Five of Scotland’s more unusual museums

SCOTLAND’S many museums and exhibitions offer a well-preserved window into the past, to better illuminate our understanding of our country’s history.

But who would have thought that fashion, firefighting and bagpiping would be so important as to merit their own dedicated museums? Sunnah Khan investigates the more unusual collections to be found across Scotland

National Museum of Costume

Shambellie House New Abbey

Dumfries

0300 123 6789

Strut through a century of fashion with a visit to the National Museum of Costume’s offering of style through the ages, from the Victorian era to the 20th century. Witness changing trends, be inspired by innovative design and even sign up for a course in personal presentation. Aptly situated in Shambellie House, a luxurious Victorian country pile, this is a perfect day out for fashion lovers of all ages.

Did you know?

Charles Stewart, the great grandson of the original owner of Shambellie House, loaned Shambellie House to the National Museums of Scotland to be used as a Museum of Costume. By the time Stewart donated his own collection, it consisted of over six thousand objects spanning three centuries.

Edinburgh Museum of Childhood

42 High Street

Royal Mile

Edinburgh

0131 529 4142

The Museum of Childhood offers up a nostalgic history of childhood, displaying toys and games from across many generations, from old teddy bears to Star Wars action figures. The museum also explores other aspects of growing up, such as the ever-evolving outfits of schoolchildren, and how the nature of holidays has changed as the times have moved on.

Did you know?

The Stanbrig Eorls dolls house is a firm favourite with visitors. Its 21 rooms contain over 2,000 items, from tiny towels in the bathroom to skittles in the nursery.

Museum of Fire

76-78 Lauriston Place

Edinburgh

0131 6597285

Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town and, fittingly, at the headquarters of the Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade, the museum offers a history of the first municipal fire brigade in Europe and fire fighting in Edinburgh between 1824 and the 1940s. The museum houses a range of fire engines dating from 1806: maunual, horse-drawn, steam and motorised pumps, along with many other fire-related items dating back to the 15th century.

Did you know?

The Edinburgh Fire Establishment was formed in 1824 under James Braidwood, a man who pioneered a scientific approach to fire fighting and placed great emphasis on training for his firefighters.

Tolbooth Prison

Castle Street

Aberdeen

01224 621167

A visit to the Tolbooth prison transports visitors back in time to life in a 17th century Scottish gaol. Explore darkened cells that echo with the cries of prisoners, witness the horror of the guillotine and and enjoy a guided tour where actors bringing the past back to life. A love of history and the macabre is sure to be satisfied.

Did you know?

The original building on the site of the museum was built in 1393 as an area for collecting tolls for goods that were bought and sold. Years later, its role changed to that of a holding place for prisoners about to be tried at the court. This then developed into a general prison.

The Museum of Piping at The National Piping Centre

30-34 McPhater Street

Glasgow

0141 353 5551

A love of all things Scottish and musical makes this museum a must-visit. From bagpipe manufacture to the printing of music, the museum boasts 300 years of piping heritage and is surely one of the most comprehensive of its kind in the world. Prepare to give your lungs a workout and have a go yourself at belting out a tune.

Did you know?

One of the outstanding items on view is the chanter of Iain Dall (Blind John) MacKay (fl 1650-1740), the oldest surviving chanter of the Highland bagpipe anywhere in the world.