McKechnie Institute

Temporary Closure: Due to essential improvement work to the building, The McKechnie Institute Museum and Gallery will be closed to the public from 4pm on Saturday 29th June. We apologise for this unavoidable disruption but look forward to welcoming you back early Autumn 2024. Please follow our social media channels for updates or visit our website for details.

Opening hours

About the McKechnie Institute

Girvan's cultural hub, featuring a permanent display of artefacts highlighting the town's heritage, the McKechnie Institute also hosts a regular programme of changing exhibitions, events and activities. Visit the McKechnie, to see Girvan through time:

• Geology, fossils, the history of Ailsa Craig and its granite
• Maritime history and model ships
• Victorian lounge and bedroom
• Bronze Age Cinerary Urns dating 2100-1500 BC

The history of the McKechnie Institute

Always at the heart of the Girvan, the McKechnie Institute opened to the public in 1889 thanks to the benevolence of local businessmen, Thomas and Robert McKechnie. Built in the Scottish Baronial style with some Renaissance detailing, its architects McKissack & Rowan of Glasgow, also designed Girvan's North Parish Church. The ground floor originally contained a library, reading room and ladies room, with a billiards room and a Librarian's house on the first floor. During WW1 the McKechnie was the registration centre for the area. All that history, and more, awaits, so why not along and see it for yourself!

If you have any enquiries about the McKechnie Institute, South Ayrshire Council's collections, our exhibitions and events, or if you are interested in exhibiting with us, please contact us by telephone number or email.

Visitor accessibility and facilities:

• Accessibility access via Ailsa Street West
• Accessible toilet
• Bookable meeting spaces

Location

Contact

McKechnie Institute
Dalrymple Street
Girvan
KA26 9AE

Tel: 01465 713643
Email: rozelle.house@south-ayrshire.gov.uk