ed.ac.uk
University of Edinburgh: Salisbury Green
Built 1862-64 by John Lessels. Excellent interior with rich painting by Charles Frechou.
University of Edinburgh: Research & Innovation
Formerly College Street United Presbyterian Church, built 1856 in Greco-Roman style by Patrick Wilson. Top-lit interior ingeniously converted into a training and conference centre for the University of Edinburgh by Reiach & Hall, 1996.
University of Edinburgh: Queen's Medical Research Institute
Located alongside the University of Edinburgh Medical School and the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh the Queen's Medical Research Institute will house 670 staff working on research into a greater understanding of common diseases. The Institute will accommodate three centres Reproductive Biology; Cardiovascular Sciences and Inflammation Research.
University of Edinburgh: Playfair Library Hall (1)
Enter through arch (Robert Adam 1789) beneath the dome by Robert Rowand Anderson, into the Old Quad (William Playfair 1819-27), and up the steps to the left. Playfair's Library is on the first floor, with its eleven bays of books supporting a coffered vaulted ceiling, it is one of Edinburgh's grandest interiors.
University of Edinburgh: Playfair Library Hall
University of Edinburgh: Old Moray House
Aristocratic mansion of 1618 with massive obelisks flanking the gate. Now part of the Faculty of Education of the University of Edinburgh. Balcony Room and Cromwell Room: Two very fine rooms up a turnpike stair, with elaborate original plaster ceilings and 18C panelling. Enter from St John Street (via Canongate or Holyrood Road)
University of Edinburgh: Old College (1)
Beyond the South Bridge front of Old College, only a small part of the design by Robert Adam 1789 was actually built. The remainder was largely completed by William Playfair 1817-40 and the dome added by Robert Rowand Anderson 1877.�
Old College sits at the heart of the University of Edinburgh. Work on Robert Adam�s original design began in 1789 and was completed by William Henry Playfair who created the magnificent Playfair Library. The dome, added in 1887, bears a 6ft foot high gilded bronze statue of a youth bearing �the torch of knowledge� and is affectionately nicknamed the �Golden Boy.� Meeting rooms and the main staircase contain fine paintings, including a dozen by Raeburn. www.ed.ac.uk/news
University of Edinburgh: New College, Rainy Hall, Martin Hall, Library
New College has a central place in the city’s iconic skyline. Now home to the University of Edinburgh’s School of Divinity, which encompasses students of different faiths and none, the building was founded as the theological college of the Free Church of Scotland on 3 June 1846. Discover the rich history in its magnificent architecture and visit the newly refurbished Rainy Hall and Social Bite café. You may even catch a glimpse of the New College ghost! GLOBAL CONNECTIONS As a leading centre for research in World Christianity, Christian Muslim relations and other faiths, New College has an international community and global reach.
McEwan Hall was presented to the University in 1897 by William McEwan, not only as a ceremonial hall for graduations but also as a gift to the people of Edinburgh. Designed by Sir Rowand Anderson, with lavish interiors by William Palin, this iconic Grade A listed building was reopened in 2017 following a painstaking three-year multi-million pound refurbishment, which not only ‘refreshed’ its intricate paintings and stonework, but also expanded the function of the Hall to meet the modern demands of the University.
University of Edinburgh: Matthew Architecture Gallery
The Matthew Architecture Gallery was opened in 1992 and named after the late Sir Robert Matthew (the first Professor of Architecture at the University of Edinburgh). The current exhibition is on Urban Cartography.
The University library has been collecting printed materials, art, and other objects from around the world since the late 16th century, and more recently building its digital collections which can be accessed globally 24/7. Come and visit the Main Library, a first class library facility, designed by Sir Basil Spence, built in 1967 and redeveloped in 2013 where students, academics and visitors from around the world can engage with our physical and electronic collections.
University of Edinburgh: Chancellor's Court
University of Edinburgh. Built 2003. Designed by Oberlanders Architects and built by Balfour Beatty. Accommodation for 526 students during term time, commercial activity during vacation.
Tynecastle High School’s impressive building provides a superb working and learning environment while retaining its strong sense of tradition and local identity. The school is extremely proud of both the achievements of its students and the superb facilities, which are widely used by the public. Visitors are amazed by the sense of space, light and colour in the atrium. The flexible working areas are central to delivery of the Curriculum for Excellence while outdoor spaces help inspire creative learning. www.tynecastle.edin.sch.uk
The A listed Tron Kirk was constructed in the 1630s by the master-mason to the Crown and Edinburgh, John Mylne. Although altered with the creation of South Bridge and Hunter Square and refurbishment in the 1970s the building contains a mix of architectural styles and has one of Edinburgh’s best examples of a 17th century timber ceiling. Archaeological excavations have revealed some of Edinburgh’s best preserved remains of medieval and 16th century tenements located either side of the cobbled medieval Marlin’s Wynd and also a rare surviving section of the medieval High Street.
