National Museums Scotland is a unique combination of world-class collections, programmes, places and people. Our multi-disciplinary collection is an important resource, historically, culturally and scientifically, which we seek to share as widely as possible through our mission to preserve, interpret and make accessible for all, the past and present of Scotland, other nations and cultures, and the natural world. We care for internationally significant collections of natural sciences, decorative arts, craft, design and fashion from across the world, science and technology, and Scottish history and archaeology. These collections span thousands of years and we use them and their stories to engage the public in exploring the world through our displays and exhibitions, our online presence, national and international engagement programmes, schools’ programmes and resources.  

Millions of local and international visitors enjoy our four museums each year:  

  • The National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh  
  • The National War Museum within Edinburgh Castle  
  • The National Museum of Flight in East Lothian  
  • The National Museum of Rural Life near East Kilbride 
     

The National Museums Collection Centre in Granton, north Edinburgh is our international hub for collections research, access and storage. It is the home of our conservation studios and a centre of expertise, providing a platform for cutting-edge research and innovation, interdisciplinary study, specialist training and advanced teaching. It provides vital support for our national and international activities. 

We are nothing without our people: the audiences, supporters, partners, volunteers and colleagues who make our work come alive. Our team possesses a wide range of expertise, skill, and experience, focused towards understanding, caring for and sharing our collections and estate. As one of the leading museum groups in Europe, the cultural, social, educational and economic impact of our work is wide-reaching. We are proud of our contribution to the creation and promotion of world-class culture in Scotland which makes it a more attractive place to live and work and brings pleasure to residents and visitors.  

We are a Scottish Charity and a Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB) supported through Grant-in-Aid from the Scottish Government and governed by an independent Board of Trustees.

We are planning multiple events across our sites for Insect Week 2024, including collection tours at the National Museums collection Centre, a panel event at the National Museum of Scotland and moth trapping events at the National Museum of Flight.

Find out more: https://www.nms.ac.uk/ 

National Museums Scotland

More from National Museums Scotland...

Events

  • Find Out Friday – Celebrating Insect Week

    Edinburgh, Midlothian
    Friday 26th June 2026, 13:30 to 16:00

    Drop in to the Museum of Scotland to get up close with our special entomology collection.

  • Bugs and Beasties Trail

    East Kilbride, Glasgow
    Saturday 27th June 2026, 00:00 to Thursday 16th July 2026, 23:00

    Our popular Bugs and Beasties Trail is back for summer 2026.

  • Scottish Ornithology Club BioBlitz with National Museums Scotland

    Aberlady
    Saturday 27th June 2026, 10:30 to 15:30

    The SOC, in partnership with National Museums Scotland, will be hosting its first-ever BioBlitz at Waterston House…

  • Summer Family Fun at National Museums Scotland

    Edinburgh, Midlothian
    Monday 6th July 2026, 10:00 to Friday 10th July 2026, 16:00

    We're still celebrating Insect Week with two days of free drop in activities for families at the National Museum of Scotland…