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

Contact us

Address

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

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Key Features

Opening Hours

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

Location map

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.

Now on display - Bronze Age Cinerary Urns

We are delighted to announce that the Bronze Age cinerary urns are back on display. The urns were excavated at Coalpots Road, Girvan (now known as Urnfield), in 1961 and date to approximately 2100-1500BC.

The McKechnie Institute is now on Bloomberg Connects

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

The McKechnie Explorers

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

Exhibitions and Events

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
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
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
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

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