Coldstream Museum

About the museum

Coldstream Museum stands in Market Square in Coldstream, a small town on the River Tweed on the border between Scotland and England. The museum says it is on the site of General Monck’s headquarters. From here Monck marched his army south in January 1660 to take part in the restoration of the monarchy under Charles II. His regiment, raised in 1650, later became the Coldstream Guards, and the town is still best known as the regiment’s home.

The museum is run by Live Borders, the charity that operates the Scottish Borders museums and libraries. Objects on loan from the Coldstream Guards tell the story of the regiment at home and abroad from the 17th century to the present day.

A second set of permanent displays covers the history of the burgh itself, with the provosts’ regalia, local trades and sporting memorabilia. The location of the town on the border also ties its story to events such as Edward I’s invasion of Scotland in 1296, the Wars of Scottish Independence and the Battle of Flodden.

The Courtyard Gallery shows three changing exhibitions during the season, often by local artists. The museum also has an interactive children’s area, a shop and a courtyard with a picnic table.

Highlights

• Coldstream Guards collection on loan from the regiment
• Site of General Monck’s headquarters, 1660
• Burgh history with provosts’ regalia and local trades
• Courtyard Gallery with changing exhibitions
• Interactive children’s area

Permanent exhibitions

• Coldstream Guards collection – Objects on loan from the Coldstream Guards tell the regiment’s story from the 17th century to today.
• Story of the burgh – Displays on the history of Coldstream, with the provosts’ regalia, local trades and sporting memorabilia.

Founded

1980

Operated by

Live Borders (Scottish charity SC034227)

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Admission is free; donations are welcome to help keep the museum free.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom
• 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 museum is on one level with level access throughout. The accessible toilet includes baby changing facilities. Assistive technology is available. A visual social story and an access guide can be downloaded from the museum page. Assistance dogs are welcome.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Hands-on stations
• Baby changing facilities
• Playground / play area

The museum describes itself as family friendly with hands-on activities and an interactive children’s area. A free children’s trail runs during Coldstream Civic Week in early August.

Getting there & parking

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

Gift shop and a courtyard with a picnic table. Wi-Fi is not mentioned.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit