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Dovecot Studios

27 September 2026 (10:00 - 17:00)

Edinburgh

In Person

2026 Theme

Dovecot is housed in the former Infirmary Street Baths which were the first public baths in Edinburgh, built in 1885 by Robert Morham. Facing possible demolition, The Dovecot Foundation funded the restoration of the building with the opening in 2008. The Ladies Baths is used as an event space, while the tapestry studio occupies the former swimming pool.

Alongside the tapestry studio, Dovecot run an exciting programme of exhibitions and events to further explore contemporary art, craft, and design.

Dovecot is a world-renowned tapestry studio in the heart of Edinburgh and a landmark centre for contemporary art, craft and design. Established in 1912, Dovecot continues a century-long heritage of collaboration with international artists to make exceptional handwoven tapestries and gun-tufted rugs.

For Doors Open Days get a unique glimpse into the heart of Dovecot Studios from our Tapestry Studio Viewing Balcony. Watch as our talented team of weavers bring contemporary designs to life. As the longest-running tapestry studio in the UK, Dovecot continues a legacy of craftsmanship using techniques passed down through generations.

Tapestry weaving is no longer taught in UK further or higher education, so our apprenticeship programme passes on skills and knowledge from Master Weavers, tracing a lineage back to the Studio’s founding weavers in 1912. As the UK’s oldest tapestry studio, Dovecot is keeping this living tradition alive while reimagining it through contemporary artists and new generations of weavers.

Photographs by Mike Wilkinson, Phil Wilkinson & Shannon Tofts.