Biggar Gasworks Museum

About the museum

Biggar Gasworks opened in 1839 to supply coal gas to the town and the surrounding district, making it one of the first small-town gasworks in Scotland. It kept producing gas for more than 130 years and closed in 1973, among the last of its kind in the country. Soon afterwards it passed into state care so that it could stand as a reminder of the gas industry.

Almost all of the buildings and equipment survive, and it is the only preserved gasworks left in Scotland. The oldest building is the retort house of 1839, whose retorts were taken out in 1914 when it became a coal store. The visitor centre is housed in what was built in 1858 as the gasman's home. The two gas holders date from 1858 and 1879 and were rebuilt in 1918 and 1939.

The site also keeps coal sheds, a condenser, an exhauster, purifiers, a gas meter, an office and showroom, and even the coal barrows and shovels. Some of the steam-driven machines that produced and distributed the gas can be seen working. Historic Environment Scotland looks after the site today.

Highlights

• Only preserved gasworks in Scotland
• Retort house of 1839, the oldest building on site
• Two gas holders of 1858 and 1879, rebuilt in 1918 and 1939
• Steam-driven machines shown in action
• Exhibition with a short film in the visitor centre

Permanent exhibition

• Biggar Gasworks – Preserved coal gasworks with retort house, gas holders, purifiers and steam-driven machines, plus an exhibition with a short film in the visitor centre.

Operated by

Historic Environment Scotland

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Admission is free; donations are encouraged.

Accessibility

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

The approach is a level but uneven tarmac lane of about 50 m from the main street. The central courtyard is mainly gravel with some brick paths, so it is uneven. The visitor centre and most buildings have a single step. There is no induction loop in the exhibition. Assistance dogs are allowed, including in roofed areas.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The museum is reached along a lane of about 50 m from the main street. National Cycle Network routes can be searched on the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust site.

Amenities & dining

The visitor centre has an exhibition with a short film.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit