Auld Kirk Museum

About the museum

The Auld Kirk was built in 1644 as the parish church of Kirkintilloch, on the site of an older church, in the shape of a Greek cross with crow-stepped gables. A 1644 date stone is still on the south gable. When a larger parish church was completed in 1914 the old building became a Sunday school.

The Town Council took over the building in 1941, and after refurbishment it opened as the town museum in 1961. It is a Category A listed building and has been managed by East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust since 2011. The Auld Kirk is now the main museum of East Dunbartonshire Museum Services.

Inside, a permanent display tells the history of Kirkintilloch, including one of the red telephone boxes made by the town’s Lion Foundry, and a changing exhibition space shows work by local, national and international artists. The museum also tells the story of Rita Cowan, known as the “Mother of Japanese Whisky”. Peel Park next door was the site of a Roman fort on the Antonine Wall.

Highlights

• Category A listed church of 1644 in the shape of a Greek cross
• Permanent display on the history of Kirkintilloch
• Red telephone box made by the town’s Lion Foundry
• Story of Rita Cowan, the “Mother of Japanese Whisky”
• Changing exhibition programme and nearby Peel Park

Permanent exhibition

• History of Kirkintilloch – A permanent display on the local history of Kirkintilloch and its surroundings, including a Lion Foundry telephone box.

Founded

1961

Operated by

East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Admission is free.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The car park has one Blue Badge bay, about 52 metres from the main entrance. The route from the car park can be used by a wheelchair user with assistance because of slopes and ramps.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

Traveline Scotland has a journey planner for bus routes.

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

The shop sells souvenirs, cards, prints, handmade jewellery and crafts such as pottery and textiles. Card payment is encouraged.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit