If you love contemporary art, or are simply interested in one of Edinburgh’s lesser-known attractions, check out Jupiter Artland. This original and unusual museum is a stunning outdoor sculpture park in the grounds of an old manor house, and the trip out there will be well worth it.
Just outside Edinburgh
The first thing to bear in mind when planning your visit is that Jupiter Artland is outside Edinburgh, in Wilkieston, West Lothian, a little over half an hour away by car or bus.
Sculptures and landforms to stimulate your senses
Jupiter Artland will surprise you at every turn: it is an incredible park of sculptures and impossible landforms.
The works fill the grounds of a 17th-century manor house, creating a strange and fascinating harmony between nature and culture.
Practical information
Opening times
- April to October
- Daily, 10am–5pm
- November to March
- Thursday to Sunday, 10am–5pm
Closed in January. Last entry 3.30pm. Opening days change each year, so check the official website before you go.
Tickets
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | £14.50 |
| Over 65s | £13 |
| Child (5–16) | £9.50 |
| Child (0–4) | Free |
A huge collection of contemporary art
Jupiter Artland’s collection, with works by both Scottish and international artists, is spread over more than 100 acres (40 hectares). If you want to see it all, take your time.
You’ll be given a map at the start showing where each work is, but don’t worry if you’re not great with maps: there is no set route, and you are encouraged to explore on your own.
Lose yourself in this fantastic woodland full of art and discover its surprises, so every visit will be different. Look out for Cells of Life by Charles Jencks, a series of undulating hills and lakes; the tiny Japanese bells of Christian Boltanski’s Animitas, arranged to replicate a map of the stars; and Love Bomb by Marc Quinn, a 12-metre-high orchid.
The story of Jupiter Artland
Jupiter Artland was founded by Robert and Nicky Wilson in the grounds of their home, Bonnington House.
The project began in the 2000s with the aim of creating a collection of contemporary art designed specifically for the landscape. Rather than simply installing finished sculptures, artists were invited to create works directly linked to the topography, vegetation and history of the estate.
The park opened to the public in 2009, and has since added new permanent installations, temporary exhibitions and educational projects.
It is also a charity: ticket sales help fund workshops, school visits and creative programmes for young Scottish artists. Visits by schools, universities and community groups are free, and there are regular talks, tours, workshops and live performances.
Eating at Jupiter Artland
There is a café where you can eat inside Jupiter Artland, but to protect the collection, you can’t eat anywhere else on site, and picnics are not permitted.
Animals are not allowed, except assistance dogs.
Location
You can find Jupiter Artland in the grounds of Bonnington House, in Wilkieston, West Lothian. You can get there on the Lothian Country X27 bus, getting off at Coxydene/Jupiter Artland, about 40 minutes from Edinburgh.
Get directions to Jupiter Artland.