Museums, galleries reopen after long lockdown

Cultural institutions in Glasgow and Edinburgh reopen their doors to visitors this morning.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow’s West End has implemented significant changes after being closed for months due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Visitors have to pre-book timeslots and are being advised to wear face coverings inside the building.

One way routes are in place and people are asked to keep their visit to a maximum of two hours.

Proposed dates for the reopening of several of Glasgow Life’s other sports and arts venues throughout August and early September are having to be revised following the Scottish Government’s announcement that these venues must remain closed until at least September 14.

Councillor David McDonald, Chair of Glasgow Life and Depute Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “The phased reopening of Glasgow Life’s venues and facilities has always been on the basis of the Scottish Government’s guidance and route-map timescale allowing us to do so.

“The opening of some of our libraries and museums is an important milestone for Glasgow Life and for the city.

“As restrictions gradually ease, it marks another step towards life after Covid-19, even though the way people will experience these venues will be different for the foreseeable future.”

The Scottish National Gallery in Edinburgh also reopens its doors to the public today.

Admission remains free, but tickets must be booked online in advance.

The Modern One building at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art reopens next week, on August 24.

Sir John Leighton, Director-General of the National Galleries of Scotland, said: “It’s been a challenging time for all, but our reopening offers the public the opportunity to reconnect with the national collection and to view their favourite works in a more intimate setting.”