Mull of Galloway Lighthouse and Exhibition
The Lighthouse, built by Robert Stevenson, took two years to build; work commenced in 1828 and the Lighthouse was first lit on 26th March 1830. The tower stands 26 metres high and the light is 99 metres above sea level. On a clear night, the light can be seen 20 nautical miles (23 land miles) away with a flashing white light every 20 seconds. Until 1971, the lens was a combination of shining brass and sparkling crystal revolving on beautifully made rollers. Paraffin for the lamps and lighthouse keepers’ cottages, came via ships, deposited at East Tarbet and stored in a stone building. These ships were also used to move lighthouse keepers around the coastline from post to post. In 1971, the Lighthouse was converted to electricity and began to use a sealed-beam light, mounted on a gearless revolving pedestal. In early 2019 the Northern Lighthouse Board undertook a complete refurbishment and replaced the old light with a two-tier light of a total of 180,000 candelas. The 2 lights together make an 18 nautical mile range which is a reduction of 10 nautical miles. The Lighthouse became automatic in 1988 and is now remotely monitored from the Northern Lighthouse Board’s headquarters in Edinburgh. The Lighthouse is open to the public in July, august, bank holidays and school holidays.
The archaeologists at Newbarns have been working since 2002 on a multi-period site, starting with Neolithic burials and ending with Medieval features. Find out what happened in prehistoric times when a person died. Where did they go? A chance to explore a fascinating place inhabited through the Iron Age and on into Medieval times. As a Scottish Archaeology Month and DOD highlight, Alastair Penman of the Stewartry Archaeological Trust will offer tours of the site at 11am and 2.30pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Take this opportunity to try your hand as an archaeologist (tools will be available), view the artefacts the digs have uncovered and hear about the Trust’s investigations and theories. Please wear stout footwear and midge cream!
Back in 1916 "energetic townsman" George Couldson brough the movies to Newton Stewart in the silent days of magic lantern shows and tinkling pianos. It must have gone down well, for in 1933 the Galloway Gazette advertised the grand opening of the "handsome new picture house" complete with seating for 490 people and "commodious cloakrooom accommodation for ladies and gentlemen". To complete the effect Mr. Gouldson puchased three white marble statues (including a six foot Nubian Slave by Rosetti) from a sale at Cally Mansion House in Gatehouse and placed them in the cinema entrance hall. The art deco cinema's fortunes rose and fell with those of the film industry in the second half of the 20th century. The cinema closed in 1968, was rescued from developers and re-opened, only to close again in 1991. But Newton Stewart had not finished it's love affair with the silver screen, and by the mid 1990s the Save The Cinema Committee had formed and working with huge determination and enthusiasm, raised grants sufficient to succeed in re-opening the cinema in 1997.
Today, North Clutag is an ordinatry working dairy farm, but in the 1930's it was home to an extraordinary man. John McNeilie, who wrote under the pen name of Ian Niall, spent his boyhood days here. He scandalised the local community by publishing 'The Wigtown Ploughman', in which he described in unflinching details the hardships of life endured by farm labourers in the early years of the 20th century. The book sparked calls for change and progress, but locally he was ostracised by many neighbours who were all to recognisable on the page. McNeillie went on to publish more thatn 40 books, including the hugely popular 'The Poacher's Handbook', and 'No Resting Place', a remarkably sympathetic book on travelling gypsies, written as it was in 1948.
Little did anyone know that the boy born here in 1795 would go on to become one of the most prolific writers and social commentators of the 19th century. The unassuming exterior of this wee house in Ecclefechan, near Lockerbie, belies its significance in Scottish history. The house was constructed by Thomas Carlyle’s father and uncle – both local stonemasons – and is a fine example of Scottish 18th-century vernacular architecture. When Thomas Carlyle was 13, he left Ecclefechan and walked 84 miles to Edinburgh, to attend university. The Arched House has remained virtually untouched since 1881, when it first opened to the public with the Carlyle House Memorial Trust, started by Carlyle’s niece soon after his death.
The Oasis Youth Centre has its own state of the art recording studio, performance area, chill-out area, multi-media area and kitchen. It’s open Monday to Friday, and is used by lots of young people, sometimes for informal drop-ins, but also for the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Nithsdale Challenge, Young Parents’ Group and Music Nights. Community Learning & Development Service Nithsdale works with young people aged 12 to 25 years old and is a Dumfries & Galloway Council Service. You can also find out about volunteering opportunities and about youth services available within the Nithsdale Area.
Cross the fifteenth century Devorgilla Bridge to the Old Bridge House. Built in 1660 into the sandstone of the bridge itself, Dumfries’ oldest house is now a museum of everyday life in the town. You can see the family kitchen, nursery and bedroom of a Victorian home and pay a visit to an early dentist’s surgery! Interpretive panels and museum trails tell the story of a house overlooking the river Nith.
A chance to see the armed horsemen of the �Borderers�, a Border Reiver Living History group enacting the skills and traditions of 16C in the evocative setting of Old Buittle Tower. Built c 1500 for the Gordons of Lochinvar, this L-shaped tower house was originally within the bailey of Buittle Castle, once the seat of John Balliol, 13C King of Scots. Old Buittle Tower has in recent times been finely restored, and today provides the opportunity to explore the towerhouse and grounds/moats, also the medieval Laigh Hall, the period kitchen, stables and forge houses. Iinside the medieval Laigh Hall, with its vast fireplace, simple wooden benches and beamed ceiling hung with banners.
Perched high over Scotland’s most southerly village of Drummore, the 17th century Parish Church of Kirkmaiden has a rich history involving the Covenanters, witches and an unusual graveyard. The church became known as Kirk Covenant due to its origins in 1638, the year that the Covenanters entered Scottish history. Volunteers, who have an intimate knowledge of the Kirk, will be on hand to provide information and guided tours throughout the day. The Kirk is steeped in folklore and it is said that this area of the South Rhins was once well known for its witches. In 1697 the Rev. A. Marshall declared it to be ‘overrun by witches’ and employed a ‘witch finder’ from Wigtown, who inspected the entire adult congregation. The graveyard has numerous historic and unusual headstones, including a lighthouse erected by one of the Principal lighthouse keepers at the Mull of Galloway in memory of his young son.
