Dovecot Tapestry Studio Weaving Floor, photo credit Shannon Tofts
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Dovecot Studios & Tapestry Gallery Edinburgh

4.6
·561 reviews·, United Kingdom

Witness master weavers at work and explore vibrant textile art exhibitions in a stunning Edinburgh gallery.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

See weavers at work

CrowdLow
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Dovecot Tapestry Studio Weaving Floor, photo credit Shannon Tofts

Dovecot Studios & Tapestry Gallery Edinburgh

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

See weavers at work

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness master weavers at work and explore vibrant textile art exhibitions in a stunning Edinburgh gallery.

4.6
(561 reviews)

"Dovecot Studios must be one of the nicest galleries in Edinburgh!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👂 Listen to the Loom

Turn up the sound on videos to hear the satisfying ASMR of weaving!

🎨 Color Everywhere!

From the tapestries to the cafe, Dovecot is a feast for the eyes.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 561 reviews

Type

Art Gallery

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Tapestry Weaving Studio

Live Tapestry Weaving Studio

Viewing Balcony

Witness the intricate art of tapestry weaving firsthand. Mesmerizing sounds and skilled artisans at work.

Rotating Art Exhibitions

Rotating Art Exhibitions

Gallery Spaces

Explore diverse and vibrant exhibitions, from Scottish Colourists to contemporary textile art.

Curated Gift Shop

Curated Gift Shop

Ground Floor

Discover unique handcrafted items, textiles, and art from local makers and artists.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Weaving Wonders

Catch the mesmerizing tapestry weaving process live! While exhibitions change, the studio is always active. Check their schedule for special events or artist talks to enhance your experience. Consider visiting during weekdays to potentially avoid larger crowds.

Edinburgh Art & Craft Hub

Dovecot Studios is more than just a gallery; it's a working tapestry studio. Explore vibrant exhibitions, witness master weavers at work from a unique viewing balcony, and browse a curated gift shop featuring local artists. It's a must-visit for textile art enthusiasts.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
See weavers at work
Crowd
Low
When
During exhibition openings
Why
New art and buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

sound up for some satisfying weaving sounds🥰 earlier this week it was Joan Eardley’s 104th birthday, so we’re resharing this lovely clip of Naomi weaving ‘July Fields’ which was commissioned to celebrate the centenary of her birth in 2021🌾 #DovecotStudios #TapestryStudio #tapestry #EdinburghGallery #weaving #yarn #wool
@dovecotstudios
251 likes • 4.5K views

👂 Listen to the Loom

Turn up the sound on videos to hear the satisfying ASMR of weaving! TikTok+2

🎨 Color Everywhere!

From the tapestries to the cafe, Dovecot is a feast for the eyes. Instagram

sound up for this asmr weaving from our apprentice Sophie 🧵🩷 #DovecotStudios #TapestryStudio #EdinburghGallery #tapestry #weaving #VisitScotland #VisitEdinburgh #asmr
@dovecotstudios
248 likes • 7.3K views
Colours around Dovecot Studios! 🌈 Dovecot Studios is always bursting with colours, even in unexpected places! From the Tapestry Weaving Studio, Viewing Balcony, gallery spaces, cafe and gift shop, there are pops of colour all around! ❤️💙💚💛🧡💜 #DovecotStudios #TapestryStudio #VisitDovecot #VisitEdinburgh
dovecotstudios
268 likes • 3.2K views

🎟️ Exhibition Tickets

Main exhibitions usually require paid admission. Check their website for current shows and prices. Instagram

🚗 Parking Advice

On-street parking is expensive; consider public transport or walking. Reddit

Finally got to visit Dovecot Studios in Edinburgh to see Ptolemy Mann’s Woven Colour exhibition which not only features our handwoven Gelims but Ptolemy’s Thread Paintings. Thank you Heather @dovecotstudios for our private tour. The exhibition has been extended to 17th May. #dovecotstudios #edinburghgallery #ptolemymann #gelims #kelims #rugs #handwoven #threadpainting @ptolemymann.art @gelim.co
juliantherugmaker
69 likes • 729 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👂 Listen to the Loom

Turn up the sound on videos to hear the satisfying ASMR of weaving! TikTok+2

🎨 Color Everywhere!

From the tapestries to the cafe, Dovecot is a feast for the eyes. Instagram

🎟️ Exhibition Tickets

Main exhibitions usually require paid admission. Check their website for current shows and prices. Instagram

🚗 Parking Advice

On-street parking is expensive; consider public transport or walking. Reddit

🧶 Tapestry Yarn Source

The shop at Dovecot is a great place to find tapestry wool if you're a weaver. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(561 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Dovecot Studios is highly praised as one of Edinburgh's nicest galleries, lauded for its well-curated exhibitions, stunning architecture, and the unique opportunity to watch tapestry weavers at work. Visitors appreciate the bright cafe and the selection in the gift shop, though some note the expense of on-street parking.

"Dovecot Studios must be one of the nicest galleries in Edinburgh!

To visit during the VICTORIA CROWE - Shifting Surfaces exhibition is an added bonus.

We have been visiting Dovecot for years and always love the exhibitions, the amazing space, the light, the galleries, the cafe and the staff, thank you."

DOVETAIL

"The place is very well-curated, featuring interesting exhibitions and nicely-stocked shop. I also recommend escaping the hubbub of the streets to watch artists hard at work from the gallery.
Don't be fooled by on-street parking spaces - these are prohibitively expensive, it's better to use public transport or leave car elsewhere and walk."

Lena

"Excellent exhibition centre. There is always a main (paying) exhibition and there is a great little cafe for a light lunch. You can view craftspeople at work from the second floor balcony which itself displays wall coverings and rugs."

Joanna Mitchell

What People Like

Beautiful gallery space
Live weaving demonstrations
Interesting exhibitions

What People Dislike

Expensive parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Dovecot Studios is located on Infirmary Street in Edinburgh's city center. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, be aware that on-street parking is very expensive; it's recommended to use public transport or park in a city center car park and walk. Reddit

Dovecot Studios is generally accessible, with lifts to access different levels, including the viewing balcony. It's always a good idea to contact them directly if you have specific accessibility needs.

The Royal Mile is a short walk from Dovecot Studios. Head down towards the South Bridge and Infirmary Street. It's a pleasant stroll through the heart of the city.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the main gallery spaces and exhibitions typically requires a paid ticket. However, you can often visit the cafe and gift shop without purchasing an exhibition ticket. Check their website for current exhibition details and pricing. Instagram

Opening hours can vary depending on the exhibitions and events. It's best to check the official Dovecot Studios website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and exhibition dates. Instagram

While the primary viewing balcony overlooks the studio, access to this area is usually included with an exhibition ticket. This allows visitors to appreciate both the art and the craft. Reddit

Dovecot Studios occasionally hosts free events or has specific times for free entry, especially during festivals or special occasions. It's advisable to monitor their website and social media for announcements regarding free access periods.

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

You can explore rotating art exhibitions, watch tapestry weavers at work from a viewing balcony, enjoy the cafe, and shop for unique crafts and textiles in their gift shop. InstagramReddit

Yes, Dovecot Studios has a bright and airy cafe that's a great spot for a light lunch or coffee. It's often praised for its pleasant atmosphere. Reddit

Dovecot showcases a range of art, with a strong focus on textiles and tapestry. They feature exhibitions by renowned artists, including historical movements like the Scottish Colourists, as well as contemporary textile artists. Instagram+1

Yes, the Dovecot Studios shop is known to stock tapestry wool, making it a valuable resource for weavers. Reddit

The studio's airy spaces, vibrant colors in exhibitions, and the intricate details of tapestries offer great photographic opportunities. The natural light is also a plus. Instagram

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Gifts

The gift shop offers a curated selection of items from local artists and makers, including textiles, ceramics, jewelry, prints, and unique souvenirs. It's a great place to find gifts. Instagram

Many items in the gift shop are handcrafted by local artists and designers, reflecting the studio's commitment to craft and artistry. Instagram

Yes, the shop at Dovecot Studios is a recommended place to purchase tapestry wool for your weaving projects. Reddit

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