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Located in Edinburgh's city centre, we are easy to reach by public transport and on foot from all areas of the city.
Collective Gallery
City Observatory, 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh, EH7 5AA
Collective is situated on the top of Calton Hill, in the heart of Edinburgh. Calton Hill is a public park and there is no vehicle access, except for disabled visitors. Steps lead up the hill from Waterloo Place and Royal Terrace.
Bikes can be locked to the rack at the base of the steps on Waterloo Place, or outside of our main East Gate entrance.
Regular Lothian buses stop on Waterloo Place and Royal Terrace
Edinburgh trams run regular services between the airport and Newhaven. Our nearest tram stops are at Picardy Place and St Andrew Square.
Waverley station is just a few minutes away on foot
There is no vehicle access (except for disabled visitors) or parking at Collective and we encourage visitors to use public transport wherever possible. The nearest Pay & Display car parking is on Regent Road or at the Q-Park Omni.
Taxi drop-off and pick-up (no parking) is permitted via the access road.
Collective is in an exposed location on top of Calton Hill and exploring the site does involve being outdoors, so please check the forecast and dress accordingly.
Gallery toilets are located on the north side of Collective, beneath the Lookout restaurant. A 50p donation is requested.
Accessible toilets are available in the City Observatory and The Hillside on request.
Please note: toilets are only open during our opening hours.
There is seating throughout the grounds of Collective for you to enjoy the views from. Limited seating is available inside the City Observatory. Folding stools are available in all of our exhibition spaces.
Due to lack of space there is no left luggage facility or cloakroom at Collective – if travelling with large bags please leave them at the Waverley station left luggage facility. Buggies are welcome inside the grounds and may be left at the entrances to exhibitions at your own risk.
Dogs are welcome inside the grounds, provided they are kept on a leash at all times, and water is available at our coffee stand. Please do not bring dogs (except assistance dogs) inside the buildings.
Collective provides a welcoming and supportive environment for breastfeeding parents.
Situated on Calton Hill, Collective Gallery Coffee is a unique spot to enjoy a coffee with some of the best views in Edinburgh, whether you’re visiting the gallery or passing by. While there is no seating, you’ll find plenty of lovely spots across the grounds and benches on Calton Hill nearby. Located at the East Gate entrance by the access road turning circle, the kiosk serves hot and cold drinks, snacks and seasonal specials, including our summer special, Mackies Ice Cream.
Pick up a loyalty card and enjoy your 10th hot drink free!
Perched at the top of Calton Hill, Cafe Calton is a unique place to enjoy breakfast, brunch or evening drinks with some of the best panoramic views in Edinburgh. Whether you’re stopping by after a walk or booking for a special occasion, the café offers a relaxed setting with indoor dining and an outdoor terrace overlooking the city. The menu changes through the day, with locally sourced seasonal dishes, coffee, cocktails and small plates, all served in one of Edinburgh’s most memorable locations. Booking is recommended for food, while terrace drinks are available for walk-ins.
A series of audio guides commissioned by Collective and created by artists to be listened to on Calton Hill.
Explore Observers'Walks
We welcome photography for personal use at Collective.
We can also offer a unique setting for professional photography and film shoots, with panoramic views over the city and a variety of contemporary and period settings. Contact us for more details or to request a booking.
Donate today to support our work with artists and maintain our unique home.
