Baird Institute
Free museum in a Scottish Baronial building in Cumnock with Mauchline ware, Cumnock pottery and a room on Keir Hardie.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Baird Institute opened in 1891 as a gift to the people of Cumnock. Robert Ingram designed it in the Scottish Baronial style, using pink sandstone from Mauchline and Auchinleck, and it is now run as a cultural and community venue by East Ayrshire Leisure.
The museum collection includes Mauchline ware, which is of international importance, and rare examples of Cumnock pottery. There is also a wide range of material on the history of Cumnock and the Doon Valley, from historic photographs, archives, books, maps and newspapers to audio-visual items.
One room is dedicated to James Keir Hardie, the founder of the Labour Party, and displays many of his personal belongings. The building also hosts contemporary art exhibitions, workshops and heritage events.
Highlights
- Mauchline ware collection of international importance
- Rare Cumnock pottery
- Room dedicated to Keir Hardie with his belongings
- History of Cumnock and the Doon Valley
- Scottish Baronial building from 1891
Permanent exhibitions
- Mauchline ware and Cumnock pottery – Mauchline ware, regarded as of international importance, alongside rare Cumnock pottery.
- Keir Hardie room – A room about James Keir Hardie, founder of the Labour Party, with many of his personal belongings.
- History of Cumnock and the Doon Valley – Photographs, archives, books, maps, newspapers and audio-visual material on the local area.
- Founded
- 1891
- Operated by
- East Ayrshire Leisure
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Admission is free.
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 venue lists wheelchair access and disabled toilet facilities.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
By car
Parking available
Car parking is available nearby.
Amenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| School programs | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | School groups, community groups and other visitors are welcome by appointment. |