Old Place of Monreith is a typical, plain, lowland laird's house, still nominally fortified, at the end of a long track. It was once the home of the Maxwells, including the famous beauty Jean, later Duchess of Gordon, and the ancestors of Sir Herbert, historian and gardener, and of the author Gavin Maxwell, who wrote 'Ring of Bright Water', and spent his boyhood in the district. It had become derelict but was bought and restored by its present owners, The Landmark Trust.
Purpose built and opened in 1848, this handsome neo-Tudor building was Wigtown’s prison for 30 years. It was then adapted for use as the town Police Station with a house for the policeman and remained as such until after World War II when it was sold to a local agricultural fertiliser business. It was later sold on again becoming a private residence in the 1950s. Four of the original nine cells remain – two of which are on show. They are dark and cold, inhabited now only by spiders. Remnants of graffiti etched into the lime-washed walls bear testimony to previous two legged inmates.
Tucked away in the spa town of Moffat is the Old Well Theatre, where the Upper Annandale Dramatic Society has deployed the greasepaint and wowed the crowds for over sixty years. Audiences can enjoy a variety of events at the theatre, including plays, pantomimes, musicals and art exhibitions as well as bringing change with ‘Moffat Movies’ – providing big screen movies with 7.1 digital surround sound. The Old Well Theatre supports charitable events and encourages other productions to visit the theatre, productions that bring drama, comedy and music to Moffat. The theatre also has its own choir ‘Old Well Singers’ and ‘Young U.A.D.S.’ for younger members of the Upper Annandale Dramatic Society.
Now owned by Historic Scotland, this charming mid-15C towerhouse stands in a delightful green dell. Its circular construction continues to puzzle historians since though round towers are common in Ireland, Orchardton is architecturally unique in Scotland. It was built in 1456 by John Cairns, who incorporated the image of a round tower into his crest, implying an awareness even then of its unusual status. (6 miles SE of Castle Douglas, on A711 between Dalbeattie and Dundrennan, sign on L).
By Goldie & Child of London with W & R Ingram of Glasgow as executant architects. Picturesque wood and glass porch, notable stained glass windows.
A rare opportunity to explore the historic Queen of the South football ground. Football has been played here since 19C, and Queen of the South was formed in 1919, when they bought the ground for �1,500. The current main stand dates from 1964, and was built to replace the late 19C stand which burned down. You will be shown the dressing rooms, the laundry, the physio area, walk up the tunnel, and see the board room and its trophy cabinets. The official Museum is spread throughout the building, and includes programmes, strips, ticket stubs, yearbooks and all kinds of memorabilia related to the �Super South�.
Tudor-style school built in 1844- 45, with later additions. Photographic exhibition of Penpont school - and scholars, in days gone-by.
Pre-booked guided tours only. A rare chance to experience an undeveloped site rich in industrial archaeology on a tour led by a professional archaeologist who has just completed a survey here on behalf of Dumfries and Galloway Museums Services. You will see the remains of the engine house, the waterwheel pit, the reservoir and disused mineshafts. Please note: this is an open air venue, access is by foot around the area of the mine, over rough ground. To book, telephone 01387 247543 between 9.00-17.00 on Monday 8 Sept. (From Dumfries, in Creetown turn right at Clock Tower and at Y junction take righthand fork (not to Gem Rock Museum), continue uphill out of Creetown, pass Drumraik Farm with red hay barn to small crossroads, take lefthand fork, signposted �Mark� and follow to end of tarred road. From here follow Doors Open Days signposting to park)
The View Cafe is a community space open to the public, to raise revenue and help sustain the lifeboat. The Rescue Service is 40 years old this year and as it is independently run, needs to raise funds to keep the lifeboat in the water throughout the year.
Portpatrick was once the busiest sea crossing to Ireland, and is noted for the ferocity of its winter storms. Portpatrick RNLI Lifeboat Station was established in 1877 at the request of local residents. Today it is home to the new Tamar Class Lifeboat RNLB John Buchanan Barr. The current Lifeboat came on station in November 2011 and the new berth was completed in August 2012. The crew are all volunteers, ready to go out on a ‘Shout’ and get soaked and frozen: what you need, they say, is a sense of humour. Visitors to the Station can have a tour of the Lifeboat, a look around the station and browse in the Lifeboat shop and museum. The beautiful seaside village of Portpatrick, recently made familiar to millions after Two Thousand Acres of Sky, is also home to the Lifeboat Station. The village once accommodated the busiest sea crossing to Ireland, and is noted for the ferocity of its winter storms.
Highly original 1979 design. Brown brick buttresses zigzagging up a hillside location. Nature Garden.
Pay a visit to the offices of Primrose and Gordon Solicitors, founded 1782, making it the oldest legal practice in South West Scotland. The splendid Georgian office was designed by Walter Newall and known to poet Robert Burns. Many impressive historical icons on display including a ‘Dumfries’ printed one Guinea banknote, Victorian correspondence and 19th century oil paintings.
Renewable Energy at 'Burnside' Glencaple
We are all becoming more aware of Climate Change and Global Warming, but as Peak Oil approaches, and with fuel and energy costs set to spiral out of control in the future, we all need to reduce our energy consumption and think about our options for small scale renewable energy generation at home. Two of the most cost effective technologies are Solar Thermal Panels to heat water, and Wood Fuel Heating Systems.
Gather at Hoddom Castle for a led walk with the Hoddom Ranger to Repentance Tower. He will guide you through woodland and then up a short but steep climb to the Tower on the ancient beacon hill of Trailtrow. Repentance Tower was built by John Maxwell, 4th Lord Herries, as a watchtower for Hoddom Castle in the 1560s. The summit of Trailtrow provides superb views in all directions, towards the Solway the Lake District and over Annandale, and is clearly a strategic site on which to build a border tower during the uncertain times of 16C.
