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Usher Hall
Usher Hall
Lothian Road
The Usher Hall will be open for Festival 08 and will operate as a functioning concert hall for the duration of the Festival. Although the venue is currently undergoing an extensive redevelopment project, due to finish in Spring 2009, from the start to the finish of Festival 08 building work will cease and the venue will re-open. Although all efforts have been made to minimize any inconvenience to customers, there will be some alterations to the normal running of the theatre.
The auditorium itself has not been worked on so customers can expect the same high standard of acoustics enjoyed in previous years however changes to the public and front of house areas will be noticeable to regular Festival goers. Some public areas will be closed off so foyer space will be more restricted than in previous years. There will be hoardings around the hall and fewer public congregational areas outside.
Extensive work is also being undertaken in the venue toilets so high quality temporary toilet accommodation has been installed just outside the main doors with awnings offering a sheltered route to and from the toilets. The Grand and Upper Circle sections will have toilets inside the building on the Cambridge Street side only.
There will be refreshment bars serving a wide range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks on each floor.
Once the redevelopment work is complete the Usher Hall will boast improved access, upgraded facilities and more space. There will be an impressive new glass wing, a new box office, a new café and improved back stage facilities for the artists. Access will also be greatly enhanced with the installation of lifts and stairs that connect each level.
Orientation
Entrance to the Usher Hall will be from the Cambridge Street side only. The contractor's site will occupy the front area running along Lothian Road and Grindlay Street. There will be a pavement route from Grindlay Street around to Lothian Road and Cambridge Street but please note the walk will be longer than usual.
Parking
There will be restricted access to Cambridge Street which will only be open for residents and disabled drop off and there will be no through access from Cambridge to Grindlay Street. We advise that you allow a bit of extra time in case of any problems. The NCP car park on Castle Terrace is the best place to park at this time, and is about a five minute walk from the Usher Hall. Please be aware that Edinburgh is always busy during the Festival period.
Travelling By Other Transport
Bus: Bus numbers 1, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 24, 34 all stop outside the hall. Call 0131 555 6363 or visit www.lothianbuses.com for timetables.
Train: The Usher Hall is close to both Haymarket and Waverly train stations (approx. 15 minute walk to either). Visit www.firstgroup.com/scotrail for more details.
Taxi: A taxi rank is situated by The Sheraton hotel opposite the Hall on Lothian Road.
Other Access Information
- Ten wheelchair spaces with companion seats in the stalls.
- Level access to ground floor. Help available.
- A unisex adapted toilet is available on the stalls level.
- Guide dogs and hearing dogs welcome.
- Staff available to assist.
Disabled Entrance
Access is via the Box Office main entrance by a ramp. You can be dropped off if coming in a taxi by the entrance on Cambridge Street.
Disabled Parking
Spaces for blue badge holders are still available on Grindlay Street (accessible via Cornwall St.).
If you need any further advice please visit www.usherhall.co.uk or call the Usher Hall directly on 0131 221 3380.
