Home
The 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:

  • Artworks by Alex Cubie and William Muir
  • Geology, fossils, the history of Ailsa Craig and its granite
  • Maritime history and model ships
  • Free family engagement space and activities – available during opening hours
  • Victorian lounge and bedroom
Discover What's On

Contact us

Address

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

Follow us

X-twitter Facebook Instagram

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

McKechnie Explorers

Journey through The McKechnie Institute and discover fun facts and interesting objects along the way.
Download the Explorers booklet

Exhibitions and Events

Add To Favourites
A promotional image for “The McKechnie Institute Explorers,” featuring a child in a denim jacket standing in front of a colourful banner with the programme’s name and a magnifying glass graphic. Behind the banner is the interior of a museum, with display cases, architectural details, and framed items visible.
See listing for times
Free

The McKechnie Institute Explorers

The McKechnie Institute Explorers
Add To Favourites
Morse code device on top of a paper worksheet.
21 February - 16 May 2026
See listing for opening times
Free

Lighthouse Activities at The McKechnie Institute

Lighthouse Activities at The McKechnie Institute
Add To Favourites
A coastal scene featuring a white lighthouse complex at the base of a steep, rocky hillside. The buildings sit on a narrow strip of land beside the sea, with one main lighthouse tower and several adjoining structures. Overlaid text reads: “McKechnie Institute Museum & Gallery. Lighthouses: Keepers of the Craig. 21 Feb – 16 May 2026.
Saturday 21 February - Saturday 16 May 2026
See listing for times
Free

Lighthouses: Keepers of the Craig

Lighthouses: Keepers of the Craig
Add To Favourites
A group of small, anthropomorphic animal figurines, including a rabbit in yellow overalls, a mouse in a green dress with lace trim, and a brown rodent wearing a blue hat, stand in front of miniature easels displaying artwork. The paintings appear to be classic oil paintings featuring a man painting and a white horse. Three small fuzzy yellow chicks are positioned nearby on a checkered fabric surface, resembling an art exhibition setting. The scene is carefully arranged with warm lighting, creating a whimsical and charming atmosphere.
3 - 19 April 2026
See listing for opening times
Free

Easter Eggshibition Trail - McKechnie Institute

Easter Eggshibition Trail – McKechnie Institute
Add To Favourites
Black and white image of lady in victorian dress on a beach, next to a coloured image with a woman in red jacket.
11 - 18 April 2026
See listing for opening times
Free

Artist in Residence Claudia Zeiske

Artist in Residence Claudia Zeiske
Add To Favourites
Black and White image of a lighthouse on an island.
Saturday 25 April 2026
11am - 12 noon
Free

Ailsa Craig and Beyond – Talk by Dr M Barry Miller

Ailsa Craig and Beyond – Talk by Dr M Barry Miller
Add To Favourites
Our Freedom (dsa 3)
14 July - 7 August 2026
See listing for opening times
Free

Our Freedom: Then and Now

Our Freedom: Then and Now

Subscribe to our mailing list

Join our mailing list for Destination South Ayrshire news, inspiration and events.
Subscribe

Copyright © 2026 Destination South Ayrshire. Provided by South Ayrshire Council.