Dive into Leith?s famous maritime history and discover an outstanding collection of maritime treasures. Once the base of the Incorporation of Mariners and Shipmasters, Trinity House has proudly stood in Leith?s Kirkgate since at least 1555. Established to help sailors in need, it grew to play a key role in the development of the port and is a reminder of Leith?s great heritage. Explore the building for yourself and step into a nautical world.
Trinity Apse is a spectacular gothic kirk situated in a perfect location just off the Royal Mile and a mere three minutes walk from Waverley Station. Historic Trinity Apse is part of what was once described as one of the finest ecclesiastical buildings constructed in Edinburgh. Tucked away down a small close, the Apse has beautiful vaulted ceilings. Edinburgh Museums and Galleries see Trinity Apse as one of our greatest 'hidden gems'. It housed the Brass Rubbing Centre until 2010 and is now in a very exciting period of new beginnings.
The Traverse Theatre inhabits a unique position as Scotland�s only theatre wholly dedicated to the discovery, development and presentation of new dramatic work. A vibrant artistic powerhouse in central Edinburgh, the Traverse produces an inspiring programme of the best work from the UK and beyond, covering theatre, dance, music and spoken word. From its origins as a theatre club on Edinburgh�s Lawnmarket, the Traverse has been at its current, custom-built home in Saltire Court since 1992.
Tibetan Buddhist Meditation Centre (Kagyu samye Dzong)
This iconic Georgian building was originally opened in 1805 as the first Bank of Leith. It is now a Buddhist Meditation Centre open to people of all faiths, for meditation, prayer and classes in Yoga, Qigong and other wholesome activities to benefit body, mind and spirit. ACTIVITIES After a brief tour, a talk will be given in the main Shrine Room. People wishing to attend are respectfully requested to take off their shoes in the vestibule before entering the Shrine Room. Entry times for the tours and talks are: 2.30 till 3pm and 3.30 till 4pm. www.edinburgh.samye.org
The�Thomson�Tower was designed by�architect William�Playfair�for his friends at�Duddingston�Curling Society as a place to store their curling stones on the shores of�Duddingston�Loch. As the weather changed, curling moved indoors, and the Tower fell into disrepair. In 2009 the Trustees restored the Tower, which now houses an interpretation room in the upper chamber whilst the lower chamber houses a�museum of curling.
Come and join us at the award-winning Thistle Centre of Wellbeing building, where people are at the heart of all we do. Take a walk around the Thistle estate following the recently launched ‘Archie’s Trail’ which takes you on a trip through time from 1945 to the present. Our trail tells you all about the history of this unique conservation-status site, Thistle’s connection to royalty, our illustrious Paralympians, our connection with the beautiful Robin Chapel, and our approach to supporting people living with long term health conditions. GLOBAL CONNECTIONS Thistle was founded 75 years ago to support disabled veterans returning from World War II, with money raised from across the world. ACTIVITIES This weekend will be the first occasion for the general public to enjoy Archie’s Trail. The Robin Chapel will be having a service on Sunday afternoon, which all visitors are welcome to attend. As part of Thistle’s anniversary celebrations, an orchard garden has been planted, which visitors will be able to access. www.Thistle.org.uk
The Yard Adventure Centre has been running play sessions for children and young people with disabilities for over 25 years. The current building was opened by HRH Princess Anne in 1993 and was virtually untouched until two years ago when the team from BBC DIY SOS The Big Build and over 300 tradespeople from all over Edinburgh and Lothians gave it a major overhaul in just 9 days as part of BBC Children in Need. www.theyardscotland.org.uk
The B-listed building originally designed by William Innes Thomson was opened as a road house in 1936 – a cross between a pub and a hotel where people went to play billiards, take tea or have a drink. Funds from the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Regeneration Fund and Historic Scotland enabled a £2m restoration of the building. The building is now run for the benefit of the community by The Community Alliance Trust. www.thewhitehousekitchen.org.uk
The White House is a B-Listed Art Deco building. It was a road house, commissioned in 1936 at the time when motor cars were becoming popular. An exhibition which encompasses its restoration, sustainable Scottish Communities, Craigmillar’s Heritage and Craigmillar’s Regeneration.
