Usher Hall, Edinburgh: Hours, Address, Usher Hall Reviews: 4/5
Usher Hall
Usher Hall
4
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
About
Unique concert hall in the heart of Edinburgh. Music, comedy, award ceremonies, hospitality and more. Celebrating 100 years in 2014
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Old Town
Few Edinburghers live in the Old Town, but its labyrinth of dank alleys and steep streets suggests this was not always the case. Today, it’s mostly visitors, tartan-flavored souvenir shops, and pipers that you’ll find on its cobbled streets. This is the place to get a feel for Auld Reekie (Old Smelly), as the town was once nicknamed, and stroll the Royal Mile, the thoroughfare that links the castle with the royal palace – two of Edinburgh’s great set-piece attractions. But there’s lots more exploring to do here down dozens of little alleys, or wynds, while at night the city’s busiest clubs erupt along the Cowgate which is closed to traffic for this purpose.
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Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
384 reviews
Excellent
183
Very good
122
Average
41
Poor
12
Terrible
26
Leanne A
Sunderland, UK267 contributions
Couples
Wow 🤩 what a beautiful building this is . We attended the Kaiser chiefs gig with support from Razorlight only reason we bought tickets was to see the support , but I must say the whole performance of both bands blew us away . Sound lighting was really awesome and one of the best small indoor venues for bands we’ve attended in a long time. Drinks were reasonably priced only complaint was they ran out of cider earlier on in the evening in all bars 🤷♀️. Lovely friendly staff looking to book a show here in December when we visit Edinburgh again as we were very impressed we loved it 😍😍
Written January 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
graham B
1 contribution
On a gig night to wait 45 minutes for a drink at the bar, even taking into account Covid is rubbish. Everyone had to show covid pass which is fine, but once inside very few people wearing masks and no enforcement. Good acoustics in the venue for a gig though.
Written December 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bordersgeezer
Hawick, UK2,933 contributions
Friends
I went with a friend to see this band and have always enjoyed the smaller venue such as the Usher Hall compared to paying massive prices at arena type halls and can’t even see the band. Entrance to the Usher Hall couldn’t be easier and staff were helpful. We had a 2nd row seat so a fabulous view of the band. Seats however are pretty outdated and a refurb is required. The guy sitting next to me was getting right into his music and was rocking back and forth and therefore so did the entire Row B! Restrooms were quite a walk from our seat however they were kept in very good order. Two drinks at the bar were £10 for the two which was expected. A member of the audience became a bit over enthusiastic and was eventually ejected. Audience participation is nice to see however it shouldn’t be at the detriment and annoyance to the rest of those attending. From what I saw, this gent didn’t appear to be doing much wrong, however I wasn’t close enough to see and he may have been worse for wear, so can appreciate if the staff actions were indeed appropriate. As far as this experienced band was concerned, really good musicians and vocals but you really have to be a die hard Genesis fan favouring their very early music from their inception to enjoy them
Written February 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Sarah H
7 contributions
Family
Erasure 6th October
Travelled from Leeds for this event.
Covid passport required for double vaccination no problem for me to provide but no one was scanning the QR codes, just waved in. Could have provided a drawn picture and would have been let in,
Only one bar which had no draught lager £5 for a can of lager. Big queues for bar.
Over sold, venue was packed out to point people were stood in doorway with the door open to see.
Toilets a minefield !
Perhaps this venue should stick to smaller artists to accommodate.
Only good point was when I asked a steward Robert for help he was great.
Travelled from Leeds for this event.
Covid passport required for double vaccination no problem for me to provide but no one was scanning the QR codes, just waved in. Could have provided a drawn picture and would have been let in,
Only one bar which had no draught lager £5 for a can of lager. Big queues for bar.
Over sold, venue was packed out to point people were stood in doorway with the door open to see.
Toilets a minefield !
Perhaps this venue should stick to smaller artists to accommodate.
Only good point was when I asked a steward Robert for help he was great.
Written October 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
stuart1122018
Edinburgh, UK17 contributions
Couples
Went to see James Morrison was really looking forward to this but was a major let down due to the venue. Bar prices were extortionate. No area for standing was all seated. People seated near us were asked to leave for dancing! Was ridiculous won’t ever be back to a concert at the Usher Hall would not recommend.
Written April 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Adrian
Carlisle, UK122 contributions
Couples
Gorgeous, beautiful, historic theatre. It's a real privilege just to view a show at this theatre. We saw a muppet christmas carol with a live orchestra here recently and it's just a wonderful old theatre. The decor is tasteful and subtle in places but also grand and very deserving of such a wonderful venue.
Written December 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Gauldie2015
Dundee, UK2,497 contributions
Couples
Fantastic evening in this lovely venue.
Entry was quick and very organised and we had Razorlight as support who were very good and really got our evening off to a good start.
Main event was the usual outstanding gig by the Kaisers.
Really enjoyed our evening, Usher Hall let's you get up and personal with the bands and the sound and atmosphere was brilliant
Entry was quick and very organised and we had Razorlight as support who were very good and really got our evening off to a good start.
Main event was the usual outstanding gig by the Kaisers.
