Friday January 30th 2026
The Teviot is set to reopen in March 2026 after a two-and-a-half year renovation (photo by Andrew Perry).
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
After a two-and-a-half year refurbishment that saw a historic university union on Bristo Square closed, Edinburgh University’s Teviot is set to reopen this March in a development that ‘honours the building’s heritage whilst revitalising the vibrant hub’.
First opened in 1889, the building was designed by architects Sydney Mitchell and Ralph Scott and, in what is widely thought to be a global first, created specifically as a social hub for students.
In the 136 years since, Teviot has remained an iconic feature of student life and established itself as a year-round events host and a favourite venue for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Managed by Edinburgh University Students’ Association in collaboration with architects Page\Park, with funding from the University to invest in and improve the building, project work began in September 2023.
The renovation has provided essential updates to the building’s existing facilities while preserving its unique character to create a vibrant, versatile space offering the best experience for today’s students.
Extensive upgrades have improved accessibility and increased energy efficiency, while modernising amenities including toilet provision.
In addition, several interior spaces have been reimagined to create new areas, including a student community lounge, group workspaces and a gallery studio.
A new bar and restaurant space created from the former Sports and Underground bars has transformed the rear of the building and is directly accessible from a new entrance on Charles Street Lane.
Retaining period features alongside contemporary details, this large and flexible space will offer a daily food and drink service, while hosting entertainment and major sporting events year-round.
Social spaces have been created including a bar and restaurant accessible from a new entrance on Charles Street Lane (photo by Andrew Perry).
The University explained that a major focus of the renovation was to preserve the atmosphere and architecture that ‘generations of students have loved’.
Favourite spaces, including the Library Bar and Debating Hall, remain reassuringly familiar, with subtle renovations enhancing interiors and restoring heritage features where needed.
The Students’ Association has worked closely with independent businesses, skilled craftspeople and apprentices across Scotland to restore original features, supporting local craftsmanship and creating valuable training opportunities for young people entering the heritage and construction sectors.
Following the refurbishments, Teviot is once again set to provide a unique and modern setting for studying, socialising and event hire.
When the building reopens this spring, students, staff and visitors will be invited to rediscover Teviot through a series of launch events.
Looking ahead to August 2026, the Students’ Association will welcome Gilded Balloon to Teviot for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, marking the return of one of the city’s most iconic performance partnerships to its home venue.
Principal and Vice-Chancellor at the University of Edinburgh, Professor Sir Peter Mathieson, explained:
“At the University of Edinburgh, we are proud to continue to invest in improving the experience of our students. Teviot has stood at the heart of student life in Edinburgh for generations and this restoration will ensure it remains so for many years to come. This thoughtful renewal honours the building’s heritage, while revitalising the space as a vibrant and welcoming home for our community. We look forward to seeing the building reopen for students and the public to enjoy once more.”
Students’ Association President, Ash Scholz, added:
“Teviot has always been at the heart of student life in Edinburgh, and its reopening marks an incredibly exciting new chapter for us.
“We’re proud to have created a space that truly reflects today’s students while honouring Teviot’s historic character in the city. It’s inclusive, welcoming, and community-oriented, and we’re excited for everyone to enjoy it!”
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