National Museums Scotland

Event types

Whatever the occasion, you can celebrate in style with National Museums Scotland.

Award ceremonies

The elegant Hawthornden Court and the unique Concorde Experience are ideal venues for spectacular award ceremonies. Previous ceremonies have included The Scottish Politician of the Year Award, The Business Inside Awards, The Inaugural Man Booker International Prize and the Green Energy Awards.

Drinks reception

An evening reception provides a unique and prestigious opportunity to enjoy the National Museum of Scotland and its treasures after opening hours. The galleries can accommodate up to 1,200 guests for a drinks reception, product launch or celebration party combined with private views of special exhibitions, if desired. Each event is planned to the last detail by the Museums' events staff.

"We needed a venue that could reflect the strong Scottish heritage of Whisky, which provided a modern and contemporary backdrop for a launch that represented the future as much as the past. The profile and nature of the venue, along with the event management, all contributed to an event that was probably the best launch we have done."
Cathy Law, Brands PR Manager, Glenmorangie

Fashion shows

The elegant Hawthornden Court of the National Museum of Scotland is a fabulous venue for a grand fashion show. Whether it be with a catwalk from one end of Hawthornden Court to the other or salon style, the space is flexible.  

"I would have no hesitation in recommending the National Museum of Scotland to any potential client looking for unparalleled service in a truly extraordinary venue. Our event will certainly be remembered for a long time to come"
Mary McGowan, Cruise

Formal dinners

Hawthornden Court and the Early People Gallery in the architecturally stunning modern part of the National Museum of Scotland are suitable for smaller dinners for between 20 to 120 guests.  For larger events, the Concorde Experience provides a dramatic and prestigious backdrop accommodating up to 800 people under the wings of Concorde.

Offering the warmest Scottish welcome to your guests, the Museum also offers a fully inclusive event including superb entertainment and exquisite menus.

"We felt that the evening was a great success - the meal was excellent, the staff unfailingly helpful and professional and the venue certainly had the impact we were hoping for. Holding the drinks reception in the Early People Gallery allowed our guests the chance to relax and mix informally and we received very favourable feedback on the evening about the dramatic venue.
Laura Milne, Conference Producer, Society of Chemical Industry

Graduation ceremonies

The National Museum of Scotland is perfect for graduation ceremonies with larger facilities such as Hawthornden Court, or in the smaller galleries such as the Early People Gallery or Kingdom of the Scots.  All of these areas offer an unusual and impressive setting for ceremonies and offer graduates and parents terrific photo opportunities in the gallery spaces and out on the front steps in good weather.

Graduates, proud parents and teachers can enjoy receptions in neighbouring galleries after the ceremony closes.

Weddings

Imagine your wedding taking place in one of Scotland's most iconic buildings, in spaces flooded with light and serenity.

The Museums can offer spaces for civil or religious services, blessings and renewals of vows. We can accomodate small intimate weddings, large lively gatherings and anything in between. Choose from the Scottish stone splendour of the National Museum of Scotland or the 20th century's most famous plane - Concorde!

All of the venues offer unique and inspirational spaces for the joyful celebration of your wedding.