Ellenabeich Heritage Centre

About the museum

The Slate Islands Heritage Trust was formed in 1999 as a charity to record and present the heritage of the Slate Islands of Argyll. It opened the Ellenabeich Heritage Centre in 2000 in a former slate quarryman's cottage in the village of Ellenabeich on Seil. The centre works closely with the museum on the neighbouring island of Easdale.

The displays cover social and industrial life in the slate communities. They include living conditions in the 19th century, the quarry workings, public health, and the flora, fauna and geology of the area, with wildlife and otter taxidermy. Slate-working tools, a doctor's case and items on domestic life, photography and medicine are among the objects.

The trust also keeps archives of original papers, documents, census returns and rent rolls, which help with family-history research. Records of people in the slate industry from the 18th to the 20th centuries are held, and most archive material can be viewed online. School parties and other groups can visit by appointment.

Highlights

• Displays on the slate quarrying industry
• Life in the 19th century, including public health
• Local flora, fauna and geology
• Archives and census records for family-history research

Permanent exhibition

• Slate industry and village life – Displays on life in the 19th century, the quarry workings, public health, local wildlife and the geology of the Slate Islands, with slate-working tools and archives.

Founded

2000

Operated by

Slate Islands Heritage Trust

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Entry is free.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: not available
• Elevator: not available
• Accessible restroom: no information
• 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 in a former slate quarryman's cottage. There is one step at the entrance, the displays are on one level, and the entrance is too small for wheelchair access.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The foot ferry to Easdale Island leaves from Ellenabeich.

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

Souvenirs, cards, books and gifts are sold on site, and some gifts can be bought online. Public toilets are in the village and the public car park is a short walk away.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit