All of the museums and galleries you can visit for free in Edinburgh

In many ways Edinburgh is one city-sized, open-air museum, with curious monuments, architecture and stories around every corner.

Those looking to get even more closely acquainted with the city, however, also have access to a plethora of free and fascinating museums.

Museum of Edinburgh

Housed in a stunning yellow 16th century building, the Museum of Edinburgh delivers a detailed and varied history of Auld Reekie.

Highlights include the National covenant of 1638 and the bowl of Skye Terrier Greyfriar's Bobby.

Visit: 142-146 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DD - edinburghmuseums.org.uk

The Museum of Childhood

Exploring the history of childhood, this Royal Mile museum houses a remarkable collection of children's toys and playthings including a doll dating from 1740.

The museum will reopen following refurbishment in Spring.

Visit: 42 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TG - edinburghmuseums.org.uk

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

The quite stunning red sandstone building on Queen Street, holds a fascinating collection of portraits including historical figures from Mary Queen of Scots to Gordon Brown.

Visit: 1 Queen St, Edinburgh EH2 1JD - nationalgalleries.org

The Museum of Childhood is situated on the High Street (Photo: JP)

The People's Story Museum

Situated on the Canongate, The People's Story explores the history of Edinburgh's working class people from the 18th to the late 20th century.

Visit: 163 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8BN - edinburghmuseums.org.uk

The Writer's Museum

Hidden away in Makars Court The Writer's Museum explores the lives and careers of three famous Scottish writers; Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson and Robert Burns.

Visit: Lawnmarket, Lady Stair's Close, Edinburgh EH1 2PA - edinburghmuseums.org.uk

National Museum of Scotland

Stuffed animals, sarcophagi and ancient chessmen are all housed at the magnificent National Museum of Scotland. The museum's roof terrace is also worth a visit, offering unique views of the city.

Visit: Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF - nms.ac.uk

National Gallery of Scotland

Spawling across the delightful William Playfair designed building, the National Gallery of Scotland displays a variety of stunning artworks, most notably The Skating Minister by Henry Raeburn.

Visit: The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL - nationalgalleries.org

The Writer's Museum focuses on the lives of Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson and Robert Burns (Photo: JP)

Museum on the Mound

Despite its focus on all things money the Museum on the Mound is completely free. Housed in the Bank of Scotland head office, the museum contains exhibits exploring the history of Scottish banks and economics.

Visit: The Mound, Edinburgh EH1 1YZ - museumonthemound.com

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Situated in two opposing buildings the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art hosts marvellous and mind bending art from an intriguing variety of artists including; Eduardo Paolozzi, Salvador Dali and Nathan Coley.

Visit: 75 Belford Rd, Edinburgh EH4 3DR - nationalgalleries.org