Really enjoyed our evening, Usher Hall let's you get up and personal with the bands and the sound and atmosphere was brilliant
Written February 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kaela21
7 contributions
Family
The atmosphere was amazing. I loved the building, it was old and had character. However, I didn't feel safe due to the way the seating is. Perfect for universities etc but not for a concert, were the spectators are drinking. The seats were so close to each other it was difficult to move and you could not help but touch the stranger next to you. This affected me as I need personal space. The rows are also so close to each other that your legs had to remain straight, there is no room to maneuver at all. The next thing is there is such a small space to stand when (as it often does) to let people get past to go to toilet or bar. There is nothing to grab onto when you are facing forwards, the row in front of you is to low down, so, if you are clumsy like me, or drunk, thankfully i never drank, if you lose your footing, there is absolutely nothing to save you. So this beautiful venue is not for someone who cannot sit in the same position for a long period of time, has anxiety etc. Someone told me that someone has actually fell 🙉
So the seating spoiled it for me, but aside from that I loved it. I loved my experience there, there were plenty of bars, and staff were friendly.
So the seating spoiled it for me, but aside from that I loved it. I loved my experience there, there were plenty of bars, and staff were friendly.
Written November 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Iain A
Kirkcaldy, UK532 contributions
Our first visit in a very long time, we saw Ronnie Spector and the Ronettes Just before Christmas. A great show with great seating in the circle allowed us great views of the stage. The sound system allowed us to hear every song clearly.
The tickets were bought the Box Office via telephone. The process was easy and flawless, our tickets being delivered within two days of placing our order. Just the way it should be.
A great place to watch a show only five minutes walk from the West End of Princes Street.
The tickets were bought the Box Office via telephone. The process was easy and flawless, our tickets being delivered within two days of placing our order. Just the way it should be.
A great place to watch a show only five minutes walk from the West End of Princes Street.
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Sam
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK13 contributions
Took boyfriend to see Bianca Del Rio for his birthday in May 2022, beautiful venue with lots of space and easily accessible bar and toilets. Entry was quick and easy, security staff very attentive. The ushers and staff were very polite and helpful and were happy to suggest places for food nearby afterwards - would visit for an event again!
Written June 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Gordon Black
Glasgow, UK43 contributions
Is alcohol permitted in the arena when standing, I have tickets for Paul Weller in November .
Gordon Black
Glasgow, UK43 contributions
Hi I have standing tickets booked for the paul weller gig on 16th November, is alcohol permitted in the arena.
darren p
Boston, UK8 contributions
Hi, my wife and I are attending the classical concert at the usher hall on Saturday 28th December, we have never been to this venue, not sure what dress code would be suitable? We like to dress up whenever possible, but don't want to stand out like a sore thumb, does anyone know if tux and bow tie are commonly worn? Thanks
KevinP1314
Monifieth, UK1,926 contributions
Hi Darren,
A tux and bow tie although very smart in its own right is not necessary however it is entirely up to you at the end of the day how you wish to present yourself.
In my opinion you can present yourself in a smart casual manner then following your event you may wish to try the Rat Pack club or the Ghillie Dhu for a traditional Scottish club atmosphere both these clubs are beside one another.
Enjoy Edinburgh
JamieandSuzanne
Wirral804 contributions
Hi good evening planning on attending Jack savoretti concert, however, only limited standi g tickets available, where is this area loacted, any info greatly appreciated.
Cheers
Jamie
ajm549
Aberdeen, UK215 contributions
Differs for each concert. I would expect them to be in the front of the stalls area, under the stage. Viewing should be good.
claire136
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK2 contributions
Has anyone used the accessible seats in the grand circle of Usher Hall? if so what is the view like? are the easy to get to? near toilets ect?
ajm549
Aberdeen, UK215 contributions
Website indicates, "There are 10 wheelchair spaces, each with one adjacent companion seat. These are located in Row Q. They give an excellent view for the majority of our concerts. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the standard of view for seated rock/pop concerts, where the audience chooses to stand."
serbitar
Manchester, UK186 contributions
We have tickets for kelly Jones - upper circle row e - 15/16 both tall and well built - are we in for an uncomfortable evening ?
ROB2LOR
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK100 contributions
Sorry but as we were sitting in stalls on ground floor I’m not sure about where you are but our seats were comfortable and had a decent amount of leg room. I am 6 foot tall so appreciate the need for space for my legs
Louise C
West Lothian, UK7 contributions
Is there a cloakroom for leaving jackets? Attending colours classical this weekend and will fancy a dance. Thanks
MarkAB51
Oldmeldrum, UK147 contributions
As far as I am aware there are cloakroom facilities, but I think these are dependant on what is on, best phone and check with the venue
Was looking to book a show. Which seats are there without stairs and are easy accessed? My mum has restricted Mobility. Thanks
MrsV
Washington, UK178 contributions
They have a lift I walk with sticks and was on the 1st tier staff were fantastic helping too holding doors open
Margaret E
Livingston, UK76 contributions
Hi I'm coming to the script tomorrow night and would like to be at the front what time should I be there to queue
Frequently Asked Questions about Usher Hall
- Usher Hall is open:
- Mon - Sat 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- We recommend booking Usher Hall tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 3 Usher Hall tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Usher Hall:
- (0.02 mi) Edinburgh Festival Square - 3 bed - City Centre
- (0.04 mi) Delightful Old Town Apartment 5 minutes walk from Royal Mile & Edinburgh Castle
- (0.07 mi) Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh
- (0.05 mi) 2 Cambridge Street
- (0.08 mi) Castle View Apartment * The Old Town
- Restaurants near Usher Hall:
- (0.02 mi) Shakespeare
- (0.02 mi) Traverse Bar Cafe
- (0.03 mi) Nando's
- (0.03 mi) Frites
- (0.03 mi) Wetherspoons