Behind-the-scenes tours in Edinburgh

Ever wondered what happens beyond the public spaces of Edinburgh’s museums, theatres and cultural attractions? Go behind the scenes and discover the people, collections, craftsmanship and stories that help bring some of the city’s best-loved places to life.

The Toy Hospital Experience

Step inside a real working Toy Hospital and meet the ‘doll doctors’ and ‘teddy surgeons’ restoring much-loved toys. The Toy Hospital Experience offers a fascinating glimpse at traditional repair and restoration techniques, while revealing the stories behind antique dolls and treasured childhood bears.

By witnessing the before and after transformations, visitors will see the incredible results that come from dedication, artistry and love for the craft. The experience is designed to be intimate, with small group tours to ensure personalised attention and an engaging atmosphere. This hands-on experience is perfect for families, collectors, or anyone interested in the history and care of cherished childhood keepsakes.

Find out more about The Toy Hospital Experience tours

---

The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh

Go beyond the curtain at the Royal Lyceum Edinburgh with a backstage tour of this grand Victorian theatre. Explore spaces normally closed to the public, discover the theatre’s history, visit the working costume room and learn about the technical side of putting a production on stage. Discover the rich history of this historic venue, learn about its architectural features, and get insights into the theatre’s pioneering productions over the years.

Depending on the specific tour, you may even have the opportunity to stand beneath the theatre’s stunning proscenium arch. Tours are available by pre-arrangement for groups, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at one of Edinburgh’s most respected cultural landmarks.

Find out more about Royal Lyceum backstage tours

---

National Museums Collection Centre

Discover where millions of objects and specimens are cared for, researched and prepared for exhibition at the National Museums Collection Centre in Granton. Guided tours offer a rare opportunity to see behind the scenes of National Museums of Scotland, with collections ranging from whale skeletons and insects to motorbikes and high fashion. Regular tours are available for visitors aged 14 and over, making it an educational and inspiring experience for teens and adults alike.

Find out more and book a Collection Centre Tour

---

King’s Theatre

Uncover the rich history of Edinburgh’s beloved King’s Theatre with a behind-the-scenes backstage tour of its stunning newly redeveloped interiors. Explore areas normally hidden from the audience, including the dressing rooms, fly loft, and technical control rooms, while hearing captivating stories about the theatre’s iconic performances, legendary performers, and architectural marvels.

The King’s Theatre reopened in August 2026 following extensive redevelopment, restoring its historic charm and modern facilities.

Find out more and book a King’s Theatre Backstage Tour

---

Edinburgh Playhouse

Take a peek behind the curtains at one of Scotland’s largest and best-known theatres. Edinburgh Playhouse backstage tours provide an exciting opportunity to explore the costume department, where designers craft dazzling outfits, and discover the intricate craft of hair and makeup artistry used in productions. Visitors can step onto the famous stage, standing in the spotlight and imagining the thrill of live performance.

Tours offer a unique perspective on theatre production, revealing the hard work and creativity that happen behind the scenes beyond the audience’s view. Please note that tours are subject to the theatre’s production schedule and may vary throughout the year.

Find out more about Edinburgh Playhouse backstage tours

---

Festival Theatre

See how the magic happens behind the scenes at the Festival Theatre with a guided tour exploring its history, architecture and working spaces. Hear stories from the theatre’s past, discover how productions come together and take the opportunity to stand on stage. The tour lasts around two hours and offers a fascinating insight into one of Edinburgh’s most important performance venues.

Find out more about Festival Theatre backstage tours

---

Stadium Tours

Swap the auditorium for the stands and go behind the scenes at Edinburgh’s sporting venues. Stadium tours at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Hearts Stadium, and Hibernian Football Club offer access to areas normally reserved for players and staff, including changing rooms, tunnels, dugouts and other restricted areas.

These tours provide a memorable and engaging way to learn about Scottish sports culture and the history of Edinburgh’s football and rugby teams.

Explore Stadium Tours in Edinburgh

---

Doors Open Days

For one weekend each year, some of Edinburgh’s most intriguing buildings throw open their doors for free. Doors Open Days offers the chance to explore places that aren’t usually accessible to the public, with behind-the-scenes tours, talks, workshops and special events taking place across the city. Edinburgh’s 2026 programme includes venues such as the National Galleries of Scotland’s Granton Art Centre, Edinburgh Central Library, Royal Observatory and McEwan Hall.

Discover this year’s Doors Open Days programme

---

---