40 George Square, The University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh's 40 George Square building, often referred to as the Joseph Black Building or Hume Tower, is an iconic landmark in Edinburgh's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This academic hub is a key part of the University's central campus, offering a range of services and facilities to support its diverse student and academic community. This article provides a detailed overview of this notable institution, highlighting its main services, location and access, featured characteristics, practical information, and positive aspects mentioned in customer reviews.

• Academic Departments: The building houses several academic departments, including the School of Physics and Astronomy, the School of Philosophy, Psychology, and Language Sciences, and the School of Social and Political Science.
• Research Facilities: 40 George Square is home to various research groups and centers, such as the Institute for Astronomy, the Centre for Cognitive Science, and the Centre for Research on Families and Relationships.
• Teaching Spaces: The building contains numerous classrooms, lecture theaters, and tutorial rooms equipped with modern teaching aids to support interactive learning.
• Study Spaces: Students can find quiet study spaces, including individual and group study rooms, as well as a dedicated postgraduate study area.
• Library Services: The building houses a branch library with a collection focused on the subjects taught in the building, offering a range of resources and services to support research and learning.
• Catering and Retail: A café and a convenience store are located on-site, providing food and beverages as well as essential items for students and staff.

40 George Square is situated in Edinburgh's Old Town, just off the Royal Mile, and close to many of the city's historic attractions. Its central location offers easy access to public transportation, including buses and trams, with the nearest bus stops located on South Bridge and the Royal Mile. Waverley Train Station is approximately a 10-minute walk away. The building is also within walking distance of several public car parks, although on-street parking is limited and can be busy.

For those with mobility impairments, the building provides wheelchair-accessible entrances and a dedicated wheelchair-accessible car park. Elevators provide access to all floors, and accessible restrooms are available throughout the building.

• Architecture: Designed by Robert Matthew and Partners, the building was completed in 1967 and is a prominent example of brutalist architecture in Edinburgh. Its distinctive design features a central courtyard and a series of interconnected towers.
• Views: The building's location and design offer stunning views of Edinburgh's Old Town and the Firth of Forth. The higher floors provide panoramic views of the city's iconic skyline, including Edinburgh Castle and Arthur's Seat.
• Artwork: The building is home to various artworks, including a sculpture by the renowned Scottish artist, Eduardo Paolozzi, which is displayed in the central courtyard.
• Sustainability: The University has implemented various sustainability initiatives in the building, such as energy-efficient lighting, rainwater harvesting, and a green roof, contributing to the University's goal of becoming a net-zero carbon institution by 2040.

• Address: 40 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JX, United Kingdom
• Phone:1316501000
• Website:ed.ac.uk
• Opening Hours: The building's opening hours vary throughout the year and may be extended during exam periods. It is typically open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends.

Customer reviews of 40 George Square highlight several positive aspects of the building, including:

• Views: Many reviewers commend the building's stunning views, describing them as a welcome distraction from studying and a great way to appreciate Edinburgh's beauty.
• Study Spaces: Students praise the availability of quiet study spaces, individual and group study rooms, and the dedicated postgraduate study area, which they find conducive to productive work.
• Café and Convenience Store: Reviewers appreciate the on-site catering and retail options, noting that they are convenient and offer a range of food and beverage choices.
• Accessibility: Several reviewers mention the building's wheelchair-accessible features, highlighting the elevators, accessible restrooms, and dedicated wheelchair-accessible car park as positive aspects.

Despite the positive reviews, some users note that the building can be cold, particularly in higher floors, and that the name 'Hume Tower' is still widely recognized and used by many. The University of Edinburgh has not officially changed the name of the building, although it is currently referred to as the Joseph Black Building.