The big black doors at the National Museum of Scotland opened to visitors again today.
Visitors have to book in advance for a certain arrival time, but it is all free as normal.
Any high touch areas and smaller spaces where physical distancing cannot be maintained are out of bounds, with a range of other measures such as face coverings and hand sanitiser used to keep visitors and staff safe.
Dr Chris Breward, Director of National Museums Scotland said: “We are really pleased to be able to welcome visitors back to the National Museum of Scotland. It’s such a treasured public space, and I know that many people will be just like me – excited to become reacquainted with objects almost as though they were old friends, including the Lewis chess pieces, T.rex, Dolly the Sheep or the amazing Paco Rabanne metal tunic.
“The safety of our staff and visitors is paramount, which is why we are taking a phased approach to reopening among a host of other measures designed to make sure everyone can feel confident that their visit will be both safe and enjoyable.”
One of the most notable changes is that all visitors, including Members, will have to book a timed entry slot online before visiting. This allows visitor numbers to be managed so that physical distancing can be maintained within the museum. In response to the most recent Scottish Government advice face coverings are now required in all the indoor spaces. The Museum shop and a pop-up café will also be open, for cashless payments only.
The National Museum of Scotland’s opening hours will change to 10.30 – 16.30. This is to allow the large staff team to arrive and implement their daily health and safety checks of the building safely.
The latest information and guidance on how to visit all museums can be found on the website: nms.ac.uk/reopening
National Museums Scotland has been awarded the UK-wide, industry standard “We’re Good To Go” accreditation. This means they have followed government and public health guidelines, have carried out Covid-19 risk assessments and have the appropriate processes in place.
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