Bachelors' Club, Tarbolton: Robert Burns’ Historic Debating Society
Step into the 17th-century thatched house where Robert Burns and friends debated, danced, and shaped Scottish literary history.
The Bachelors' Club in Tarbolton is a 17th-century thatched stone building where Robert Burns co-founded a men-only debating society. Now a National Trust for Scotland museum, it offers a rare glimpse into 18th-century male social life, featuring an authentically restored domestic interior downstairs and the original club meeting room upstairs. Visitors experience the atmosphere where Burns debated, danced, and socialized, surrounded by period furnishings and evocative historical details.
A brief summary to Bachelors' Club
- Sandgate St, Tarbolton, KA5 5RB, GB
- +441292541940
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during opening hours Friday to Tuesday, 12pm to 4pm, especially in the off-peak seasons for a quieter experience.
- Take time to explore both floors: the ground floor’s domestic interior and the upstairs debating room where Burns and his peers met.
- Listen closely to the guided tours, which bring the club’s history and Robert Burns’ youthful debates vividly to life.
- Look out for the original '10 Rules of Membership' and Burns’ poems displayed in the upstairs room.
- Appreciate the thatched roof’s historical importance as part of Scotland’s architectural heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service from Ayr or Kilmarnock to Tarbolton, with a journey time of approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Buses run several times daily but check schedules for seasonal variations. From the bus stop, the Bachelors' Club is a short walk through the village. No direct parking at the site.
-
Car
Driving from Ayr or Kilmarnock takes about 20 minutes via local roads. Limited parking is available near Sandgate Street; some spaces may require a short walk. The village roads are narrow, so parking early is advised during busy periods.
-
Taxi
Local taxi services can provide direct transport to the Bachelors' Club from Ayr, Kilmarnock, or nearby towns, typically within 15 to 25 minutes. This option offers flexible timing but is more costly, with fares generally ranging from £10 to £20.
Bachelors' Club location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bachelors' Club
A Historic Hub of Social and Literary Life
The Bachelors' Club, nestled in the farming village of Tarbolton, Ayrshire, is a remarkable 17th-century thatched stone building steeped in history. This curious red-shuttered house is best known as the place where Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, co-founded the Tarbolton Bachelors' Club—a men-only debating society that played a formative role in his early adult life. The club provided Burns and his friends with a platform to debate politics, philosophy, education, and personal dilemmas, reflecting the intellectual curiosity and social dynamics of the time.Authentic Restoration and Period Atmosphere
The building is carefully restored to evoke the 18th century, with the ground floor recreating the domestic living space of John Richard, an alehouse owner, and his family. Visitors can immerse themselves in the quiet ambiance of the period, where the creak of floorboards and ticking clocks transport you back in time. Upstairs, accessed via an external staircase, lies the large meeting room where Burns and his fellow bachelors gathered. This open space, once divided, now offers a vivid setting for imagining the lively debates and dances that took place here.Robert Burns’ Connection and Legacy
Beyond being a social club, the Bachelors' Club was a crucible for Burns’ development as a thinker, speaker, and cultural figure. Here he learned to dance, became a Freemason, and honed his debating skills. The walls display images and poems by Burns, alongside the club’s original '10 Rules of Membership,' offering insight into the values and humor of the group. This site preserves a unique chapter of Burns’ life, distinct from his childhood home, highlighting his youthful energy and intellectual engagement.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The building’s thatched roof is one of only about 200 remaining in Scotland, representing a traditional, renewable roofing method that contributes to the site’s historic character. The National Trust for Scotland is actively preserving this heritage, including plans for phased rethatching to maintain the building’s integrity. The Bachelors' Club stands not only as a monument to Burns but also as a rare example of rural 17th-century architecture adapted for social and cultural use.Visitor Experience and Interpretation
Visitors typically begin their tour on the ground floor, absorbing the domestic setting and imagining everyday life in the 18th century. The upstairs room invites reflection on the spirited discussions that shaped Burns’ worldview. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, animating the history with stories and anecdotes that bring the club to life. The peaceful village setting adds to the contemplative mood, making it a must-visit for fans of Burns and those interested in Scottish cultural heritage.Seasonal Access and Practical Details
The Bachelors' Club operates seasonally, generally open Friday to Tuesday from midday to 4 pm during the autumn and winter months, with closures in spring and summer. Entry fees are modest, with discounts for concessions and families. The site is accessible and offers a quiet, intimate atmosphere far removed from busier tourist spots, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the historical significance and ambiance of this unique location.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wallace's Monument, Ayrshire “Burnweil”
3.4 km
A proud Ayrshire landmark honoring William Wallace, Scotland’s legendary hero of independence and bravery.
