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McKechnie Institute

The McKechnie Institute

Girvan’s cultural hub, features a permanent display of artefacts highlighting the town’s heritage, the McKechnie Institute also hosts a regular programme of changing exhibitions. Visit the McKechnie, to see Girvan through time:

  • Geology, fossils, the history of Ailsa Craig and its granite
  • Maritime history and model ships
  • Victorian lounge and bedroom
  • Bronze Age Cinerary Urns dating 2100-1500 BC

Contact us

Address

The McKechnie Institute, 40 Dalrymple Street, Girvan KA26 9AE

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Key Features

  • Free entry
  • Open all year
  • Family-friendly
  • Garden
  • Accessibility access via Ailsa Street West
  • Accessible toilet

Opening Hours

Tuesday, Thursday & Friday
1pm – 4pm
Wednesday
1.30pm – 4.30pm
Saturday
10am – 4pm

Location map

Boules grouped together on gravel.

Looking for a fun, social, and relaxing outdoor activity?

Try your hand at Boules at the McKechnie Institute’s court in Girvan! Whether you’re a seasoned player or a total beginner, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a game with friends and family.

Free activity during opening hours. Boules are available from reception.

The McKechnie Institute is now on Bloomberg Connects

Download our new app and add to your experience when you visit.
Bloombergy Connects App

Try our Scavenger Hunt when you visit us

Discover interesting facts and explore The McKechnie's facinating collections.
Download our Scavenger Hunt

Exhibitions and Events

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A promotional graphic with a pink background for an event titled “Our Freedom Song and Exhibition.” Large red text reads “OUR FREEDOM SONG AND EXHIBITION.” Below, smaller text in blue says “29 NOV – 14 FEB, MCKECHNIE INSTITUTE, GIRVAN.” On the left, a logo reads “OUR FREEDOM: THEN & NOW” with the word “OUR” repeated vertically in red. On the right, there is a colorful hand-drawn artwork featuring the words “Oor Freedom Song” with a red flower and rainbow-colored stripes at the bottom.
Saturday 29 November 2025 - Saturday 14 February 2026
See listing for times
Free

Our Freedom Song and Exhibition

Our Freedom Song and Exhibition

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