Abden House was built in 1855 for Thomas Nelson, founder of the Scottish publishers of the same name, and designed by civil engineer Thomas Davies. Today it’s the property of the University of Edinburgh, gift by Sir Donald Pollock.
Built with three storeys in the Jacobean revivalist style of the 19th century, Abden faces a carriage circle with gates at the end of Marchhall Crescent. It has an irregular plan with single story wings on the North and South sides.
The Confucius Institute for Scotland team is delighted to participate in the Doors Open Day 2024 programme. This Sunday, 29 September, from 10 am to 3 pm, the team will be ready to welcome you to Abden House, where you can participate in various workshops, from language taster sessions, calligraphy, and Chinese craft to Chinese dance and Taichi. The Doors Open Day is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Abden House, learn some basic Chinese language, and enjoy several cultural activities. You can also simply meet up with friends old and new over a cup of tea and some Chinese snacks.