The UK National Centre For Fung Loy Kok Taoist Tai Chi
69 Marionville Road was purchased in 2011 to serve as the UK Centre for Taoist Tai Chi™. The building was in a state of neglect and had suffered from vandalism both inside and out. The large internal space is ideal for the practise of Taoist arts, and the site offered the opportunity to contribute to and engage with the local community by improving its condition and offering the health benefits of Taoist Tai Chi™ arts to all who wish to receive them. Fung Loy Kok Taoist Tai Chi™ belongs to a tradition many thousands of years old, the UK Centre also has a history, albeit a little less ancient. It appears that the site was undeveloped until around 1908 when railway sidings were located in the area currently occupied by the rear car park. In the early 1930s the first building was constructed on the site. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult www.taoist.org.uk
Exciting contemporary development by award-winning Allan Murray Architects as part of the redevelopment of Holyrood North Site. The brick East Tun, where Tartan Special used to be brewed, has been converted and extended to offer a mix of retail and commercial uses, including a caf? bar and top-floor restaurant. Access by the Scenic Lift to the fifth floor restaurant 'shell' which enjoys stunning views to Salisbury Crags. Limited access to rest of building.
The Shed is the last remaining building from The Henry Robb�s Shipyard that closed in 1984 due to industrial decline, bringing 500 years of shipbuilding to an end. Constructed like a ship, complete with riveted seams, portholes and painted battleship grey it was built by the Robb apprentices honing their skills. The steel building was originally a bomb-proof store for the shipping blueprints during WW2 as well as a first aid station and paint store. YOYP: As well as working with emerging artists at DOK we run free mentoring programs for young people that want to pursue a career in the creative industries. We have also worked with Princes Trust and other groups of young people that may be disengaged or disadvantaged in some way. Providing workshops and free materials. Our membership scheme is free to schools. �
The Steel House is a striking contemporary new house built in the heart of Edinburgh�s New Town in 2002. Finished externally in stainless steel the house sits in a walled garden between Georgian townhouses. It is a demonstration of how good quality modern architecture can sit comfortably in a historic setting and as it is now reaching its tenth birthday, the owners, Gordon and Racheal Greig,decided to open it for Doors Open Day 2018.�
The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings
SPAB Scotland will bring along a thatcher to give demonstrations of the craft of roof thatching. Staff and volunteers will be happy to discuss their work.
Opened by HM The Queen in 2004, the Scottish Parliament has welcomed over 2 million visitors to its Holyrood site. Visit and explore areas normally only accessible through accompanied tours, including the Debating Chamber, Garden Lobby and Members’ Lobby. Historic Queensberry House, home of the 2nd Duke of Queensberry in the early 18th century, will be accessible (wheelchair access with assistance) as will the contemporary version of a Scottish Knot Garden.
Founded in 1953, the Society moved into 15 Victoria Terrace in 1991. The internal walls of the property are from two phases of building: vaulted arches dating from c.1830-1840 and the cellars of tenements on Johnston Terrace in 1868-9. Over time it has been used as an ARP centre during WWII and then occupied by a confectionery manufacturer, a scientific equipment supplier, a pottery & printmaking studio, a restaurant and then home to The Scottish Genealogy Society.
The Scottish Gallery specialises in contemporary Scottish and 20th Century painting, and Scottish, UK and international objects. Established in South St. David Street, Edinburgh by Aitken Dott in 1842 as Gilders, Framers, and Artists' Colourmen, the firm also exhibited work by leading Scottish artists. Following a time in Castle Street, a new dedicated gallery space was opened in 1897 as The Scottish Gallery. The Gallery has been situated on Dundas Street since 1992 and celebrated 175 Years of Art in 2017. GLOBAL CONNECTIONS The Scottish Gallery champions international, contemporary applied art and artists who have a presence within the global art community; from young, talented graduates who may have travelled to Scotland to study at one of the art schools, to established makers and artists who have an international reach. ACTIVITIES Doors Open Days will be the final chance to see several exhibitions including solo exhibitions from both Victoria Crowe and Rebecca Collins, alongside an exhibition showcasing some of the finest British and International glass artists featuring work from Vidar Koksvik, Harry Morgan, Karlyn Sutherland, Inge Panneels & Kevin Greenfield.
