Kilmartin Museum: Gateway to Scotland’s Prehistoric Heartland
Discover 12,000 years of history at Kilmartin Museum, where ancient artefacts meet the stunning prehistoric landscape of Kilmartin Glen.
Kilmartin Museum, located in the village of Kilmartin near Lochgilphead, Argyll, is a nationally significant archaeological museum showcasing over 12,000 years of human history. It connects visitors intimately with the rich prehistoric landscape of Kilmartin Glen, featuring ancient artefacts, interactive exhibits, and access to nearby monuments such as burial cairns and stone circles. The museum reopened in 2023 after a major redevelopment, offering accessible facilities and a café, making it a captivating cultural experience in western Scotland.
A brief summary to Kilmartin Museum
- Lochgilphead, Kilmartin, PA31 8RQ, GB
- +441546510278
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during March to October for full daily opening hours and access to all exhibitions.
- Use the self-guided walking trails from the museum to explore nearby prehistoric sites.
- Consider parking alternatives like Carnasserie Castle or Lady Glassary car parks during busy times.
- Take advantage of accessible facilities including parking, toilets, and lifts for a comfortable visit.
- Bring children to enjoy interactive activities like the Quest book and hands-on ancient crafts.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Car
Driving from Lochgilphead, the museum is approximately 8 miles north via local roads, taking about 15-20 minutes. On-site parking includes 39 spaces with 3 accessible bays, but during peak times consider parking at Carnasserie Castle or Lady Glassary car parks about 1 mile away, followed by a scenic 30-minute walk. No electric vehicle charging is available on site.
-
Bus
Local bus services connect Lochgilphead and Oban to Kilmartin village, with stops within walking distance of the museum. Bus journeys typically take 30-45 minutes from Lochgilphead. Check current timetables for service frequency. The village and museum are accessible by foot from the bus stop via mostly flat terrain.
-
Bicycle
Sustrans National Cycle Route 78 passes close to the museum, making it accessible by bike. Secure bike racks are available on site. Cycling from Lochgilphead takes roughly 45 minutes along quiet country roads and cycle paths, offering a scenic and eco-friendly travel option.
-
Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to the museum is feasible via mostly flat village paths. Walking from Carnasserie Castle or Lady Glassary car parks involves a pleasant 1.5-mile route through the countryside, suitable for most fitness levels and accessible for wheelchairs with assistance.
Kilmartin Museum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Kilmartin Museum
A Living Link to Scotland’s Ancient Past
Kilmartin Museum stands at the heart of one of Scotland’s richest prehistoric landscapes, Kilmartin Glen. This internationally important area contains over 800 historic monuments, including burial cairns, standing stones, stone circles, and rock art dating back more than 5,000 years. The museum itself houses a collection of more than 22,000 artefacts, many awarded Nationally Significant status, which tell the story of human settlement and culture in Argyll over the last 12,000 years. Visitors can examine ancient objects such as Bronze Age pottery, quartz tools, and early metalwork, all displayed close to the sites where they were discovered.Modern Redevelopment Enhancing Visitor Experience
After a £7.5 million redevelopment completed in 2023, Kilmartin Museum offers state-of-the-art audiovisual displays and special exhibition spaces that bring the past vividly to life. The redesign fosters a strong connection between the museum’s interior exhibits and the surrounding prehistoric landscape visible through large windows, creating a unique inside-to-outside experience. The museum also includes a renovated café, The Glen Bistro, operated independently, and accessible facilities such as lifts, accessible toilets, and baby changing rooms, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors.Exploring the Prehistoric Landscape Beyond the Museum
Kilmartin Museum serves as a gateway to the wider Glen, where visitors can embark on self-guided walks to explore ancient sites like the Linear Cairn Cemetery, Nether Largie South Chambered Cairn, and Temple Wood Stone Circle. These walks are mostly flat and accessible, with detailed maps and a popular guidebook available to enrich the experience. The museum also hosts volunteer-led guided walks that provide insightful interpretations of the landscape’s archaeological treasures, enhancing understanding of the cultural heritage embedded in the surrounding countryside.Practical Information and Accessibility
Open seasonally, the museum welcomes visitors seven days a week from March to October, 10am to 5pm, with shorter winter hours Wednesday to Sunday from November to December and February. It is closed from late December through January for winter maintenance. The site is fully accessible to those with mobility difficulties, featuring three designated accessible parking bays close to the entrance. While parking capacity has increased to 39 spaces, including accessible spots, visitors are encouraged to consider alternative parking nearby and enjoy scenic walks to reduce impact on the village. Dogs are not permitted inside, except for assistance animals.Immersive Educational and Family-Friendly Activities
The museum offers engaging activities for families, including a Quest activity book for children, hands-on experiences like grinding wheat on ancient quernstones and spinning wool, and digital reconstructions of prehistoric life. Artefacts on loan from national collections, such as a jet necklace from National Museums Scotland, enhance the displays. These interactive elements make Kilmartin Museum a stimulating and educational destination suitable for visitors of all ages.Connecting Past and Present in a Scenic Setting
Nestled in the scenic village of Kilmartin, the museum’s location offers panoramic views of the Glen’s rolling hills and ancient monuments. The blend of modern museum design with the timeless landscape creates a contemplative atmosphere where visitors can reflect on Scotland’s deep history. The museum’s commitment to sustainability and welcoming car-free visitors aligns with the tranquil and protected environment of the area, making it a mindful destination for cultural heritage and nature lovers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kilmartin Museum
0.0 km
Discover 12,000 years of history at Kilmartin Museum, where ancient artefacts meet the stunning prehistoric landscape of Kilmartin Glen.
Nether Largie Mid Cairn
0.7 km
Bronze Age burial cairn at the heart of Scotland's most significant prehistoric landscape, carved with rare axehead symbols.
About Argyll Walking Holidays
24.3 km
Explore Argyll’s stunning landscapes with expert guided walking holidays from Cairndow’s trusted outdoor activity organizer.
The Argyll Papers, Inveraray Castle
27.8 km
Explore over 700 years of Scottish history through the Campbell family’s extensive archive at Inveraray Castle.
McCaig's Tower & Battery Hill
31.4 km
Explore Oban’s iconic McCaig's Tower, a Colosseum-inspired folly with stunning views and tranquil gardens atop Battery Hill.
St John's Scottish Episcopal Cathedral : Oban
31.5 km
An unfinished masterpiece where Gothic ambition meets industrial-age engineering in Scotland's most unusual cathedral.
The Tinkers Heart
33.6 km
A heart-shaped quartz monument near Cairndow honoring the Scottish Traveller community’s heritage with stunning views over Loch Fyne.
Barcaldine Castle
42.3 km
Experience the haunting beauty and rich history of Barcaldine Castle, a 17th-century Scottish fortress overlooking Loch Creran.
Colonsay Whale
42.6 km
A wild coastal formation where Scotland's seabirds and marine life meet rugged Atlantic beauty.
Bute Museum
42.6 km
Discover the Isle of Bute's history and culture at Bute Museum, a captivating tourist attraction in Rothesay filled with intriguing exhibits.
Jura Boat Tours
44.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of the Isle of Jura with unforgettable boat tours.
The Whisky Island Gallery & Studio
44.1 km
Explore The Whisky Island Gallery & Studio for breathtaking art and photography that captures the spirit of the stunning Isle of Jura.
Jura Distillery
44.1 km
Explore the Jura Distillery on the Isle of Jura – a unique blend of whisky craftsmanship and breathtaking Scottish landscapes.
Isle of Jura Distillery Co
44.2 km
Explore the Isle of Jura Distillery: A Scottish gem where whisky craftsmanship meets stunning landscapes.
