The World of King James VI & I
Exhibitions
Painting
Visual art

The World of King James VI & I

National Galleries of Scotland • Professional company

Google National Galleries of Scotland
60 minutes•Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Marking the 400-year anniversary of King James’s death, this exhibition charts his remarkable reign through stories of power, plot and majesty. Son of Mary, Queen of Scots and successor to Elizabeth I, King James (1566–1625) was the first monarch to rule over Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales. Drawing on themes with contemporary relevance including national identity, queer history and spirituality, this is an enriching journey through the complex life of a king who changed the shape of the United Kingdom.

About National Galleries of Scotland

The World of King James VI & I is an exhibition at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, presented by the National Galleries of Scotland, marking the four hundredth anniversary of King James's death. The exhibition charts his remarkable reign through stories of power, plot and majesty. Son of Mary, Queen of Scots and successor to Elizabeth I, King James was the first monarch to rule over Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales. The exhibition draws on themes including national identity, queer history and spirituality for an enriching journey through the complex life of a king who changed the shape of the United Kingdom.

Why see this show?

A timely exhibition marking the four hundredth anniversary of a king who reshaped Britain — at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, this exploration of power, queer history and national identity feels as relevant now as it did in his own time.

Tickets

£9 (4)

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When

Monday 28 July - Monday 25 August 2025

Weekdays at 10:00 & 10:15 & 10:30 & 10:45 & 11:00 & 11:15 & 11:30 & 11:45 & 12:00 & 12:15 & 12:30 & 12:45 & 13:00 & 13:15 & 13:30 & 13:45 & 14:00 & 14:15 & 14:30 & 14:45 & 15:00 & 15:15 & 15:30 & 15:45 & 16:00, Weekends at 10:00 & 10:15 & 10:30 & 10:45 & 11:00 & 11:15 & 11:30 & 11:45 & 12:00 & 12:15 & 12:30 & 12:45 & 13:00 & 13:15 & 13:30 & 13:45 & 14:00 & 14:15 & 14:30 & 14:45 & 15:00 & 15:15 & 15:30 & 15:45 & 16:00

725 performances

Duration

60 mins

Cast

1 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025

Venue
Scottish National Portrait Gallery

1 Queen Street

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a visit take?

The recommended visit duration is 60 minutes.

What is the ticket price?

Tickets are £9.

What age is this suitable for?

The exhibition is suitable for ages 5 and over.

Where is the exhibition?

The exhibition is at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What should I expect during the visit?

Visitors will be standing throughout and required to walk or move around during the exhibition.

What themes does the exhibition cover?

The exhibition explores power, plot, majesty, national identity, queer history and spirituality through the life and reign of King James.

About This Performance

The World of King James VI & I is a exhibitions performance at Scottish National Portrait Gallery during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 60 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Experience the magic of live performance at Edinburgh Festival. Each show offers something unique and memorable.

Venue: Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Scottish National Portrait Gallery is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • •Read recent reviews for audience reactions
  • •Check venue accessibility if needed
  • •Allow time to find unfamiliar venues
  • •Download venue apps for digital tickets

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £9

Age Guidance: 5+

Content Warnings: Audience will be standing throughout, Audience required to walk or move around during the performance

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2025

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.The World of King James VI & I represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API