Ayr Citadel
11.0 km
Explore Ayr Citadel, a 17th-century hexagonal fortress by the sea, rich in history and coastal charm.
Trinity Church (Former)
16.0 km
A majestic Gothic Revival landmark showcasing Victorian ecclesiastical architecture and Irvine’s rich religious heritage.
Spirit of Scotland Monument
20.9 km
A towering steel silhouette honoring William Wallace and Scotland’s historic battles at Loudoun Hill, embodying the nation’s enduring spirit.
Strathaven Castle
32.2 km
Discover the haunting ruins of Strathaven Castle, a 15th-century fortress steeped in history, legend, and Scottish heritage.
Original site of Loch Doon Castle
32.9 km
Discover the relocated medieval stronghold of Loch Doon Castle, a polygonal fortress with deep ties to Robert the Bruce and Scottish history.
Craigie Linn (Waterfall)
33.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Craigie Linn Waterfall, a serene natural wonder nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Paisley, Scotland.
Calderglen Country Park and Zoo
33.8 km
Explore the natural beauty and wildlife of Calderglen Country Park and Zoo, a perfect destination for families and nature enthusiasts in Glasgow.
Hunterston Castle
33.9 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Hunterston Castle, a beautiful landmark in Scotland's scenic West Kilbride.
Clochoderick Stone
34.5 km
Discover the ancient Clochoderick Stone, a towering glacial erratic steeped in history and Scottish folklore near Johnstone.
Johnstone Castle
35.0 km
Explore the historic remnants of Johnstone Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house transformed into a neo-Gothic mansion and now a protected landmark.
Holmwood House
35.9 km
Discover the architectural masterpiece of Holmwood House, a must-visit museum in Glasgow surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich history.
Newlands Park
36.2 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Newlands Park, Glasgow's serene green space perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Weaver's Cottage
36.2 km
Explore Scotland's textile heritage at Weaver's Cottage, a charming museum in Kilbarchan showcasing traditional handloom weaving.
Johnstone History Museum
36.3 km
Explore the captivating history of Johnstone at the Johnstone History Museum, a unique local treasure filled with engaging artifacts and stories of the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Highland Mary's Monument
2.9 km
A poignant monument in Ayrshire marking the heartfelt farewell of Robert Burns and Highland Mary by the River Ayr.
Peden's Cove
3.3 km
A serene riverside haven in Failford steeped in Covenanter history and natural beauty, perfect for reflection and scenic walks.
Craigie Castle
5.0 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Craigie Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in Wallace heritage and architectural grandeur near Kilmarnock.
Burns House Museum
6.7 km
Discover the intimate home and legacy of Robert Burns and Jean Armour in the heart of historic Mauchline.
Kingencleugh Castle
7.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Kingencleugh Castle, a historic Campbell residence nestled in Mauchline’s scenic glen with rich Reformation ties.
Wallace's Cave Auchinleck
7.8 km
Discover the thrilling cliffside grotto of Wallace's Cave nestled in the scenic Lugar Gorge within historic Auchinleck Estate.
Prestwick Golf Club
8.2 km
Historic Prestwick Golf Club, birthplace of The Open Championship and a timeless links challenge on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast.
Fullarton Fairy Trail
9.1 km
Discover the enchanting Fullarton Fairy Trail in Troon—a magical woodland walk filled with fairy doors, wooden carvings, and family-friendly play areas.
Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
9.9 km
Explore the medieval hilltop fortress of Dundonald Castle, where Scottish royal history meets scenic coastal views and engaging visitor experiences.
Craigie Park
10.0 km
A serene and vibrant green haven in Ayr, Craigie Park invites you to unwind amidst nature and community spirit.
Carnegie Library
10.5 km
Historic Edwardian Renaissance library in Ayr, blending rich heritage with vibrant community learning and cultural activities.
Auld Kirk Of Ayr
10.6 km
Discover Ayr’s historic Auld Kirk, a living church steeped in centuries of Scottish history and rich cultural heritage.
Dick Institute
10.6 km
A historic cultural hub in Kilmarnock featuring Ayrshire’s largest museum, gallery, and library with free admission and vibrant community programs.
Ayr Central
10.7 km
Ayr Central blends top fashion brands, speciality shops, and cosy cafes under one canopy roof in the heart of Ayr’s vibrant town centre.