The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) was established in 1783 and has been based on George Street since 1908. It originally occupied numbers 22–24, which had been built for the Edinburgh Life Assurance Company (ELAC) in 1843 on the site of two terraced townhouses designed by David Bryce. It acquired number 26, whose corner-site façade is built of white Portland stone with a copper-roofed dome crowned with a bronze status of Prudence, in 1994. GLOBAL CONNECTIONS The RSE is Scotland’s National Academy and was established for the advancement of learning and useful knowledge. It remains true to these principles today by playing a leading role in challenging, developing and sharing current thinking and ideas that can benefit Scotland and the wider world. It does this through harnessing the diverse knowledge and expertise of its Fellowship of over 1600 experts and leaders, drawn from the worlds of science, the arts, business and public service. ACTIVITIES Virtual tours, displays, artefacts, presentations and refreshments plus a chance to see our ‘Women in Science in Scotland’ photographic exhibition, featuring some of Scotland’s finest female scientists who are all shaping our understanding of the world. https://www.rse.org.uk/events/ Parking available on George Street subject to normal restrictions.
An award-winning architect�s own two storey wheelchair accessible family home and studio on a tight urban site based around an unfolding 28m long ramp. It has resulted in a design that is both open plan and complex, with spaces connecting whilst still feeling separate and able to be used for different purposes. A restrained front fa�ade using stone and shingles contrasts with the copper clad playful forms of the garden fa�ade. The building was designed for and was designed with, a young wheelchair user. � �
A category A listed former church, designed by architect Robert Brown in 1822, which� celebrated its 34th anniversary as a concert hall in 2013 and now hosts approximately 200 events a year to over 100,000 people.� �www.thequeenshall.net �
A conversion of University print works that form 6 dynamic apartments. Each flat has its own identity with a gutsy, rustic, romantic, urban aesthetic.
A 1950�s former purpose-built paper warehouse formerly home of the University Press until change of use and conversion into six dynamic apartments by Studio DuB architects in 2002. The original steel beams, brick walls and concrete ceilings are left exposed and new surface mounted services are carefully integrated creating a gutsy, tough yet romantic urban aesthetic. Each flat has its own identity: duplexes at the upper levels benefit from private, south-facing roof terraces and those at lower levels from live-work space. �
The Orthodox Community of St Andrew & Causey Development Trust
The former Buccleuch Parish Church (now owned by the Orthodox Community of St Andrew - Edinburgh) is C-listed and dates from 1755-6. Built as overflow for St Cuthbert's Parish Church, Lothian Road, its tranquil secret graveyard houses several significant graves. It sits on the western edge of a historic triangular space known locally as The Causey - Causey Development Trust aims to transform this space and is partnering with the Orthodox Community of St Andrew to host this event.
The Mary Erskine School and Ravelston House
Ravelston House built in 1800 by Alexander Keith in the late Adam manner, commands magnificent views over Edinburgh and the Pentland Hills. The Victorian wing was added in 1875 and the interior of the house was renovated in Adam-revival style in 1915. The modern buildings, designed by William Kininmonth in 1964, form a cubist-influenced development with white, clear cut geometric shapes set around courtyards to optimise the light.
The Maltings are part of a late 17th century inn complex, the inn itself (Royal Oak Inn) was demolished in the 1970s. The Maltings is today used as an education and exhibition centre while its associated brewhouse houses an archive of local documents, photographs and ephemera. The earliest carbon dated Mesolithic occupation of Scotland has been identified just behind the Maltings and the exhibition contains artefacts from this date until the present day. The exhibition highlights the local iron industry’s links with the continent. GLOBAL CONNECTIONS The existing exhibition shows the iron industry links to the Russian and Swedish trade ports from which they obtained their main source of iron and the links from Cramond to their customers throughout the world. ACTIVITIES Guided walks up the River Almond by local guides. One of these, covering the area’s industrial past, will start at the Maltings and continue upriver to Cramond Brig. The other walk will offer a guided tour of Cramond’s rich archaeological heritage. Start time 14.00 each day and will last approximately 2 hours.
The Lyell Centre (British Geological Survey)
The ?21m Lyell Centre opened in 2016 to house a pioneering research centre for Earth and marine science in joint venture between the British Geological Survey and Heriot-Watt University. The centre features state-of-the-art facilities including a 3D visualization suite and a large research aquarium.
