Kilmartin Museum

Location

About

Kilmartin Museum in Kilmartin, Scotland is a must-visit destination for any tourist interested in history, archaeology, and Scottish heritage. The museum is situated in the heart of the ancient valley of Kilmartin, which is famous for its rich archaeological heritage and has been called "the valley of the kings."

The museum is housed in a modern building that was designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape. Inside, visitors will find a wealth of exhibits that tell the story of the people who have lived in Kilmartin and the surrounding area over the past 5,000 years. The museum's collection includes a range of artifacts, from prehistoric stone tools to medieval sculptures and everything in between.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of carved stones, which are some of the finest examples of early Christian art in Scotland. The stones date from the 5th to the 11th centuries and are adorned with intricate carvings that tell stories of the lives and beliefs of the people who created them.

Another must-see exhibit is the reconstruction of a burial cist, which gives visitors a glimpse into the burial practices of the people who lived in Kilmartin thousands of years ago. The cist is made from local stone and is a faithful reproduction of a burial chamber that was discovered in the area.

The museum also houses a number of interactive exhibits that are sure to engage visitors of all ages. There is a virtual reality experience that allows visitors to explore a prehistoric landscape, a hands-on activity area where visitors can try their hand at making stone tools and pottery, and a touch-screen exhibit that provides information on the local flora and fauna.

In addition to its indoor exhibits, the museum also has an extensive outdoor display that includes standing stones, cairns, and other ancient structures. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the outdoor display, which provides a fascinating insight into the lives and beliefs of the people who lived in Kilmartin in ancient times.

Overall, Kilmartin Museum is a must-visit destination for any tourist interested in history and archaeology. The museum's collection of artifacts and exhibits provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the people who have lived in Kilmartin and the surrounding area over the past 5,000 years. Whether you're a history buff or simply interested in Scottish heritage, Kilmartin Museum is definitely worth a visit.

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Things to do nearby

Kilmartin Museum, located in the small village of Kilmartin in western Scotland, is an excellent destination for tourists who are interested in ancient history, archaeology, and culture. The museum is known for its impressive collection of prehistoric artifacts and is situated in an area that is rich with ancient monuments and historical sites. In this article, we will explore some of the best places to visit and things to do in the vicinity of Kilmartin Museum.

1. Visit the Kilmartin Glen
Kilmartin Glen is an area that is rich with prehistoric sites and monuments, including standing stones, burial cairns, and stone circles. The glen is situated just a short distance from the museum and is an excellent place to explore on foot. Visitors can take a self-guided walk along the glen and see some of the most impressive prehistoric monuments in Scotland.

2. Explore the Dunadd Fort
Dunadd Fort is an ancient hill fort that is situated just a few miles from Kilmartin Museum. The fort is believed to have been the capital of the ancient kingdom of Dalriada and is known for its impressive rock carvings and other ancient artifacts. Visitors can climb to the top of the hill and explore the fort's many chambers and passageways.

3. Walk along the Crinan Canal
The Crinan Canal is a beautiful waterway that runs from the village of Crinan to Ardrishaig. The canal is lined with beautiful scenery and is an excellent place to go for a walk or a cycle ride. Visitors can also take a boat trip along the canal and see some of the local wildlife, including seals and otters.

4. Visit the Argyll Islands
The Argyll Islands are a group of islands that are situated off the west coast of Scotland. The islands are known for their beautiful scenery, rugged coastlines, and historic sites. Visitors can take a ferry from the nearby town of Oban and explore some of the islands' many attractions, including castles, museums, and ancient ruins.

5. Go to Inveraray Castle
Inveraray Castle is a beautiful castle that is situated on the shores of Loch Fyne. The castle is known for its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens, and is a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and see some of the many artifacts and historical items that are on display.

6. Explore the Oban Distillery
The Oban Distillery is one of Scotland's oldest and most famous distilleries. Visitors can take a guided tour of the distillery and see how whisky is made, and also sample some of the distillery's most famous whiskies.

7. Visit the Corryvreckan Whirlpool
The Corryvreckan Whirlpool is one of Scotland's most famous natural attractions. The whirlpool is located just off the coast of the island of Jura and is caused by the strong tidal currents that flow through the area. Visitors can take a boat trip to see the whirlpool up close and experience the power of nature.

In conclusion, Kilmartin Museum and its surroundings offer a wealth of attractions and activities for tourists who are interested in ancient history, culture, and the great outdoors. Whether you want to explore ancient monuments, beautiful castles, or simply take a walk along the canal, there is something for everyone in this beautiful part of Scotland. So why not plan a visit today and see for yourself what makes Kilmartin and its surroundings such a special place?