Operating from the largest town in south west Scotland, Stranraer lifeboat station is one of 22 inshore lifeboat stations in Scotland. It has an inshore D class lifeboat
Situated in the town’s eighteenth century watermill on the west bank of the River Nith, the Robert Burns Centre tells the story of the poet’s last years spent in the bustling streets and lively atmosphere in Dumfries. The exhibition is illuminated by many original manuscripts and possessions of Burns. There is a fascinating scale model of Dumfries in the 1790s, additional information and images on touchscreen interactives, along with an audio booth to listen to some Burns songs and poems. Younger visitors can discover more about Scotland’s Bard through a gallery trail, colouring sheets, word games and jigsaws.
‘the smallest film theatre in Scotland’ The Centre is run by the Local Authority and is home to an exhibition about the poet Robert Burns and his life in the town as well as a 69 seat cinema which shows predominantly independent, documentary and foreign films. As well as an exhibition and cinema the Centre also houses a privately run restaurant called Hullabaloo, which is open 6 days per week and on Saturdays and Sundays up until the end of September.
Ellisland, the rural home of National Bard Robert Burns, set in stunning landscape beside the river Nith. The site inspired Burns to write some of his most famous works, including Tam o’Shanter and Auld Lang Syne. It is unique in Burns heritage, being the only house he built for himself and his family. Step back in time, by entering Burns’ kitchen and the Spence where he wrote and greeted his visitors. Discover a range of fascinating artefacts reflecting Burns’ life on the farm and his writing. Have a walk down the river, through Robert’s orchard and even take a peak at his outside loo! Though built by Burns as a farmhouse, he was already famous by 1788 and the building shows some significant differences to a traditional Dumfriesshire farmhouse of the 18th century.
It was in this simple sandstone house in a quiet Dumfries street that Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet spent the last years of his life. He died here in 1796 at the age of just thirty seven. The Burns Mausoleum is only a short walk away. The house retains most of its original features and the kitchen, scullery, bedroom and study give an atmospheric feel of the Burns family home. The parlour now contains many original artefacts including original manuscripts, Burns’ exciseman equipment and domestic items belonging to his wife Jean. The building is now a place of pilgrimage for Burns enthusiasts from around the world.
Ruthwell Parish Church and Ruthwell Cross
Ruthwell Church is the home of the world famous Ruthwell Cross. This Anglian Cross dates from the 7th Century and has carved on it part of a poem written in runes, said to be one of the earliest written examples of the English language. The church itself is said to be one of the oldest parish churches in SW Scotland and was featured on a recent BBC programme about mediaeval poetry. One of the church’s ministers in the 19th Century was the Rev. Dr. Henry Duncan, who is best remembered as founder of the TSB movement.
Simple brick built Gothic style church by J Garden Brown.
Evening's guided Heritage Walk to explore this historic small town, with its wynds, its handsome Tollbooth, the oldest post office in Scotland, and the gaunt ruins of Sanquhar Castle in the old Deer Park at the entrance to the town. STB access category 2: assisted wheelchair. In the past visited by William Wallace�s men, the gaunt ruins of Sanquhar Castle, many times besieged and sacked, lie in the old Deer Park at the entrance to the town.
Pyramid-roofed, 1980s design. Exhibitions on local life and lead-mining children of the Industrial Revolution.
Discover Sanquhar’s world famous knitting tradition and the story of the miners of Sanquhar and Kirkconnel. How did the ordinary people of Upper Nithsdale live and work in times past? Archaeology, artworks and audio-visual displays all tell these stories in the museum. On the ground floor the original prison cells can be visited where petty criminals were kept, and sometimes placed on public display in the jougs, still to be seen on the wall outside.
Owned by Reid and Taylor Limited of Langholm, the gallery houses its own collection of art as well as providing space for visiting artists. Attractively situated by the River Esk, the Gallery will host the Langholm Children's Treefest Art Exhibition and Solway Heritage's Out of the Woods exhibition. There will also be a ranger-led family walk, leaf art workshop and other stalls and attractions.
A very unusual survival of an eighteenth century windmill and an adjoining horse gin, all set within the context of a steading with byres dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. A fascinating chance to see such buildings in the process of restoration. A fascinating chance to see such buildings in the process of restoration.
Be a guest of Clan Hannay for the day, tour of tower and grounds including our 12th century motte, see the kitchen fire in operation and hear how life was lived on this ancient site, hear about our future plans for restoration. Learn more about the towers fascinating history and see it brought to light.
Picturesque Southerness Lighthouse stands at the foot of the old part of Southerness village. This is the oldest surviving complete lighthouse in Scotland and was once home to the lighthouse keeper night after night, as he ensured safety from the perils of the Solway’s rocks and sands. The lighthouse was completed in 1748 and would have been a familiar sight for the young John Paul Jones growing up at Arbigland. The sand and rocks of the Barnhouries off Southerness were especially dangerous, and the subject of folk tales such as ‘The Mermaid of Barnhourie’. The lighthouse was maintained until 1867, but the subsequent lack of it resulted in a horrendous series of shipping losses until Georgina Blackett of Arbigland (a great aunt of the previous owner), raised £250 to re-install the light. Inside the lighthouse there is a steep wooden staircase leading up to the light, where you will find spectacular views of the Solway Firth.
Whithorn, famous as the cradle of Christianity in Scotland, For a twentieth century view, visit the church of St Ninian, St Martin and St John, by Goodhart-Rendel, Broadbent and Curtis.
A church for the people of Dumfries has stood on this site since 1100, and the one you see today dates from 1742. The church is of handsome dark red sandstone, with a steepled tower. Inside is a very fine collection of 19-20C stained glass windows. Robert Burns and his wife Jean Armour worshipped here and were buried here in the Mausoleum in the churchyard.
Stewartry Museum to promote Kirkcudbright Galleries
The Stewarty Museum will be open in order to promote the new Kirkcudbright Galleries due to open in the former Town Hall building in March 2018. Building work started at the end of 2016 to transform the 19th century Town Hall in Kirkcudbright into a new gallery which will be of national significance. Kirkcudbright Galleries is due to open in March 2018 but you can catch a glimpse of the amazing new interior in a number of informal talks to be held at The Stewartry Museum across the road from the Town Hall. Kirkcudbright Galleries will boast a gallery showing works from the Kirkcudbright Art Collection, a Collection of National Significance in Scotland. On the first floor, there will be a large temporary exhibition space and a mezzanine level above, which can host various activities and events.
