Lyon and Turnbull have been selling the goods and chattels of Edinburgh’s residents since 1826. There are normally a couple of auctions each month during the summer, fewer in the winter.
The auctions cover a diverse range of interests from general antique furniture to specialised auctions of silver or art. There are also occasional modern design auctions too. Auctions are normally on a Wednesday. The auction rooms are open from the Sunday before the auction for viewing by anyone who is interested.
It is a great, and free, way to spend a hour or so whether you are a serious collector, a dreamer like me, or enjoy people watching. The big excitement is to attend the actual auction, where you call follow the fortunes of your favourite pieces, or even bid for them. You need to register before the start of the sale to bid, so there is no risk of accidentally going home with an antique stuffed elephant if you scratch your nose.