Ruvaal Lighthouse
45.2 km
Victorian lighthouse guarding the Sound of Islay, designed by the legendary Stevenson engineers in 1859.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nether Largie Standing Stones
1.4 km
Discover the ancient mystique of the Nether Largie Standing Stones, towering megaliths steeped in Neolithic mystery amidst Scotland’s lush Kilmartin Glen.
Dunchraigaig Cairn
2.1 km
Explore Scotland’s ancient Dunchraigaig Cairn, home to the earliest known prehistoric animal carvings and a unique Bronze Age burial site.
Dunadd Fort
5.3 km
Explore Dunadd Fort, ancient royal seat of Dál Riata, where history, legend, and panoramic views converge in the heart of Argyll’s Kilmartin Glen.
Moine Mhor National Nature Reserve
6.0 km
Explore Scotland’s ancient peat bog sanctuary, where wildlife thrives and 5,000 years of natural history unfold amid tranquil trails and wetlands.
Craignish Point
7.3 km
A tranquil coastal headland offering breathtaking panoramic views and rich wildlife on Scotland’s scenic Craignish peninsula.
Cairn from Auchoish
8.6 km
Explore the ancient chambered cairn of Auchoish near Lochgilphead, a serene window into Scotland’s Neolithic past.
Knapdale Scottish Beaver Trail
9.0 km
Discover Scotland’s pioneering beaver reintroduction project along an accessible trail through tranquil woodlands and lochs near Lochgilphead.
Heart of Argyll Tourism Alliance
11.1 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant community of the Heart of Argyll region.
Arduaine Garden
12.2 km
Explore Arduaine Garden’s exotic plants and stunning coastal views on Scotland’s west coast, a tranquil botanical haven nurtured by the Atlantic Drift.
The National Trust for Scotland
12.2 km
Discover the vibrant coastal beauty and exotic plant collections of Arduaine Garden overlooking the Sound of Jura near Oban.
Phare de Ruadh Sgeir
12.9 km
Experience the scenic beauty and historical significance of Phare de Ruadh Sgeir, a breathtaking lighthouse on Scotland's rugged coast.
Kinuachdrachd Harbour
12.9 km
A remote Hebridean bay at the end of Jura’s only road, where wild coastlines meet the Sound of Jura and the legendary Corryvreckan whirlpool.
Barnhill
13.0 km
Explore Barnhill, a historical landmark on the Isle of Jura, where nature meets literary history in a breathtaking Scottish landscape.
Carsaig Beach
14.8 km
A secluded Hebridean cove with dramatic arches, fossil-rich shores, and sweeping island views.
Crarae Garden
15.2 km
Discover Crarae Garden’s tranquil Himalayan-style woodland with waterfalls, champion trees, and vibrant seasonal blooms in scenic Argyll.
Essential places to dine
The Smiddy Bistro
11.1 km
A cozy bistro in Lochgilphead serving homemade cakes, hearty lunches, and excellent coffee with vegan and gluten-free options in a friendly atmosphere.
Restaurant at Loch Melfort Hotel
12.1 km
Savor inventive Scottish cuisine with stunning sea loch views at the acclaimed Restaurant at Loch Melfort Hotel in Arduaine.
The Tayvallich Inn
14.5 km
A charming seafood inn nestled on Loch Sween’s shores, blending local flavors with stunning harbour views and warm Scottish hospitality.
The Oystercatcher
17.3 km
A charming seafood restaurant on Loch Fyne’s shore, serving fresh local catches in a relaxed, scenic setting in Otter Ferry.
Inver Restaurant & Rooms
17.6 km
Discover a refined Scottish dining experience with fresh local ingredients and cozy rooms on the tranquil shores of Loch Fyne.
Tigh An Truish
21.4 km
Charming inn and acclaimed restaurant with stunning views of the iconic Clachan Bridge, offering exquisite local cuisine and cozy accommodations.
The Barn Bar
27.2 km
A rustic country pub at Cologin offering seasonal Scottish fare, cozy log fires, and lively local music near Oban.
