Summerhall

From vet school to arts hub

The main building was purpose-built for the Royal (Dick) Veterinary College, which moved in from 1916 and stayed until it relocated to Easter Bush in 2010. Since then the warren of former lecture theatres, labs and stables has become studios, galleries and performance spaces. Long before the vets, the site was home to a brewery from the 1710s.

What's on

The programme mixes visual art exhibitions, theatre, live music, ceilidhs and drawing classes, with free shows in some gallery spaces. Summerhall Arts, a charity set up by former staff and tenants, took a lease on the main building in 2025 and ran its 14th Fringe programme that August. The on-site Royal Dick bar and Barney's Beer brewery add to an evening visit.

Planning a visit

Check the website for current exhibitions and tickets before you go, as the programme changes week to week. It's about a kilometre south of the Old Town, so it pairs well with the National Museum of Scotland and Greyfriars Kirkyard, or with a walk across the Meadows. The site is under redevelopment plans, so expect some changes over the coming years.

Highlights

• Arts centre in the former Royal (Dick) Vet School
• Exhibitions, theatre, ceilidhs and classes
• Major Edinburgh Fringe venue
• The Royal Dick bar and Barney's Beer on site

Good to know

• Programme changes frequently – check summerhallarts.co.uk for what's on.
• The site owner has announced redevelopment plans, with a planning application expected in early 2027.

Frequently asked questions