Physicians’ Gallery Spotlight Talks
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Start date
July 29, 2026 12:30 pm
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End date
October 28, 2026
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Physicians’ Gallery
11 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 1JQ
Physicians’ Gallery Spotlight Talks are a series of free 20-minute sessions exploring objects from the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh collection. The 2026 talks run on selected Wednesdays from 29 July to 28 October at 12.30pm.
Each session focuses closely on one object or medical subject, giving visitors a concise introduction from a gallery curator.
Key Event Details
| Event | Physicians’ Gallery Spotlight Talks |
| Date(s) | 29 July, 26 August, 30 September, and 28 October 2026 |
| Time | 12.30pm to 12.50pm |
| Location | Physicians’ Gallery, 11 Queen Street |
| Entry | Free; booking required |
| Event type | Curator-led gallery talks |
What To Expect
The series begins with Antimony on 29 July, examining a substance once promoted as an everlasting medicine despite its poisonous and vomit-inducing effects. A talk on James Young Simpson follows on 26 August, covering the Edinburgh doctor associated with the development of anaesthesia.
The 30 September session considers the controversial history of the straitjacket. The final talk on 28 October explores a Jacobite medicine chest containing 147 medicines and linked to a doctor who served Bonnie Prince Charlie.
Entry and Practical Information
All four talks are free, but places must be booked in advance. Reserve the required date through the individual listings on the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh events page.
Location and Getting There
The talks take place at the Physicians’ Gallery at 11 Queen Street in the New Town. Princes Street and St Andrew Square tram stops are within walking distance, and buses serve nearby Hanover Street and George Street.
Our Tips
- Book each date separately because the talks cover different objects.
- Arrive before 12.30pm because the sessions last only 20 minutes.
- Leave time to view the wider gallery before or after the talk.
Current talk descriptions and booking links are available from the Physicians’ Gallery events programme.