Space, light, air, metal 'trees' and real birds, that's 'Street', the 200 metre-long spine of the new wing of Stranraer Academy. Work began in 1995. It was officially opened in January 1999. Facilities are considered to be second to none in Scotland. Showpiece of post-modern educational building, the complex features a multisensory room, hydrotherapy pool, kitchen, dance studio and IT area, as well as a library and integrated special needs room called 'Aird'. Some classrooms have state of the art moveable walls to cope with fluctuating class sizes.
Stranraer's historic Old Town Hall, built in 1776, is the home of Stranraer Museum. Step inside and discover Wigtownshire's fascinating past. Inside Stranraer Museum see one of Scotland's oldest ploughs, a recognised collection of archaeology plus other local history, costume, farming, dairying and the Arctic explorer Sir John Ross. An exciting and varied temporary exhibition runs throughout the year.
A family owned Sulwath Brewers real ale brewery. The traditional brewing methods used here have helped to create a thriving business selling to connoisseur markets all over Britain. Sulwath is the ancient name for the Solway estuary and who can think of a better use for pure Scottish water, than real ale?
Sulwath Centre and Wildlife Gardens (RSPB)
Converted from a nineteenth century farmhouse, the Sulwath Centre was opened in April 2009 to promote lifelong learning on the Solway. Located in the heart of Mersehead RSPB Nature Reserve, the Centre incorporates education and training rooms, reception and office facilities, as well as providing accommodation for residential volunteers and field studies students. The Centre has many green credentials, including a wood pellet boiler and solar thermal panels. The surrounding land has been transformed into wildlife gardens, for particular use by visiting schoolchildren.
Sundial Cottage - Penpont Heritage Centre
Joseph Thomson, a famous explorer of Africa, was born in this cottage in 1858. When his father bought the house in 1856, he used his master building skills to add a cantilever staircase to access two bedrooms which he developed in the roof space to accommodate his five sons. On ground floor there is a box bedroom where Thomson was born and a room reserved for the Heritage of Penpont, Keir and Tynron . Outwith the cottage there is a wash-house, an outside boiler and sandstone steps leading to an annexe which was built as an armoury for the Penpont Rifle Volunteers (1860-1885). In the back garden there is still a pigsty and a privy. The cottage was home to Mrs. Jean Carson for 70 years and has changed little since the Thomson's occupied it from 1856-1868. Because Jean was proud to be in Thomson`s birthplace, she willingly welcomed parties of schoolchildren in the 80s and 90s . She explained its unique features and showed how she swept her own chimney using a whale bone brush she had bought for 30 shillings. Even at 95 she was willing to be photographed and filmed and, as a result, the idea was born of, one day, converting this cottage into a Heritage Centre. As such, it was officially opened in 2013 by the Duke of Buccleuch who has leased the property to the community at a nominal rent. Sophia Harkness MBE FRSGS
A Jacobean-style sandstone manor house by 19C architect William Burn. Given new life - and new buildings, as an agricultural college. Modern courtyard block 1984-91.
The oldest bookshop in Scotland’s Book Town is a Georgian gem of a building housing a labyrinth of old books, with shelves that stretch for over a mile. The range of stock includes all subjects.
The CatStrand is an award-winning arts and community centre in the heart of the Glenkens, presenting a high quality programme of arts events and activities, workshops and learning as well as information for locals and tourists. 2018 The CatStrand is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Glenkens Community Arts Trust. There’s also a trip down memory lane with ten years of GCAT in our photographic exhibition. So open the door and enjoy a real celebration of events on offer at The CatStrand.
The Crichton Memorial Church and Gardens
The story of the Crichton begins in 1823 with the death of Dr James Crichton of Friars Carse who left to his widow, Elizabeth, the then considerable sum of around £100,000 to be used for charitable purposes. With the help of her friend, the Rev Henry Duncan, Minister of Ruthwell Parish and founder of the Trustee Savings Bank, Elizabeth attempted to endow a College of University status in Dumfries ‘for the education of poor scholars’. After a twenty year battle, she recognised that her dream was not to be and instead endowed a ‘lunatic asylum’ on the edge of the town. In delivering the Crichton bequest, Elizabeth was determined to produce a hospital that was the best in Europe, not only in the treatment of patients but also in its architecture and environment. When recruiting the first Physician Superintendent, the same considerations applied. The appointment of Dr William Browne was to be the first in a long line of very able and distinguished physicians in charge. The doors opened in 1839. The next 150 years saw the growth of that vision into an internationally recognised centre of excellence in mental health research and care.
A Victorian hospital with a difference, the Crichton was founded by Mrs Elizabeth Crichton in memory of her husband, an East India Company doctor. It came to boast its own ballroom, 85 acres of grounds laid out with seed and cuttings from The Royal Botanic gardens, Edinburgh, and its own water and electricity supply. The Crichton still surprises today, as its transformation into a modern facility for learning and enterprise continues.
Leave the tarmac and take a walk, a cycle or even a drive on the wild side of Galloway on waymarked tracks. Look out for red squirrel, buzzard and deer, and superb views of the Galloway hills. Kirroughtree Forest Drive (from Visitor Centre off A75 east of Newton Stewart, to A712 Queensway) Raiders Road Forest Drive (linking A712 at Clatteringshaws Loch with A762 Laurieston - New Galloway) Carrick Forest Drive (between Loch Doon and the Straiton - Newton Stewart Road)
In 1796, Burns wrote: "... the Globe Tavern here, which these many years has been my Howff ..." Established in 1610, The Globe Inn, Dumfries has long been associated with Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet. The Globe Inn is an important historic pub, steeped in the history of Robert Burns and Dumfries. Every corner is packed with fascinating memorabilia making The Globe a central part of any visit to Dumfries.
Beautifully situated high up Forrest Glen, the Green House is a timber-framed, turf roofed eco house entirely run on solar and hydro power. Incorporating highly energy-efficient design features, and built wherever possible of natural sustainable materials sourced locally, the Green House is a showcase of environmentally sound construction. The building is the award winning eco-office headquarters of the Natural Power Company.
The Invention of the Bicycle - Kier to Dumlanrig
Fellow villagers thought Kirkpatrick MacMillan mad for dreaming up the idea. He rode his cumbersome machine 68 miles over rough roads from his home to Glasgow to visit his two school teacher brothers. In June 1842 the inventor was fined 5 shillings for speeding at 8 mph into the Gorbals and knocking down a little girl. The magistrate was sufficiently impressed to ask MacMillan for a figure-of-eight demonstration in the courtyard, and is said to have slipped him the money for the fine. Before you ride away from Keir you might also like to look for MacMillan’s gravestone in Keir Mill graveyard. It's in the old graveyard which is on the right down a lane, 50 metres beyond the church leaving the village - the only grey coloured gravestone.
Built in 1785 as a cotton mill powered by the great mill wheel, the 'Roaring Birtwistle', the Mill on the Fleet is now restored as a visitor centre in an idyllic riverside setting. Exhibition gallery, picture gallery, riverside cafe and local crafts and gifts shop. Treefest Photography Competition winners' work displayed, and a new willow sculpture, specially commissioned to celebrate Treefest 2002.
Newton Stewart Museum is situated in York Road, Newton Stewart in the imposing building which was formerly St John’s Church. The building houses a comprehensive collection of artefacts from all walks of life, i.e. costumes nursery, cameras, World War 1 & 2, bicycle's and many more. The outdoor display illustrates the agricultural heritage of Newton Stewart and surrounding area. The collection was started by Miss Drew and has over a period of years been added to by the public donating items relevant to this area and adding to the community feel of the exhibition. The downstairs of the building houses a collection of agricultural machinery, clothing and domestic paraphernalia. Up the stairs into the old belfry and one finds a collection of pictures, old newspapers and school items. All demonstrating the rich history of this area. At present there is an exhibit in the museum showing how the Sparling fish are native to the local river Cree, one of a very few rivers in Britain where they currently reside.
What happened in prehistoric times when a person died? Where did they go? Visit the archeological site at Newbarns and discover for yourself the beliefs of our Stone Age ancestors, which included reincarnation and afterlife. Stout footwear recommended.
The last couple of years has brought dramatic change to Saint Andrews Primary School, originally a Roman Catholic school run by nuns. This handsome red sandstone Victorian building has received an injection of new life in the form of eight small businesses taking up residence there. In October 2011 The Old School had been forlornly empty for some years until nine young women moved in and turned it into a place buzzing with creativity. Within this atmospheric building you will find The Fairy Bodmother with her dance, fitness and nutrition classes, Blusha the makeup artist and wedding specialist, hair styling by Joanne Campbell Hair and beauty therapies from Robyn Elizabeth Beauty. The Art Room offers gifts, crafts, original art and creative workshops. Or you can visit photographer Louise Llewellyn, drama classes and courses from The Drama Company and no-one will want to miss the quirky charm of NonaLou’s tearoom which supplies many homemade treats as well as local produce.
"The Amiablest and Kindliest of Men" Thomas Carlyle on Henry Duncan, founder of the Ruthwell Savings Bank. Tucked away in the pretty Dumfriesshire village of Ruthwell on the Solway, you will find the very room where the Trustee Savings Bank originated. On 10th May 1810, the Reverend Henry Duncan launched a community self-help project that would become both nation and worldwide. Saving money for the future was of course not a new concept but until Reverend Duncan's project was launched, hiding your savings in your own home was the only option. Solving this security issue the Savings Bank project offered a secure means of saving and at last, ordinary folk were able to save their small sums of money and into the bargain earn a good interest, gain access to financial institutions, and increase their confidence and future prospects.
This listed (Grade B) steading has been converted from a ruin to a home over the last 25 years. The transformation has included many ‘green’ and sustainable features such as recycled materials (many found on site), sheep’s wool insulation, solar water heating, passive solar gain via a conservatory and wood burning stoves for space and water heating.
The oldest theatre in Scotland, the Theatre Royal is in the heart of Dumfries and first opened its doors in 1792. It has strong associations with the renowned Scottish poet Robert Burns, who wrote several pieces specifically for its stage. The Theatre saw multiple changes of ownership during the first half the of 20th Century, before being bought by the Guild of Players in 1959. The Guild managed to secure support from new sources and instead of planning on building new facilities upwards, they looked towards expanding outwards. Adjacent buildings were purchased, and renovation work began in 2014, completed by the end of 2015. The newly refurbished building includes several new spaces while maintaining many of the historic features, ushering Scotland’s oldest theatre into the 21st Century. Attend one of the touring productions presented throughout the year, which includes live music, stand-up comedy and theatrical dramas. The Guild of Players presents a regular season of four shows, as well as a family-friendly Christmas pantomime.
The Tolbooth was once the Town Council meeting place and office, the Court and Prison. Now holds contemporary art and crafts exhibitions and tells the story of the Kirkcudbright 'art colony'.
Hidden Treasures, Museum of Lead Mining, is situated in Wanlockhead, the highest village in Scotland. Here you can explore the Visitor Centre, take a tour into the dark inside the Lead Mine and see how people lived here in three period Cottages 1750,1850 and 1910. Despite the hardship of the work and the climate, Wanlockhead’s miners created one of the oldest Subscription Libraries in the country, which still has its original collection of almost 3,000 books.
Volunteers at Westerkirk Parish Church welcome visitors to view the beautiful windows designed by Alex Haynes of Brampton Glass. The twelve windows represent the flora and fauna of Eskdale throughout the twelve months of the year and were donated by residents of the valley. The March window, the Jubilee Window, represents donations from a door-to-door-campaign in Westerkirk. A formal opening ceremony took place in 2002 at which the window was unveiled by HRH Duke of Gloucester and attended by the Earl of Dalkeith. The windows are unique in any church in Scotland - or indeed in the British Isles. An opportunity to visit the Johnstone Mausoleum in the cemetry, designed by Robert Adam. It commemorates John Johnstone of Alva, the right hand man of Robert Clive who engineered British rule in India, fighting several key battles with the French for control of trade in the sub-continent.
