Colzium House and Museum

About the museum

Colzium House was built in 1783 and enlarged in 1861. It was the seat of the Edmonstone family and passed to the Burgh of Kilsyth after the Second World War. Much of the original building was pulled down in the late 1940s because of dry rot, but the Victorian front and wings still stand.

The museum fills a single room on the second floor, a former chapel. It shows local heritage, with objects from Colzium and Kilsyth castles, photographs, household items and industrial artefacts, including samples from the Victorian brickworks at nearby Banton. Some carved stonework from Kilsyth Castle is also on display.

The wider estate has the excavated remains of a 15th-century tower house, a restored ice-house from around 1680 that visitors can look into, and a walled garden. The area is also linked to the 17th-century Battle of Kilsyth. The house can be hired for weddings, conferences and private parties.

Highlights

• Objects from Colzium and Kilsyth castles
• Carved stonework from Kilsyth Castle
• Photographs, domestic and industrial artefacts
• Remains of a 15th-century tower house in the grounds
• Restored ice-house from around 1680
• Walled garden and garden café

Permanent exhibition

• Kilsyth local heritage collection – One room of objects, photographs and artefacts on local history, including items from Colzium and Kilsyth castles.

Founded

1979

Operated by

Culture North Lanarkshire

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

The estate and the museum are free to visit.

Accessibility

• Partially wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom
• 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

Access for visitors with disabilities is described for the house and visitor centre, and there is an accessible toilet. The museum room is on the second floor and no lift is mentioned, so ask the museums service before visiting. Accessibility enquiries: +44 1698 274590.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Playground / play area

The estate has a children’s adventure playground and nature walks. School workshops and holiday activities take place, and there is a family fun day on Doors Open Day.

Getting there & parking

The estate is at the east end of Kilsyth, off Stirling Road. Enter through the signposted stone gateway.

Amenities & dining

• Café

Garden café in the former Clock Theatre, part of the visitor centre, with a terrace overlooking the walled garden.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events
• Weddings / ceremonies

Colzium House can be booked for weddings, conferences and private parties; the museum may be opened for guests at such events.

Plan your visit