Samphire
27.7 km
Exquisite fresh seafood in a charming historic setting, Samphire offers a refined dining experience in the heart of Inveraray.
Cottage Restaurant
27.8 km
Cozy and charming dining in Inveraray with fresh local ingredients and warm, attentive service on Main Street West.
Ocho Inveraray
27.9 km
Unpretentious, flavorful dining in the heart of historic Inveraray with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Anchorage Bistro
30.3 km
Experience fresh Scottish seafood in a cozy bistro setting on Tarbert’s charming Harbour Street, where local flavors meet modern cuisine.
Marine Bistro
30.4 km
Experience fresh local cuisine with stunning views at Marine Bistro in Tarbert - a must-visit culinary destination.
Food From Argyll at the Pier
31.0 km
A vibrant café at Oban’s ferry terminal serving fresh, locally sourced Argyll produce with stunning waterfront views.
Taste of Argyll Kitchen
31.2 km
Cozy Scottish kitchen in Oban serving fresh, local dishes with a creative touch and warm hospitality.
EE-USK
31.3 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served with panoramic harbor views on Oban’s historic North Pier.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ardfern Village Store
6.1 km
Charming village store offering local Scottish produce, essentials, and warm hospitality in the heart of Ardfern near Lochgilphead.
Bluestone Gift Shop
11.1 km
A charming independent gift shop in Lochgilphead, offering Scottish-made cards, jewellery, and souvenirs with a personal touch.
The Square Peg Gift Shops
11.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local Scottish charm at The Square Peg, Lochgilphead’s beloved creative gift shop in Colchester Square.
Argyll Gift Co
11.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and handmade treasures at Argyll Gift Co in Lochgilphead, your gateway to local culture and craftsmanship.
Tayvallich Village Shop
14.9 km
A welcoming village store offering local flavors and essentials in the heart of scenic Tayvallich, Scotland.
Bonnie Argyll - Bespoke gifts and crafts from Scotland
27.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish craftsmanship and bespoke gifts in the heart of historic Inveraray at Bonnie Argyll.
Sid’s Vintage
27.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Inveraray at Sid’s Vintage, where every piece tells a story.
The House Of Scotland
27.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and craftsmanship in the heart of Inveraray’s historic Main Street.
The Argyll Gift Co
30.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique local gifts in the cozy charm of Tarbert’s Argyll Gift Co.
Kames Village Store
30.8 km
A friendly, well-stocked village store in scenic Kames, offering fresh produce and local specialties amid coastal charm.
Made in Argyll
31.1 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery, ceramics, textiles and art from Argyll’s makers in a bright, harbour-side craft shop in Oban.
McCaig's Warehouse
31.1 km
Discover quality Scottish clothing and unique gifts at McCaig's Warehouse, a welcoming boutique nestled in Oban’s Heritage Centre.
Highland Experience
31.2 km
Explore Highland Experience in Oban for unique Scottish clothing and accessories that reflect the rich culture and craftsmanship of the Highlands.
The Modern Croft
31.3 km
A bright, contemporary homewares and gift shop in Oban, showcasing beautiful craft and design from Scotland and beyond.
Bolliwood to the Smiddy
31.4 km
A warm, welcoming gift shop in Oban filled with handcrafted Scottish souvenirs and local crafts – perfect for meaningful keepsakes after exploring the coast.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Anderson Lounge
8.1 km
A cozy, rustic bar in Cairnbaan offering local craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere for travelers exploring the Scottish Highlands.
The Argyll Inn
11.4 km
A cozy local bar in Lochgilphead offering traditional Scottish hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere every day from noon to late evening.
The Oyster Bar
20.5 km
A charming seafood haven in historic Ellenabeich, offering fresh oysters, scenic coastal views, and warm Scottish hospitality.
The Clachan Bar
26.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish village hospitality and cozy charm at The Clachan Bar in picturesque Strachur.
The Corner House
30.4 km
A cozy and lively pub on Tarbert’s Harbour Street, famed for warm welcomes, quality drinks, and a true taste of Scottish coastal life.