Loudoun Hall
10.7 km
Discover Ayr’s oldest house, a beautifully preserved 16th-century merchant’s townhouse with royal history and stunning medieval architecture.
Essential places to dine
The ClockTower
6.1 km
A charming restaurant nestled in historic Auchincruive Estate, offering hearty meals and a cozy atmosphere in Ayr’s scenic countryside.
The Waterfront At Coyle Water Fishery - Restaurant and Cafe Ayrshire
7.6 km
A charming Ayrshire fishery restaurant offering fresh local seafood, scenic lake views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Coylton Arms
8.0 km
Cozy family-run gastropub in Ayrshire serving hearty Scottish dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality.
The Vine
8.2 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Prestwick, serving seasonal dishes and cocktails from day to late night.
The Long House
10.1 km
A stylish and welcoming modern British restaurant and bar with a dog-friendly garden in the heart of Kilmarnock.
Blues Restaurant
10.2 km
Modern European dining with local Ayrshire flavors in a stylish setting at The Park Hotel, Kilmarnock’s premier restaurant.
The Tam O'Shanter Inn
10.7 km
Ayr’s oldest pub blending historic Scottish charm with hearty traditional fare, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Arthur Street Kitchen (ASK)
10.8 km
A vibrant British cuisine restaurant in Ayr offering hearty dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great selection of wines and cocktails at moderate prices.
Helen's Restaurant
10.8 km
Cozy Ayr eatery serving traditional British comfort food with friendly service and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Stage Door Cafe
10.8 km
Cozy modern European cafe by Ayr’s Gaiety Theatre, serving fresh breakfasts and casual meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Meridian Bier Cafe & Restaurant
10.9 km
A vibrant Ayr venue blending casual breakfasts, hearty pub fare, and world beers in a lively, welcoming atmosphere from dawn till midnight.
The Tree House
10.9 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Ayr’s heart, featuring fresh local dishes and a hidden urban garden terrace.
Mr Basrai's World Cuisine Ayr
10.9 km
A vibrant all-you-can-eat buffet in Ayr serving diverse global cuisines in a family-friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
The Drunken Coo
11.0 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and western comfort food in a cozy, stylish setting at The Drunken Coo, Ayr’s beloved steakhouse.
Cecchini’s Italian restaurant
11.0 km
Authentic Tuscan flavors and warm hospitality await you in the heart of Ayr at Cecchini’s Italian Restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Many Thanks
6.7 km
Discover Many Thanks in Mauchline: a cozy gift shop and café offering unique Scottish crafts and warm hospitality in the heart of Ayrshire.
The Keekin' Glass
8.0 km
Discover quirky gifts and cheeky charm at The Keekin' Glass, Prestwick’s beloved boutique for unique treasures and joyful surprises.
Emporium Boutique
8.1 km
Affordable, stylish womenswear in a relaxed, independent boutique on Prestwick’s Main Street – perfect for everyday looks and special occasions.
Hidden Treasures
8.1 km
A charming boutique in Prestwick offering stylish ladies’ clothing, hats, and accessories in a warm, welcoming setting.
In The Mix
8.2 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local crafts at In The Mix, Prestwick’s charming boutique on Main Street.
A Scents Of Scotland
8.8 km
Discover handcrafted Scottish gifts and luxurious home fragrances that bring the spirit of the Highlands into your home.
Unique
10.6 km
Explore Unique in Ayr: Your go-to clothing shop for stylish, local fashion treasures.
Om Store UK
10.6 km
Discover a serene metaphysical sanctuary in Ayr’s High Street, offering crystals, incense, and spiritual treasures for mindful living.
Honeyman Boutique
10.7 km
Discover timeless bridal elegance at Diane Honeyman Boutique, Ayr’s premier destination for designer wedding gowns and accessories.
Next
10.7 km
Next Ayr offers stylish, family-friendly fashion and accessories in the heart of Ayr Central, blending quality and convenience for all ages.
Keepsake Scotland
10.7 km
Ayr’s charming gift shop packed with Scottish souvenirs, quirky homewares, and unique keepsakes on the historic High Street.
Bonmarché
10.7 km
Discover stylish, affordable women's fashion with friendly service in the heart of Ayr's vibrant High Street shopping district.
I Do Ayr
10.7 km
A welcoming bridal boutique in Ayr offering inclusive, elegant wedding dresses and haute couture fashion with exceptional personal service.
Branded Outlet Store
10.7 km
Explore unbeatable fashion deals at Branded Outlet Store in Ayr, where quality meets affordability for every style enthusiast.
