Modern Two

Modern Two is one of Edinburgh’s main modern art galleries, sitting on Belford Road opposite Modern One and a short walk from the West End.It shows modern and contemporary art, temporary exhibitions, archive material, sculpture, and installations.

Admission: Free admission, with some paid exhibitions and events

The gallery is part of the National Galleries of Scotland and mixes temporary exhibitions with permanent displays, archive material, and large-scale installations. Regular highlights include Eduardo Paolozzi’s reconstructed studio, Richard Wright’s Stairwell Project, and sculpture in the surrounding grounds.

It’s a useful stop if you want a quieter gallery visit away from the city centre, but still within easy reach of Princes Street, Haymarket and the Water of Leith. Modern Two is also home to Paolozzi’s Kitchen, the gallery café set around Paolozzi’s large Vulcan sculpture.

Modern Two is often used for major National Galleries exhibitions, so it’s worth checking what’s on before visiting. Modern One is directly across the road, making it easy to visit both galleries in one trip.

What To Expect

Modern Two is best for modern and contemporary art, temporary exhibitions, sculpture, archive displays and quieter gallery visits.

The building also includes the Print Room, Library, and Archive, which are open by appointment. Outside, the grounds link into the wider Modern gallery site, with sculpture and green space around both Modern One and Modern Two.

Facilities:

• Free general admission
• Café
• Shop
• Toilets
• Accessible toilets
• Wheelchair access
• Lockers
• Baby changing facilities
• Seating throughout the gallery
• Bike racks
• Visitor parking
• Accessible parking for Blue Badge holders

Getting There

Modern Two is on Belford Road, around 15 minutes’ walk from the West End of Princes Street and Haymarket Station.

By train or tram, Haymarket is the nearest major stop. From there, walk down Palmerston Place and continue onto Belford Road.

By bus, Service 13 serves the Modern gallery site.

Visitor parking is available at Modern One and Modern Two. The official gallery information lists parking charges of £5 for up to 4 hours and £9 for 4-8 hours. Blue Badge parking is free for disabled visitors.

Good To Know:

• Modern One is directly across the road.
• The grounds include sculpture and outdoor artwork.
• Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.
• The gallery is a good wet-weather option near the West End.
• Check the official National Galleries page before visiting for current exhibitions and access updates.