Jupiter Artland and Café Party

No visit to a capital city is complete without some culture to intrigue and inspire, but not many cities can offer up some of the most ground-breaking contemporary art set across 100 acres of meadow and woodland.

Absorb the joy of art and nature in symphony at award-winning sculpture garden Jupiter Artland, just five miles west of Edinburgh. Home to over 30 permanent and unique site-specific sculptures, in addition to a seasonal programme of thoughtfully curated exhibitions and events, Jupiter Artland has evolved into one of Scotland’s most acclaimed arts organisations. Promoting self-discovery and exploration, it’s encouraged that visitors roam the park without a set route – as you explore the stunning grounds of the old Jacobean manor house in which the experience is set, you uncover a sensorily varied array of artistic expression. Hear miniature Japanese bells ringing in ‘Anamatis’ by Christian Boltanski, conducted in an arrangement that replicates a map of stars in the galaxy, look up in awe at Mark Quinn’s ‘Love Bomb’, an orchid sculpture reaching 12 meters, intended to emulate the paradoxical beauty and darkness of human desire – the collection is moving in its diversity.

The sensorial delight does not end with the art collection though, round off your visit with some food at Café Party, the Artland’s popular bistro renowned for its indulgent seasonal menu to be enjoyed within the wrappings of the psychedelically immersive mural that adorns the walls.

From a champagne afternoon tea to a more formal wine-and-dine lunch menu, Café Party synchronises good food and good art to create a memorable culinary experience. Open Wednesday – Sunday from 10-5 throughout summer and just a short bus journey from the Townhouse, this enchanting experience is an immersive, memorable way to discover some of the most thought-provoking global artwork.