Marking the 400 year anniversary of his death, this new exhibition at National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait charts King James’s remarkable reign through stories of friendship, family, feuds and ambition.
Featuring ornate paintings, dazzling jewels, lavish textiles, rare books and manuscripts, alongside some of the most iconic historical portraits from Scotland’s national collection, visitors will be able to learn more about this often-misunderstood monarch. A fully immersive experience, there’ll even be the chance to discover the sights, sounds (and even smells) of the era.
Born in Edinburgh Castle on 19 June 1566, King James was the son of Mary, Queen of Scots, successor to Elizabeth I and the first monarch to rule over Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales.
As well as bringing King James’s story to life, this new exhibition transports visitors into the world in which he lived and ruled, celebrating craft, visual arts, literature and performance from the 16th and 17th centuries. It also offers new perspectives on the King’s life by drawing on themes of contemporary relevance including national identity, queer histories and spirituality and belief.
A number of related events, including tours, workshops and lectures, will also run as part of the exhibition. Pre-booking is required.
The Portrait Gallery is on Queen Street in the city centre. The nearest Edinburgh Trams stop is St Andrew Square. The gallery has wheelchair access and accessible toilets.
The World of King James VI and I runs from 26 April to 14 September 2025.
