New images showcase the stunning restoration of the world’s oldest purpose-built student union, set to reopen in March.
The Teviot is set to reopen in March 2026 after a two and a half year renovation.
The University's Teviot is set to reopen in March 2026, following a two-and-a-half-year refurbishment that honours the building’s heritage, while revitalising this 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.
Many of Teviot's familiar spaces have been carefully restored, including detail on the ceiling of the main staircase.
Essential updates
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.
Social spaces have been created including a bar and restaurant accessible from a new entrance on Charles Street Lane.
New beginnings
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.
Favourite student spaces like The Library Bar have been refreshed and restored.
Old favourites
A major focus of the renovation has been to preserve the atmosphere and architecture that generations of students and visitors 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.
Many of the building's stained-glass windows have been refurbished and restored by skilled artisans.
Looking ahead
Following the refurbishments, Teviot is once again set to provide a unique and modern setting for studying, socialising and event hire, in one of Edinburgh’s most versatile and atmospheric venues.
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.
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.
Professor Sir Peter Mathieson
Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Edinburgh
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!