Lorne Bar
31.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality, fresh local seafood, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Oban at The Lorne Bar.
Cellar Bar
31.4 km
Cozy and traditional Scottish pub on Oban’s waterfront, famed for local whiskies, live music, and warm hospitality.
The Tartan Tavern
31.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and traditional charm at The Tartan Tavern, a cozy and lively pub in the heart of Oban.
Markie Dans
31.7 km
Family-run pub in Oban offering vast single malts, hearty food, live music, and stunning bay views in a welcoming, lively atmosphere.
The Anchor Tavern & Hub
39.5 km
A welcoming community-owned pub and social hub with scenic coastal views in the heart of Port Bannatyne, Isle of Bute.
Craignure Inn
39.5 km
A cozy, dog-friendly pub and inn in Craignure offering hearty fare, comfortable rooms, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Mull.
Argyll’s Social Club
40.0 km
Experience the lively heart of Dunoon’s social scene at Argyll’s Social Club, where local culture and entertainment come alive.
The Burgh Bar
40.3 km
Experience Dunoon’s vibrant social scene with local ales, lively events, and welcoming charm at The Burgh Bar on Queen Street.
Sinbad's
40.4 km
A lively, affordable pub in Dunoon with music, pool, and friendly locals in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
The Clansman Bar
40.4 km
A vibrant and welcoming pub in Dunoon, famed for its real ales, sunny beer garden, and lively weekend atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Jura Brewery
43.3 km
Discover Jura Brewery: A Craft Beer Experience in the Heart of the Isle of Jura, Where Tradition Meets Nature's Bounty.
Isle of Mull Rugby Club
44.5 km
Discover the Isle of Mull Rugby Club: A vibrant community hub where sports and local culture come together amidst stunning Scottish scenery.
Word Up
49.4 km
Experience Greenock's revitalized nightlife at Word Up, a modern nightclub with vibrant energy and a welcoming atmosphere.
Red
50.0 km
Experience Greenock’s vibrant nightlife at Red Nightclub, where intimate vibes meet lively dance floors and affordable fun every weekend.
Desire Nightclub
57.8 km
Experience Balloch’s vibrant nightlife at Desire Nightclub, where energetic music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable evenings.
Macgochans
64.9 km
Experience the essence of Tobermory at Macgochans, where delightful seafood meets vibrant Scottish hospitality in a stunning waterfront setting.
DUFFIE'S BAR
65.0 km
Discover the cozy ambiance of Duffie's Bar in Bowmore, Isle of Islay; a perfect spot for whisky lovers and relaxation amidst beautiful surroundings.
The Lochside Hotel & Restaurant
65.0 km
Discover the beauty and flavors of the Isle of Islay at The Lochside Hotel & Restaurant, where comfort meets local charm in a stunning setting.
Mishnish
65.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Mishnish, the heart of Tobermory's bar and restaurant scene, perfect for music lovers and foodies alike.
MacDonald Arms Hotel
65.1 km
Discover the warm hospitality and local flavors at MacDonald Arms Hotel, a charming pub in Tobermory, Isle of Mull.
Auld Mull Bar
65.1 km
Experience the warmth of Auld Mull Bar in Tobermory - a perfect blend of local drinks, cuisine, and stunning harbor views on the Isle of Mull.
Cruize Bar Brasserie
65.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at Cruize Bar Brasserie in Auchrannie Resort, featuring a diverse menu for families and travelers in a stunning setting.
Edgewater
65.3 km
Experience the essence of Scottish hospitality at Edgewater, a cozy pub in Brodick offering local beers, whiskies, and stunning coastal views.
Ormidale Hotel
65.4 km
Charming family-run Victorian hotel and pub with en suite rooms, lively bar, and scenic views on the Isle of Arran.
Bellachroy Hotel
66.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pub charm, cozy hotel comfort, and delightful dining at Bellachroy Hotel on the Isle of Mull.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
