Engineering Better Lives for 50 Years
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Start date
July 1, 2026 7:00 am
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End date
September 1, 2026 8:00 pm
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St Andrew Square Garden
St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2AD
Engineering Better Lives for 50 Years is a free outdoor photography exhibition in St Andrew Square Garden from 29 June to 1 September 2026. It marks the Royal Academy of Engineering’s 50th anniversary through portraits of engineers whose work has shaped modern life.
Photojournalist Jude Vidal photographed 50 engineers in homes, laboratories, offices, workshops, and outdoor settings connected to their work.
Key Event Details
| Event | Engineering Better Lives for 50 Years |
| Date(s) | 29 June to 1 September 2026 |
| Time | 7am to 8pm daily |
| Location | St Andrew Square Garden |
| Entry | Free |
| Event type | Outdoor photography and engineering exhibition |
What To Expect
The exhibition covers subjects such as radar, telecommunications, artificial intelligence, wind turbines, satellites, healthcare, and infrastructure. The portraits focus on the people behind the work, ranging from senior figures in industry and universities to entrepreneurs and emerging problem-solvers.
The display is installed outdoors around the garden and can be viewed during normal opening hours without joining a tour. It is suitable for all ages and works as either a short city-centre stop or a longer read through the full set of stories.
Entry and Practical Information
Entry is free and no booking is needed. The exhibition is available on a drop-in basis from 7am to 8pm daily. Check the Edinburgh Science event page for any access or closing updates.
Location and Getting There
The display is inside St Andrew Square Garden in the New Town. St Andrew Square tram stop and Edinburgh Bus Station are beside the garden, while Waverley station is around five to ten minutes away on foot.
Our Tips
- Visit in daylight if you want to read every caption clearly.
- Allow around 30 minutes for a fuller look at the complete portrait series.
- Check for temporary garden closures during other city-centre events.
Dates, opening hours, and exhibition information are published by Edinburgh Science.