Edinburgh Futures Institute

Edinburgh Futures Institute is the University of Edinburgh’s teaching, research, and public engagement centre inside the restored former Royal Infirmary on Lauriston Place. The building brings together academic programmes, events, exhibitions, talks, and collaborative projects focused on major social and technological questions.

The redevelopment has retained key parts of the historic hospital while creating new teaching rooms, event spaces, public areas, and a central courtyard. It is also the main home of the Edinburgh International Book Festival, which uses the building and surrounding outdoor spaces each August.

Events and Public Spaces

EFI runs a public programme alongside its University work. Events can cover data, artificial intelligence, culture, climate, cities, public services, creative industries, and the future of education. Some require advance registration, while others are open drop-in sessions or exhibitions.

The Canopy Kitchen and Courtyard provides food, drinks, and a meeting place within the complex. Access to teaching and research areas is restricted, so visitors attending an event should check which entrance and room are listed on their booking confirmation.

Location and Accessibility

The main address is 1 Lauriston Place, beside the Meadows and within walking distance of Tollcross, Bruntsfield, and the Old Town. The building has accessible entrances, lifts to all floors, accessible toilets, braille signage, and wheelchair-friendly door fittings.

Several buses stop on Lauriston Place and nearby Lothian Road. Waverley and Haymarket stations are both around 20 to 25 minutes away on foot. Visit the official Edinburgh Futures Institute website for opening hours, event listings, and visitor information.