3000-year-old secret of the Peebles Hoard revealed
A year on from its acquisition by National Museums Scotland, initial conservation work has revealed exceptionally rare silver-coloured objects in one of the most significant hoards ever discovered in Scotland.
Fossil discovery reveals new species of fanged reptile that once roamed Scotland
A fossil discovered on the Isle of Skye has revealed a new species and family of Jurassic reptile linked to the origins of lizards and snakes.
Evidence for medieval hair styling at the iconic Eilean Donan castle is revealed as rich archaeological assemblage is acquired for the nation
A rare 13th century tool used for styling hair has been acquired by National Museums Scotland after being discovered during archaeological excavations at one of the country's most famous castles.
The Abernethy Pearl, one of the largest ever found in Scotland, is donated to the National Collection
The largest freshwater pearl to be found in Scotland in centuries has been donated to the National Collection. Perfectly round, 11mm in diameter and weighing 43.6 grains, the Abernethy Pearl went on permanent display in the Restless Earth gallery at the National Museum of Scotland today (Thursday 18 September).
Rare Bronze Age hoard saved for the nation, and will go on show next summer
A Bronze Age hoard discovered in Carnoustie has been acquired by National Museums Scotland and will go on display for the first time in a new exhibition opening next summer.
The hoard includes a rare spearhead decorated with gold and a bronze sword in a wooden scabbard, dating from around 1120-920 BC. Scotland’s First Warriors (27 Jun 2026 – 17 May 2027) will bring together over 250 objects spanning thousands of years, to explore the origins and impact of conflict and warfare in prehistoric Scotland.
Latest news
Makers selected for contemporary craft exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland and Ulster Museum
New, contemporary craft works inspired by the collections of National Museums Scotland and National Museums NI will be displayed in a collaborative exhibition, opening at the National Museum of Scotland in summer 2027, then at the Ulster Museum, National Museums NI in early 2028.
Festive fun on the farm at the National Museum of Rural Life
Celebrate the season with festive fun for the whole family at the National Museum of Rural Life. The East Kilbride attraction will host Festive Weekend on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December, with support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery.
Prized treasure from the Galloway Hoard on show for the first time in Kirkcudbright
A unique rock crystal jar found as part of the Galloway Hoard has gone on public display for the first time. The Galloway Hoard: Rock Crystal Jar exhibition at Kirkcudbright Galleries, near where the Hoard was first discovered, will run until 14 June 2026.
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