� The Centre for the Scottish War Blinded (Linburn Centre) is a day centre for visually impaired exservicemen and women. Facilities include a craft workshop, art space, training gym, skills kitchen, IT centre, media lounge, and remembrance garden. The centre accommodates up to 35 members daily and offers services at no charge. Designed by Page\Park Architects and opened in 2011, the building�s design was inspired by the curved shape of a Chinese celestial phoenix that was presented to the original War Blinded centre on a plaque by the Sanlingerers Hong Kong golf club in 1951. The centre features a light and spacious floorplan with colour-coded d�cor that makes it easier for blind and visually impaired members to navigate without assistance. The building has received awards from the Royal Institute of British Architects, the Glasgow Institute of Architects, and Disability West Lothian and was most recently named as the �Scottish Building Project of the Year� by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. �
The King's Theatre was built in 1905 by Edinburgh builder, William Stewart Cruikshank. Andrew Carnegie laid the foundation stone and the Theatre was opened in 1906 with a performance of Cinderella. The King's Theatre became the headquarters of Howard & Wyndham before being sold to Edinburgh Council in 1966. The local authority managed the King's Theatre up until July 1998 when the operation merged with the Festival Theatre. Festival City Theatres Trust now manages both Theatres. The theatre has beautiful examples of Edwardian stained glass and its domed ceiling is the largest piece of public art work designed and painted by John Byrne. ACTIVITIES AND GLOBAL CONNECTIONS We will provide several building tours throughout the day that will highlight the history and heritage of our building and showcase the theatre’s connections with a host of global entertainers, including Anna Pavlova, Dame Margot Fontaine, Maria Callas, Juliette Binoche and Dame Maggie Smith. 10:30; 12:30; 14:30. We will offer two intergenerational dance workshops where young people can join in with their grown ups to learn dances from across the globe – the vibrant Brazilian Samba, the timeless English Waltz through to jumpin’ jive from America and the dance of the spanish matador, the Paso Doble. 11:30, 13:30. We will also run two workshops exploring the global origins of pantomime. Participants will be introduced to the archetypal characters and rhythms that are clearly recognisable when watching the dame, the prince and the villain, whilst creating a new finale song to stage. All ages and abilities will be welcome. 12:00, 14:00. Advance booking essential for all activities via https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--edinburgh/king's-theatre-edinburgh/?q=King%27s%20Theatre%20edinburgh&lc=1 Please note only people with tickets to these activities will be allowed into the theatres, so make sure to book your space!
This historic building was constructed between 1842-45 as the Victoria Hall to house the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. The architects were James Gillespie Graham and Augustus Welby Pugin, famous for his work on the Houses of Parliament. In 1929 it became a temporary home for a variety of congregations. It was named the Highland Tolbooth St John’s Church in 1956, before falling into disuse in the 1980s. Today The Hub is home to the Edinburgh International Festival as well as an exciting venue for dinners and weddings. A café and box office are also located on the ground floor. www.thehub-edinburgh.com
The Grassmarket area is first recorded in the fourteenth century, when it was referred to as ‘the street called Newbygging under the castle’. By the 1470s the area was known as ‘Westirmart’, and seems to have been associated with the sale of timber, hats, and shoes. At the far end of the Grassmarket stood the gateway known as the West Port, which was in existence by at least 1509, and formed the western boundary of the burgh.
The Georgian House, a grand New Town house in Charlotte Square, was designed by celebrated classical architect Robert Adam in 1790. Three floors have been authentically restored and furnished to reflect the luxurious lifestyle of the first owners, the Lamont family, who moved in in 1796. See also the fabulous kitchen and servant’s room in the basement. ACTIVITIES Self-guided tours with information sheets and a guide in each room. 16-minute film “Living in a Grand Design” dramatises a ‘Day in the Life’ of those who lived in the house in the late 18th – early 19th century Activity room with replica costumes (for all ages), quill pens, handling objects, and colouring in. No need to book, but visitors may have to wait if the house is busy. www.nts.org.uk/Visit/Georgian-House/
This project adapts and extends a spare bedroom to provide new Summer + Garden Rooms for this end of terrace Victorian property. The project exploits the south-eastern orientation and offered a welcome opportunity to resolve some awkward geometry through the creation of a new hard landscaped terrace (edged by a line of free-standing oak pillars). The palette of materials acts as a deliberate contrast to the traditional stonework of the main house and includes hand-split oak shakes, sedum roof blanket, copper cladding panel and extensive areas of glazing. The ceiling comprises a zig-zag timber structure supporting a sedum roof comprising a variegated mix of heathers and mosses.