The Usher Hall (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is The Usher Hall?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: Solo guests enjoy choice of classical, pop or comedy nights, safe staffed foyers, bars and lifts; superb sound rewards focused listening, though long seated sets demand personal stamina and planning.
Positives:
- Excellent acoustics: The hall’s design ensures clear sound from every seat
- Central location: Steps from Princes Street with tram and bus links nearby
- Safe solo atmosphere: Staff and security are attentive and welcoming to solo visitors
Challenges:
- Fast sell-outs: Popular shows and Festival events can sell out weeks in advance
- No luggage storage: No cloakroom for large bags; carry only small personal items
- Busy intervals: Bar queues form quickly at intermission if you haven’t pre-ordered
What is The Usher Hall?
- A purpose-built concert hall in central Edinburgh, inaugurated in 1914 through Andrew Usher’s philanthropic endowment
- Features an Edwardian neoclassical façade, grand foyer with marble floors and sweeping staircases
- Holds a Category A listing for its architectural and historic significance and accommodates approximately 2,200 seats
What is so special about The Usher Hall for solo trip?
- Wide range of concerts and performances solo travelers enjoy
- Relaxed beanbag shows during Edinburgh’s Festival season
- Free access to stunning Edwardian architecture before performances
- Nearby small-group walking tours add local history context
- Friendly, well-staffed venue ideal for solo visitors
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to catch a show, explore the foyer, and join a brief walking tour
Solo-Friendly Activities in The Usher Hall
Book a concert ticket:
Choose from classical, jazz, comedy or pop nights
Tip: Buy online early for best seats in the Stalls or Grand Circle; sign up for ticket alerts
Try a Beanbag Concert:
Enjoy a casual, immersive show on a colorful beanbag during August Festival
Tip: Arrive 20 minutes before start to pick a front beanbag; pre-order a grazing box online
Explore the Edwardian foyer:
Wander the grand foyer, marble floors and sweeping staircases
Tip: Visit before your show on weekdays between 10 am–5:30 pm; no entry fee
Join a walking tour:
Take a 3-hour small-group History, Culture & Architecture tour
Tip: Meet outside Usher Hall; book ahead for £25; brings stories of Andrew Usher and Old Town landmarks
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Usher Hall
- Book early: Sign up for the Usher Hall newsletter and note on-sale dates
- Pre-order drinks: Use the online service to collect interval drinks without waiting
- Arrive ahead: Get in 30 minutes early to pick your preferred seat and explore foyer
Reviews of The Usher Hall
HappyCanadianTourist
Beautiful venue for a show... comfy seats, great acoustics and easy access to seating. We saw a Comedian Ross last week. Great time and easy exit as well
Paul Aitken
The show we saw (Ghostbusters in concert) was absolutely amazing! As were the staff. However, the seats were so uncomfortable, I found myself longing for the interval just so I could get off the chair! The people either side of us felt exactly the same unfortunately so it seems as though it's not an isolated issue. I will say, however, that the amount of legroom is commendable for a theatre. If ...
Bartosz Alichper
Beautiful building full of heritage and history. Great acoustics. Very good facilities. Approachable ticket prices
David Shemilt
Stunning Victorian hall! Been here to see a few bands and the venue is part of the experience!! Seats are Victorian style but comfy enough but the venue is fantastic and has a more modern bar area so you can get served!! Highly recommend this city centre venue and you need to check out the spiral staircase to the loos!!
Lena
The place hosts brilliant concerts, and it's a great place for university graduation ceremony. The seats could be comfier, but I think that's standard to feel like one's back is broken at the end of the night!
When is the best time to visit The Usher Hall (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
In August, look out for extra Festival shows and special beanbag concerts. Midweek events tend to be quieter.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Concert ticket | GBP 30 |
| Interval drink | GBP 5 |
| Walking tour | GBP 25 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 60 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of The Usher Hall
Address: Lothian Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2EA, UK
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