Museum on the Mound in Edinburgh: Where Money and History Meet

Introduction

Perched above the city in the historic Bank of Scotland headquarters, the Museum on the Mound in Edinburgh is one of Scotland’s most unusual and fascinating museums. Dedicated to the story of money, banking, and finance, it brings to life a subject that affects us all but is rarely told in such an engaging way.

Inside, you’ll discover the origins of trade and currency, see Scotland’s earliest coins and banknotes, and even handle a real million pounds—a highlight that makes visitors’ eyes widen in amazement. The museum also explores savings, crime and forgery, and how people managed their finances across centuries.

It’s not just about numbers and notes. The Museum on the Mound offers an insight into Scotland’s social and economic history, showing how money shaped everyday lives. Whether you’re a history lover, a curious traveler, or a family with children, it’s a place that blends education with fun. And best of all? Admission is free, making it one of Edinburgh’s best hidden treasures.

What is the Museum on the Mound famous for?

The Museum on the Mound is famous for being Scotland’s museum of money. It’s especially popular for its display of £1 million in cash, as well as collections of rare coins, banknotes, and historical artefacts connected to banking, saving, and spending.

Why should you visit the Museum on the Mound?

You should visit the Museum on the Mound because it’s:

A unique museum you won’t find anywhere else in Scotland.

Perfect for families, with interactive exhibits and activities for children.

A chance to touch a million pounds and learn about money in a hands-on way.

Free to enter, making it one of Edinburgh’s best budget-friendly attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit the Museum on the Mound?

🕒 Opening hours:

Tuesday to Friday: 10 am – 5 pm

Saturday: 1 pm – 5 pm

Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and bank holidays.

🌞 Best times to visit: Mornings on weekdays tend to be quieter. Weekends can be busier, especially during school holidays.

How much does it cost to visit the Museum on the Mound?

Admission to the Museum on the Mound is free for everyone.

What can you see or do at the Museum on the Mound?

Highlights of the Museum on the Mound include:

A real £1 million display – one of the most photographed exhibits in Edinburgh.

Ancient and modern coins and banknotes from Scotland and beyond.

Interactive exhibits for children, including puzzles and treasure hunts.

Displays about banking history, including crime, security, and savings.

Views over Edinburgh from the building’s location on the Mound.

What is the history behind the Museum on the Mound?

The museum is housed in the grand Bank of Scotland Head Office, built in 1806, a landmark of Edinburgh’s New Town. The collection reflects the role Scotland played in developing modern banking, including the introduction of paper money in the 17th century.

Opened in 2006, the Museum on the Mound explores not just banking but also the wider history of money in society—how people earned, saved, borrowed, and sometimes stole it. It tells the story of how Scotland became a financial hub, with Edinburgh still known today as one of Europe’s leading financial centres.

Where is the Museum on the Mound located and how do you get there?

📍 Location: Bank of Scotland Head Office, The Mound, Edinburgh EH1 1YZ.

How to get there:

🚶 On foot: A short walk from Princes Street or the Royal Mile.

🚆 By train: 10 minutes from Waverley Station.

🚌 By bus: Numerous Lothian Bus services stop nearby on Princes Street.

🚗 By car: Limited parking in the city centre; public transport is recommended.

Insider Tips for Visiting the Museum on the Mound

📸 Don’t miss the chance to take a photo with £1 million in cash.

🧒 Families should ask about children’s activity sheets, which make the visit extra fun.

🕰️ Allow at least an hour to explore, but budget more time if you enjoy reading the detailed exhibits.

Nearby Attractions to the Museum on the Mound

Princes Street Gardens – A beautiful public park just steps away.

Edinburgh Castle – The city’s most iconic landmark, just a 10-minute walk uphill.

Scott Monument – A Gothic tower with panoramic city views.

National Gallery of Scotland – World-class art, right at the foot of the Mound.

Royal Mile – Historic streets filled with shops, cafés, and museums.

Turn Your Visit into an Adventure

The Museum on the Mound isn’t just about coins and banknotes—it’s about the story of how money shaped Edinburgh and Scotland. From rare artefacts to interactive fun, it’s a must-visit for curious minds.

👉 Make your visit even more exciting with a Questo quest. Explore the streets around the Mound, uncover hidden stories, and turn Edinburgh’s history into your own interactive adventure.