Background

Dollar Museum: A Window into Local Heritage in Clackmannanshire

Explore Dollar’s rich history and vibrant community heritage at the welcoming and volunteer-run Dollar Museum in Clackmannanshire.

4.6

Located in Castle Campbell Hall on High Street, Dollar Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Dollar village and its surroundings. Open weekends from Easter to Christmas, the museum showcases exhibits from prehistoric times to modern days, including local archaeology, historical events, and community life. The museum is run by dedicated volunteers and provides free entry with a welcoming atmosphere perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Dollar Museum

  • Castle Campbell Hall, 1 High St, Dollar, FK14 7AY, GB
  • +441259742185
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Saturday 11 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 2 pm-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on Saturdays or Sundays during the open season from Easter to Christmas for full access to exhibits and volunteer guides.
  • Take advantage of the free entry but consider making a donation to support the museum’s volunteer efforts.
  • Explore the reading room for additional local history resources and photographs.
  • Families should check for availability of children’s interactive areas like Granny’s Kitchen before visiting.
  • Contact the museum in advance to arrange visits outside regular hours or for research purposes.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Stirling, the Dollar Museum is approximately an 18-25 minute journey via the A91. Limited parking is available near the museum, so plan to arrive early during busy weekends. There is no parking fee.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Dollar with Stirling and nearby towns. The journey typically takes 30-40 minutes. Check local timetables in advance as weekend service frequency may be limited. The nearest stop is within walking distance of the museum.

  • Train and Walk

    The closest train station is in Alloa, about 8 miles from Dollar. From there, a taxi or local bus can be taken to Dollar village, adding approximately 20-30 minutes travel time. The museum is then a short walk from the village center.

Dollar Museum location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

Unlock the Best of Dollar Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Dollar Museum

Historic Setting and Community Roots

Nestled in the heart of Dollar village, the Dollar Museum is housed in the historic Castle Campbell Hall, a building that itself echoes the rich past of the area. The museum is deeply embedded in the local community, operated entirely by passionate volunteers who curate exhibits that tell the story of Dollar and its surrounding region. This connection to the community lends the museum a warm, personal atmosphere that invites visitors to explore the layers of local heritage.

Exhibitions Spanning Millennia

The museum’s displays cover a broad timeline, beginning with prehistoric artifacts such as bones from Bronze Age inhabitants, through to significant local historical events like the Battle of Dollar. Visitors can also discover intriguing stories such as Robert Burns’ romantic connection to Harviestoun. The museum features models of important local landmarks, including the Dollar Railway Station, and regularly updates its temporary exhibitions to highlight different aspects of Dollar’s past.

Interactive and Family-Friendly Features

Dollar Museum offers engaging experiences for children, including Granny’s Kitchen, a Victorian-themed play area with toys and dressing-up clothes, fostering an interactive learning environment. Though some activities may be subject to seasonal or health-related restrictions, the museum strives to be a welcoming space for families, encouraging hands-on exploration of history.

Research and Resources for History Enthusiasts

Beyond the exhibits, the museum houses a well-stocked reading room filled with local books, maps, and photographs, serving as a valuable resource for researchers and those interested in delving deeper into the region’s history. The museum also accommodates special visits and research appointments by arrangement, supporting academic and personal historical inquiries.

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

The museum is accessible to visitors with mobility needs, featuring a ramp and wheelchair-accessible restrooms. Limited parking is available nearby, and the location is within easy reach from Stirling, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. Entry to the museum is free, with donations welcomed to support its ongoing operations.

Seasonal Operation and Community Engagement

Open from Easter through to Christmas, the museum operates primarily on weekends, with Saturday hours split between morning and afternoon sessions and Sunday afternoons open for visitors. The museum’s calendar includes special exhibitions and events that reflect the evolving story of Dollar, making each visit potentially unique. Its status as a Scottish Charity underscores its commitment to preserving and sharing local heritage with visitors and residents alike.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Dollar Museum

Popular Hotels near Dollar Museum

Select Currency