Kinneil Museum
Museum in the former stable block of Kinneil House in Bo'ness on the Antonine Wall, now mainly closed during a change of management.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
Kinneil Museum is housed in the former stable block of Kinneil House, a sixteenth-century house of the Hamilton family on the Kinneil estate above Bo'ness. It told the story of Bo'ness and Kinneil and of the Roman Antonine Wall, which runs through the estate and is part of a World Heritage Site. The estate also contains a Roman fortlet.
The museum was run by Falkirk Community Trust on behalf of Falkirk Council and had an audio-visual show and a small shop. Falkirk Council decided to give up the building. Historic Environment Scotland, which looks after Kinneil House, was due to take over management from 13 June 2026.
During a transitional period the museum building is undergoing alterations and is mainly closed. Decisions are still being made about which objects stay on display and which move to the council's museum store. Kinneil House, where James Watt developed his first engine in a workshop nearby, opens for guided tours on most Saturdays from April to September.
Highlights
- Roman Antonine Wall and Roman fortlet in the estate
- Kinneil House, a sixteenth-century house of the Hamilton family
- James Watt's engine workshop beside the house
- Estate and nature reserve on the John Muir Way
- Founded
- 1977
- Operated by
- Falkirk Council / Historic Environment Scotland
Admission & discounts
The museum is mainly closed while management changes; new opening arrangements have not yet been announced.
Accessibility
The museum is mainly closed while management changes; new opening arrangements have not yet been announced.
Kids & families
The museum is mainly closed while management changes; new opening arrangements have not yet been announced.
Getting there & parking
Kinneil Estate lies on the John Muir Way. Parking at Kinneil House is limited.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The museum is mainly closed while management changes; new opening arrangements have not yet been announced.
Events & venue rental
The museum is mainly closed while management changes; new opening arrangements have not yet been announced.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Entry to Kinneil House is by pre-booked guided tour only. The grounds and the Roman fortlet can be visited free of charge. |