Westerkirk Parish Church & Johnstone Mausoleum
Westerkirk Parish Church sits above the Esk at Bentpath. It was designed in 1880 by James Burnet, but in a style current 50 years earlier, with pinnacled tower, lancet windows and buttresses. Inside are unique modern stained glass windows that depict native wildlife. A short walk up the lane is the Greek Doric revival Johnstone Mausoleum, designed in 1792 by Robert Adam for James Johnstone. This atmospheric little building is a domed Greek cross, ornamented with Robert Adam’s ox skulls (bukrania) which recall ancient temples and blood sacrifice. There is also a frieze of human skulls, restored in recent years by Solway Heritage.
Visit one of the oldest lending libraries in Scotland - an historic community library founded in 1793 by the antimony miners who worked at Glendinning. In 1834 famous engineer Thomas Telford gave a large bequest to the library for the buying of books, because he was born in this glen. The building was completed in 1860-63 by local subscription. It is a small, ecclesiastical- looking building with two light Gothic windows and a Gothic chimney. Inside you will find tall wooden bookcases lined with leather covered books. Even in the 21st century in times of great change, the library is still open once a month to the residents of Eskdale.
Excavations near Whithorn from 2015 to the present, carried out by AOC Archaeology, have revealed the timberwork and architectural detail for a group of Iron Age houses, which were discovered in an unprecedented state of preservation owing to waterlogged conditions at the site. An oak doorway, façade of vertical oak timbers, and woven flooring made of hazel, covered with grasses and vegetation, were discovered, as well as, recently, evidence of wood-turning, metalworking and a finely decorated wooden bowl. The Whithorn Trust has used the evidence to construct a full-size replica, which won the Scottish Heritage Angels Award in 2017. It measures 13 metres across, with a central working fireplace, and is about 9 metres at the apex. The building is thatched with water reed and this work was carried out by local volunteers and trainees, under supervision of a master thatcher. The timbers are alder or oak and the woven walls, filled with clay, are from hazel gathered from an Atlantic Hazel Woodland, near Newton Stewart. The Trust now operates the venue as part of its visitor attraction and for educational and community use. The interiors of the building continue to develop, as archaeologists continue excavation and post excavation analysis.
1901, Renovated 1988, Roundhouse built 2016
Whithorn is associated with Scotland's first Saint, Ninian. The Christian settlement became a famous pilgrimage site with commoners and kings visiting the shrine of St Ninian. The routes across the sea bore trade goods as well as pilgrims.
The Wigtown Martyrs Trail and Martyrs’ Cell, Wigtown County Buildings. Meet in the whitewashed Martyrs’ Cell inside Wigtown County Buildings to join The Wigtown Martyrs’ Trail. Scotland’s Booktown is an ancient Royal Burgh with an infamous role in our religious and social history. In 1685 Margaret Wilson and Margaret McLachlan were drowned and three men (George Walker, William Johnstone, and John Milroy) hanged without proper trial, because they would not sign an oath stating that the King was head of the church, and would not attend church services conducted by Episcopalian curates.
Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, & Old Granary
200-year-old sandstone-built granary, modified repeatedly as the needs of agriculture evolved, now given new lease of life through sensitive conversion to provide facilities to this internationally important nature reserve. Access to Old Granary. Farmhouse kitchen serving organic food and Fair Trade tea and coffee.
The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Caerlaverock Wetlands Centre is a 1,500 acre wild nature reserve with observatories, towers and hides overlooking the home of thousands of wintering wildfowl. A rugged and beautiful destination offering open space and tranquil wildlife watching. The wild wetland reserve at WWT Caerlaverock is an important home to ducks, geese, swans and wading birds. Visitors can wander around the reserve, popping into one of the many hides to watch a variety of birds and other wildlife such as hares and deer. The wildlife garden has been specially planted with colourful, wildlife-friendly flowers, to attract insects such as bees, butterflies and moths. Take a stroll through the Paddock with its wildlife ponds, have a look out over the Folly Pond from the Scottish Water Hide, then wander on towards the Sir Peter Scott Observatory where you can take the lift to the top. Climb the Farmhouse Tower and use the giant binoculars to look out over the Solway Firth and towards Criffel. Walk around the Sir Peter Scott Trail with its wet woodland and reedbeds. Then head back to the visitor centre for a browse around the gift shop and some refreshments in the Cathan Coffee Shop with its current art exhibition.
Abertay Historical Society Fieldwork Division – Hidden Broughty Ferry
A free guided walk lasting approximately 2 hours led by members of the Abertay Historical Society Fieldwork Division. Open to all who are interested in discovering more about local history. We will be exploring lesser known aspects of Broughty Ferry including its beginnings as a fishing village, its role in the defence of the Tay, and the development of the railway and suburb. Non-bookable Meet in front of Broughty Castle, Castle Approach, Dundee, DD5 2TF
Avertical World is Tayside’s dedicated indoor climbing centre, based in the former St Mary Magdalene Church. The climbing take advantage of the vaulted ceilings and the church’s old basement to create a unique local climbing facility. Open for over 16 years, facilities and courses for novices and training for young and old climbers, whether it is bouldering, top roping or lead climbing. Progression through the National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme (NICAS) for youngsters. Climbing is one of the up and coming sports and will be joining the next Olympics. Open to all with climbs to suit novices through to experts. Member of the Association of British Climbing Walls. Kids, Family and Party sessions available. Walking distance from the city centre. Open 7 days year round.
This is an opportunity to see behind the scenes of one of Dundee's community fire stations. As well as getting the opportunity to see a working fire station in action, Fire-fighters will be on hand to provide fire safety advice, offer free Home Fire Safety Visits and demonstrate some of their firefighting and rescue equipment and skills.