The Original Factory Shop (Ayr)
10.8 km
Affordable shopping for fashion, beauty, and home essentials in the heart of Ayr with unbeatable discounts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Chase Inn
9.9 km
A cozy Ayr pub offering friendly service, local ales, hearty meals, and lively entertainment in a welcoming community setting.
The Black Bull
10.4 km
Ayr’s oldest riverside pub, The Black Bull blends historic charm with lively entertainment and friendly local spirit.
The Wee Mans Bar
10.5 km
Experience authentic Ayrshire hospitality and local flavors at The Wee Mans Bar, a cozy and historic pub in the heart of Ayr.
Christina's Bar
10.6 km
A friendly and affordable Scottish pub on Ayr’s Mill Street, offering hearty meals and a warm local atmosphere.
Harleys Ayr
10.6 km
A vibrant and welcoming bar on Ayr’s High Street, perfect for lively nights and social gatherings with a modern, inviting atmosphere.
Anchor Bar
10.6 km
A welcoming, traditional seaside pub in Ayr offering hearty food, great drinks, and scenic harbor views at an affordable price.
Smugglers
10.6 km
Traditional Scottish pub with rustic charm, lively entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere on Ayr’s historic harbourfront.
Willie Wastles Sports Bar & Restaurant
10.7 km
Lively sports bar and restaurant in Ayr with over 30 TVs, family and dog friendly, serving hearty meals and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wee Windaes
10.7 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish pub in Ayr offering warm hospitality, authentic atmosphere, and a welcoming local vibe.
The Smoking Goat bar and grill
10.7 km
A vibrant basement bar and grill in Ayr offering award-winning ambiance, live entertainment, and diverse, inclusive dining options.
Crumbs & Cocktails
10.7 km
A vibrant Ayr bar blending creative cocktails, live music, karaoke, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Billy Bridges Bar
10.7 km
Experience authentic Ayr nightlife with local ales, friendly vibes, and lively events at Billy Bridges Bar, your cozy Scottish pub retreat.
The Market Inn
10.8 km
A warm, traditional Scottish pub in Ayr offering lively football viewing, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Mulligan's Ayr
10.8 km
A vibrant Irish sports bar in Ayr offering lively music, extensive drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and tastes.
The Fort Bar
10.8 km
A welcoming harbourside pub in Ayr offering friendly service, great drinks, and a cozy atmosphere steeped in Scottish tradition.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Printhouse Ayr
10.6 km
Experience Ayrshire’s vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Printhouse Ayr, where music and atmosphere unite for unforgettable nights.
Ayr Ex-Services Club
10.7 km
A friendly and lively social club in Ayrshire offering great music, community spirit, and vibrant weekend nights.
Notion Ayr
10.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Notion Ayr, an exceptional events venue in the heart of Ayr, perfect for unforgettable social experiences.
The Club
10.8 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in the heart of Kilmarnock, offering lively music and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors.
Pitchers Bar and Nightclub
16.0 km
A vibrant and inclusive nightclub in Irvine’s heart, offering lively music, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere until the early hours.
Skye Nightclub & Lounge
33.6 km
Energetic nightclub and lounge in East Kilbride offering vibrant nightlife, music, and drinks in a stylish setting.
Downtown Nightclub
33.7 km
Experience East Kilbride’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Downtown Nightclub, a hub of music, dancing, and late-night energy in the town centre.
Vienna's Nightclub
37.0 km
Experience Paisley’s vibrant nightlife at Vienna's Nightclub, where energetic music and lively crowds come alive every weekend.
Fantoosh
37.0 km
A lively, intimate nightclub in Paisley’s heart, perfect for energetic nights with friends and local beats.
Club 69 Paisley
37.7 km
Dive into Paisley’s legendary underground techno scene at Club 69, where pulsating beats and vibrant vibes keep the night alive.
The Shed
37.7 km
Dive into Shawlands' glitzy two-floor nightclub where chart bangers, R&B, hip-hop, and 80s cheese anthems fuel unpretentious Southside partying till the early hours.
ROC Nightclub Hamilton
40.8 km
Experience Hamilton’s vibrant late-night scene at ROC Nightclub, the city’s energetic hub for weekend parties and music from 11 PM to 3 AM.
Hamilton Palace
40.9 km
Lively nightclub, bar, and restaurant in Hamilton’s city center, open late on weekends for vibrant nightlife and entertainment.
Sub Club
40.9 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
40.9 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly