Museum of the Cumbraes
Free local museum in Garrison House, Millport, on the Isle of Cumbrae, covering island history from prehistoric burials to the Second World War.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The museum is in Garrison House in Millport, the main town of the Isle of Cumbrae, and is run as part of North Ayrshire’s heritage service. The building also holds a public library and a café.
The permanent display follows the story of the island from burial cists about 4,000 years old to the smugglers of the 18th century. It also covers the explorer Andrew Goldie and the part Millport played in the Second World War. A foyer display deals with the Glasgow-Cumbrae Benevolent Society, island maps, objects from the Women’s Lifeboat Guild and the 1st Argyll and Bute Volunteers. Temporary exhibitions are shown in the museum and change every few months.
Highlights
- Permanent display on Cumbrae from prehistory to the 18th century
- Story of the explorer Andrew Goldie
- Millport in the Second World War
- Foyer display on island societies, maps and lifeboat history
Permanent exhibition
- History of the Cumbraes – Island history from 4,000-year-old burial cists to 18th-century smugglers, with the explorer Andrew Goldie and Millport in the Second World War.
- Founded
- 1978
- Operated by
- North Ayrshire Heritage
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Entry is free and no booking is required.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom
- Accessible parking: no information
- 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 museum is on one level and has a ramp at the entrance. Free accessible toilets are available.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
By public transit
CalMac ferry from Largs to Cumbrae, about 10 minutes. From the ferry slip it is a 10-minute bus ride to Millport, or you can drive.
By car
Free parking
Free parking in Millport, including at Garrison House.
The Millport website has bus information.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Café
The café in Garrison House serves food and drink seven days a week from 10:00 to 16:00. The building also has a large public library.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
