Surgeons' Hall Museums

About

Surgeons' Hall Museums is a dynamic showcase of the history of surgery, anatomy and medical science housed within the iconic William Playfair building of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. Since its reopening in 2015 after a major £4.4 million redevelopment, the museum has expanded to include four permanent galleries – the Wohl Pathology Museum, the History of Surgery Museum, the Dental Collection and the Body Voyager Gallery – each offering engaging displays, interactive exhibits, and rare artefacts. Visitors walk through centuries of medical practice, from the earliest anatomical specimens to modern robotic surgery, as they explore the Wohl Pathology Museum’s extensive collection of surgical artefacts, the History of Surgery Museum’s narrative of surgical evolution, the Dental Collection’s comprehensive array of dental items, and the immersive Body Voyager Gallery’s interactive simulations. The museum’s layout, designed for both education and public enjoyment, encourages hands‑on learning, film presentations, and specialised workshops. Open every day from 10 am to 5 pm, the museum welcomes visitors of all ages. Booking is not required, though visitors planning large groups may wish to contact the museum in advance. The museum’s free admission policy makes it an accessible destination for families, history enthusiasts, science lovers, and students seeking to explore the fascinating journey of medical science in Scotland and beyond.

Highlights

• Wohl Pathology Museum
• History of Surgery Museum
• Dental Collection
• Body Voyager Gallery

Must-See Areas

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 2 hours