We’ll look at the built environments within the Botanic Garden – the hot and cool glasshouses housing the rainforest and desert environments, the award-winning visitor centre, the fascinating gardens of evolution and genetics and the energy-neutral macromicro studio
A rare chance to explore the underground ammunition magazine at Broughty castle. Shells and cartridges were once stored here to feed the 4.7 inch Quick Fire Costal Defence guns on the Ramparts above. Visitor are advised that due to the historic nature of the building, there is no disabled access to the Castle or the artillery magazine. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Step on the Stage where so many stars have appeared. From Elton John, David Bowie, The Cure, Frank Sinatra, The Beatles and the Rolling Stones, Radiohead, Bjork, The Proclaimers, Stereophonics to name but a few. See behind the scenes of Dundee’s major Concert/Conference Venue and get a closer look at the magnificent Harrison and Harrison Organ, The Stage, Marryat Hall, Gallery and backstage.
Our allotment site has been in existence since the 1940s when the need arose to grow your own for the war effort. Originally farmland, the allotments have evolved over the years to the present day where we now have 71 plots of assorted sizes in use. The Association manages the site, which is leased from Dundee City Council; our purpose is to promote the growing of fruit and vegetables, to manage the site to promote a community spirit among members and to protect and enhance the environment. Our site is constantly evolving, incorporating a calming, wildlife area, a welcoming display of flowers and a new project that we have just started working on. Come on in and see these areas as well as our wonderful plots!
District 10: Shipping Container Office Building
District 10 is a highly sustainable office building made of shipping containers providing work space for start-up creative industry companies. Commended in the Scottish Design Awards the game Tetris wraps around the outside of the building promoting the creative and unpredictable organisations within. Hosted by ‘Jon Frullani Architect’ in their office. Also includes a Free talk on “Tenement Repair and Maintenance” by Ian Muir of ‘Muir Walker and Pride’ Architects (hosted by RIAS and RICS) on Sunday 15th from 11:00-12:00 (no booking required), with questions and information stands afterwards. Jon and Ian are President and Vice President respectively of the ‘Dundee Institute of Architects’ and look forward to meeting you to answer any questions architectural!
Dundee Art Societys private picture collection will be on show plus artists will be working on their own work throughout the weekend. Dundee Art Society has been part of the art centre in the city since the late 19th Century. Local businessmen came together to found a museum and art gallery which is now the McManus Art Gallery and Museum . The focus of both professional and amature artists now and in its beginning was toi promote the organisation of art classes, talks, demonstrations and exhibitions for its members. The society has a private collection of paintings including works by David Fuggie, James McIntosh Patrick and James Reville.
Drop in to see this marvellous building with a unique design; the first purpose built mosque in North East Scotland using traditional Scottish materials and energy efficient construction techniques. On each corner is a rounded tower with a minaret and plain glass at the top. On the South elevation is a Mihrab, a semi-circular projection from the wall with a copper dome on top. See also the Mosque website: www.dundeeislamicsociety.com for further information on the event.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Dundee City Archives we will be offering special tours behind the scenes at the archives. Tours will include a chance to get up close with some original documents covering Dundee’s history from the 14th century to the present day. See documents from some of our key collections, including the Keiller Collection, Caledon Shipbuilders Collection and the Dundee Harbour Trust Collection. Find out more about Dundee’s history and the people who have lived here. Some of our volunteers will also be on hand to explain about the work they have been doing at the Archives. Tours will take place at 10:00am, 10:30am, 11:30am and 12:00pm. Booking is essential for the tours as spaces are limited. Each tour will take around 45 minutes. There will also be a talk about “The Street Names of Dundee” at 11am and “How to Research your Dundee Family History” at 12:30pm. Booking is not essential for the talks. Talks will last around 45 minutes.
Walk: Hidden Gems based on works of WG Lamond - Schools, Churches, Domestic Buildings - Finishes City Centre.
Our Church will be open between 1030am and 1400pm on Saturday 14th.September when we will be decorating the Church for Harvest. There may be organ recitals during this period. Tea and coffee will be served in the Welcome Hall. The Church will also be open from 1030am until 1230pm on Sunday 15th. September when we will be celebrating Harvest Thanksgiving.
Drop in to our projection booth during Doors Open Days and get a behind the scenes look at how we put films on our screens. Discover more about cinema technology and its development and see a part of DCA that’s rarely open to the public. Tour our Print Studio and find out how out team supports artists to create and present work.
Dundee Museum of Transport opened on Market Street in April 2014 after three years of building renovation and preparation. The Museum has a fantastic collection of vehicles and models and a growing collection of local transport-related objects for visitors to enjoy. Guided tours will be provided of Dundee Museum of Transport by the museum’s team of enthusiastic volunteers. Find out about the spectacular Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Dundee’s Last Horse-Drawn Tram and other interesting objects from this growing transport collection.
Founded in about 1190 it is the Parish Church for the City of Dundee hosting Civic Services such as the Kirkin’ of the Council, Guildry Services and the Civic Remembrance Day Service. It boasts a fully detailed Black Watch War Memorial and Merchant Seamen’s Memorial as well as several olther Memorials. It incorporates many outstanding examples of stained glass including the splendid East window gifted in 1897 designed by Sir Edward Burne-Jones and executed by Wiliam Morris. The Church’s long connection with High School of Dundee is reflected in a more modern stained glass window situated in the Huntingdon Aisle at the back of the Church.
Dundee Sheriff Court building is an imposing listed building designed in 1833 by Edinburgh architect George Angus and completed in 1863 by William Scott. It was extensively renovated in 1996 and officially opened by the Princess Royal in 1997. This year, guided tours of the building will take in the historic Court 1, meet custody officers in the court cells and an opportunity for children to try on wigs and gowns, and sit on the bench.
Gate Church International SCIO: Building Tours
St Mark’s Church was built between 1868 and 1869. It was designed by Pilkington and Bell in a free Gothic style typical of Frederick T Pilkington. The church was extended in 1879 by Ireland and MacLaren. Featuring superb stained-glass windows and a raised timbre ceiling, this A-listed church is a unique example of circular congregational seating and aisles. An ambitious energy efficiency project, grant-assisted by Climate Challenge Fund, is currently under-way, you can see the progress of this work during your visit and find out about ongoing community activities.
Gilfillan Memorial Church will be available for visitors to look round. Guides will be on hand and refreshments are available at all times. We usually manange to have a display of materials from the Church archive and we hope to have an organ recital.
