Maths at National Museums Scotland

Have fun with maths across the National Museums Scotland sites with trails, videos and activities for home or the classroom.

Activities Preview NMS Maths Trail

National Museums Scotland has collections spanning art, science and history. Discover maths in the collections, the buildings and even the work of the staff!

Maths Trail at National Museums of Scotland

Explore the National Museum of Scotland through maths themed activities and challenges. Download and print the trail to do on the day, whilst our teachers notes have some helpful hints and classroom activities to complement.

Castle Quest at Edinburgh Castle

Head up to Edinburgh Castle and explore the history through a maths lens. Why do we measure horses in hands? Why are battlements round? Download and print the trail to do on the day, whilst our teachers notes have some helpful hints and classroom activities to complement.

#ShowYourWorking at National Museums Scotland

Staff across National Museums Scotland are sharing how important maths is in their work as part of Maths Week Scotlands #ShowYourWorking campaign. Why not have a go at some of the activities!

Let us know how you get on @NMSEngage and @MathsWeekScot on Twitter.

Dan shares with us how he uses calculations to figure out the cost of objects
It's not just curators using maths! Our learning staff also rely on maths to keep our sessions running, here Helyn shares how.

Latest News and Events

News

Goireasan Gàidhlig na Twinkl 2025

Seo iad goireasan Gàidhlig ann aig gach ìre, a tháirgtear ag Twinkl Scotland do Seachdain Matamataig na h’Alba 2025.

News

How to Create a Family Maths Trail

Download our free guide and templates, to help you create an easy family maths trail at your own venue.

13th Dec
Event

Maths Play Club with Number Berries

Oxgangs Library, Edinburgh | | Free
Number Berries is excited to welcome all young mathematicians (ages 5–12) back to Maths Play Club. Every 2nd Saturday of the month from September to December 2025.