If you’re looking for an auction house that blends tradition with modern expertise, Lyon & Turnbull Edinburgh is a name you’ll want to remember. Founded in 1826, it’s Scotland’s oldest auction house and a key player in the UK’s fine art and antiques market. But this isn’t just a place for dusty relics—it’s a thriving hub where collectors, dealers, and first-time buyers discover everything from rare Scottish paintings to luxury watches.
Why Lyon & Turnbull Stands Out
A Legacy of Trust
Unlike flashy, corporate auction houses, Lyon & Turnbull has built its reputation on deep expertise and personal service. Their specialists handle everything from 19th-century furniture to contemporary art, ensuring each piece gets the attention it deserves.
The Edinburgh saleroom at 33 Broughton Place is often called the “most beautiful auction room in Britain,” housed in a stunning neoclassical building restored to its former glory.
Auctions That Cater to All Tastes
Whether you’re into jewellery, Asian art, or Scottish paintings, Lyon & Turnbull’s auction calendar has something for you. Upcoming sales include:
Watches (June 3, 2025)
Scottish Paintings & Sculpture (June 5, 2025)
Books and Manuscripts (June 18, 2025)
They also specialize in single-owner collections, turning personal treasures into headline-grabbing sales, like the £4 million Drambuie Art Collection auction.
Easy Access for Buyers & Sellers
Opening hours are straightforward: Monday to Friday, 9 AM–5 PM, with viewings available before auctions. No appointment? No problem—walk-ins are welcome.
Selling is just as simple. You can get a free valuation by email, phone, or in person. If you’ve inherited an antique or stumbled upon a rare find, their team will tell you exactly what it’s worth.
Who Should Visit?
Collectors hunting for unique pieces with provenance.
First-time buyers wanting a trusted introduction to auctions.
Sellers are looking for fair prices and global exposure (their online bidding platform reaches international buyers).
A Day in the Life at Lyon & Turnbull Edinburgh
8:30 AM – The Saleroom Awakens
The day begins at 33 Broughton Place, where specialists arrive to inspect new consignments. A 19th-century Scottish landscape painting leans against a wall, fresh from an estate in the Highlands. “Provenance is everything,” says James, a senior art specialist, as he checks the back for labels or signatures. Meanwhile, the jewelry team tests a Victorian brooch under magnification, noting hallmarks and gemstone quality. The atmosphere is methodical—no detail is too small when valuing items for upcoming auctions 3.
10:00 AM – Valuations & Client Meetings
The front desk buzzes with walk-ins: a couple inheriting a silver tea set, a dealer with a collection of rare books. Free valuations are a cornerstone of Lyon & Turnbull’s service, distinguishing it from London’s more transactional houses like Sotheby’s or Christie’s. “We’re approachable,” says Fiona, head of client relations. “People here want stories, not just sales.” In the library, a specialist compares a first-edition Robert Burns poem to recent sales data, advising a seller on reserve prices.
12:30 PM – The Viewing Begins
Before the Watches auction (June 3), collectors pore over lots in the neoclassical saleroom. A Patek Philippe draws a crowd, its caseback open to reveal the movement. “London houses might rush viewings, but we encourage hands-on time,” notes the horology lead. Downstairs, a curator from the National Museums Scotland examines a Celtic brooch—proof of Lyon & Turnbull’s pull with institutional buyers.
2:00 PM – Digital Hustle
While London rivals lean on global online platforms, Lyon & Turnbull’s digital team films a TikTok walkthrough of the Scottish Paintings auction (June 5). “We blend tradition with tech,” says Mark, digital strategist. Their hybrid auctions see 40% of bids from online buyers, but the focus remains on local collectors. Compare this to Bonhams’ London operations, where high-profile international lots dominate.
4:30 PM – The Hammer Falls
The Books and Manuscripts auction closes with a 1787 Edinburgh-printed Bible fetching double its estimate. “London might have bigger names, but we know Scottish buyers,” says the head of rare books. As staff pack sold items, the wine specialist preps for next week’s tasting event—a nod to the house’s social ethos, unlike the corporate vibe of Phillips’ London sales.
Key Differences from London Rivals
Accessibility: Walk-in valuations and longer viewing hours cater to regional clients, whereas London houses often require appointments.
Specialization: Deep expertise in Scottish art/history vs. London’s global focus.
Atmosphere: Intimate, story-driven auctions contrast with London’s high-stakes spectacle.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
Check the viewing schedule—inspecting items in person beats online photos.
Ask for condition reports if buying remotely.
Follow their social media for last-minute lots and behind-the-scenes previews.
Final Thought
Lyon & Turnbull isn’t just an auction house—it’s a gateway to Scotland’s art and antiques scene. Whether you’re bidding on a Victorian brooch or selling a modernist masterpiece, their blend of heritage and hustle makes every sale an event worth watching.