At nearly 200 years old, HMS Unicorn is one of the world’s most remarkable historic ships and preserved as a museum and visitor attraction in Dundee with four atmospheric decks for visitors to explore. So step back in time and learn about life at sea, the Navy in Dundee, and ‘the Golden Age of Sail’… HMS Unicorn is great fun to visit but she was designed for a different age! Please note that the ship contains steep stairs, trip hazards, low ceilings, narrow and low doorways, decks that are slippery when wet and low levels of light. When planning your visit, please be aware that the entrance and exits are low, there are low ceilings and beams throughout the ship (especially on the orlop deck), and there are trip hazards throughout the ship. Please refer to our website to view our accessibility guide.
One of the most beautiful Masonic Lodges in the area and part of Broughty History for over 150 years, many local men have joined over those years. The hall has been used by the public for many years for local functions and was used by the military during both the 1st and 2nd Word Wars. Many Broughty Ferry men have passed through it doors as members. And the Lodge records will be available for anyone who wishes to trace family members. There will be a display of regalia, artifacts, records and photographs tracing the history of the Lodge and other Masonic Orders over 150 years. Members will be in attendance to provide information. Tea and coffee will be served
The Maggie’s centre is Dundee provides emotion, practical and social support to people with cancer and their family and friends. World famious Architect Frank Gehry said of Maggie’s Dundee “There is a Yiddish expression Heymish, it means homelike, comfortable. This is what we are trying to do here” The centre sits in front of Ninewells Hospital looking across the Tay to the Fife hills and is the only Gehry Building in the UK. Maggies’s has his signature curving walls and undulating stainless steel roof. Join us for a tour of the facilities and a walk aroung our beautiful Labyrinth.
Come and explore our city centre church complex! Learn about our stained glass windows and their donors, listen to our organist playing (Saturday 14:00-15:00) and enjoy the peace of our garden.
Originally the Morgan Hospital founded by John Morgan (1760-1850) of Balgay House modelled on George Heriots Hospital Institute in Edinburgh. This imposing landmark building of tremendous architectural significance was designed by Architects Peddie and Kinnear, 1863-8. It re-opened in 1889 under the Dundee Schools Board as Morgan Academy. It was significantly enlarged (1913-15) by James H Langlands and been adapted and extensded numerous times since, notably by Tayside Region Achitects Department in 1991-2. This Grade A listed building is a fine example of high gothic stone and slate Scottish architecture. The building has remained a focal point to the Stobswell are since its opening in 1868 to much pomp and ceremony.
NCR has had a significant presence in the Dundee since 1946. Now located in the Discovery Centre off the Kingsway. This is a unique opportunity to see behind the scenes of the NCR research and development centre for banking solutions. Home to over 550 associates specialising in hardware and software engineering, design, marketing and support. Over 1.7million NCR ATMs have been shipped globally, all designed in Dundee. Guided tours will lead visitors through key stages in NCR Dundee’s history, showcase the latest products, provide an insight into the development process steps. In addition visitors will see the unique artworks recently created in collaboration with Open/Close Dundee. NCR Corporation is a leader in omni-channel solutions, turning everyday interactions with businesses into exceptional consumer experiences. With its software, hardware, and portfolio of services, NCR enables nearly 700 million transactions daily across banking and commerce. NCR solutions run the everyday transactions that make your life easier. NCR is headquartered in Atlanta, USA, with about 30,000 employees globally and does business in 180 countries. The building was completed in November 2001. Designed by James F Stephen Architects.
One of the country's best aquatic facilities offering: 4 flumes (3D holograms and sound effects), and the Cannonball which drops you 3.8 metres Leisure Pool: rapid river, wave pool and seated bubble beds Dive Pool:1, 3 & 5 metre diving boards 50/25 metre Training Pool Activity Pool Fitness Studio (44 stations) Offering great value for money at one of the country's best aquatic facilities including four flumes, will you dare the Cannonball which drops you 3.8 metres. Olympia flumes additionally boast a number of unique features to Scotland including, LED light effects, music and sound plus 3D holograms all adding to a fantastic sensory experience. Customers continue to have fun when playing in the Leisure Pool, which hosts a rapid river, water geysers, waves and seated bubble beds. The 4m Dive Pool boasts 1m and 3m springboards and a 5 metre platform. Olympia's main pool offers a six lane 50/25 metre Training Pool, and an Activity Pool (which has a movable floor to change depths) for aerobic classes & swimming lessons. Situated a five minute walk from Dundee bus station, Olympia is easy to get to for Dundee citizens and our many visitors from around the country and beyond.
An opportunity to view behind the scenes activities at a busy, charity animal welfare hospital. There will be tours of the building and fun things to do.
Only the massive tower and highest spire in Dundee give any hint of the splendour within Dundee’s Episcopal Cathedral. Famous Victorian architect, Gilbert Scott, uses ingenuity to create grandeur on the constricted site of Castle rock. Come and see a display of C18th and C19th communion silver and C19th and early C20th embroidered vestments. Come and hear the Cathedral’s fine pipe organ. On the hour we offer tours of the Cathedrals normally hidden nooks and crannies including the Cathedral tower (max 10 on each tour). Church service will restrict access to those wishing to attend between 10.30 and 12.00. Tower tours available on Saturday on the hour and Sunday from 14.00 to 17.00 on the hour. All tours are non bookable.
St Salvador’s, commissioned at an early stage in Bodley’s long career, shows the beginning of interest in a simple English gothic style, an ideal basis for coloured decoration. Its design is a progress from west to east, starting with the low sloping roof of the porch. Then comes the nave, tall and quite narrow, with the rich green of the lower part and the deep biscuit colour of the buttressed aisles graduated up into the lighter tones of the upper walls and roof, where massive timbers are bevelled with red. A more sumptuous red is the basis of the chancel arch which leads onwards and upwards into a space completely dominated by colour, having its climax in the high altar and figure-painted reredos. (This and much of the stained glass are the work of the London firm of Burlison and Grylls). Through the arcade to the south of the chancel is the Lady chapel, whose own splendid treatment is pitched somewhere between that of the nave and the chancel. A sung Mass will be celebrated from 11am -12 noon on Sunday morning, during which time any visitors are asked to join the worship and see the church in action as Bodley intended.