Sma' Shot Cottages: A Window into Paisley's Weaving Heritage
Explore authentic 18th-century weavers’ homes in Paisley, where history, craft, and community come alive in charming heritage cottages.
Sma' Shot Cottages in Paisley are a unique heritage site showcasing two distinct periods of the town’s weaving history. Visitors explore restored 18th-century weavers’ homes with original looms, gaining insight into the lives of Paisley’s textile workers. The adjacent 19th-century mill foreman’s house reveals evolving domestic life. The site features guided tours, a charming café with home baking, and a gift shop, all supported by dedicated volunteers preserving this important local legacy.
A brief summary to Sma' Shot Cottages
- Sma' Shot Lane, 11-17, George Pl, Paisley, PA1 2HZ, GB
- +441418891708
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 1 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesdays, Fridays, or Saturdays between April and September for guided tours and full access.
- Stay for tea and home-baked scones in the onsite café to complete your visit with a taste of local hospitality.
- Support the cottages with a donation or by purchasing souvenirs from the gift shop to help preserve this heritage site.
- Plan your visit around special events like Sma’ Shot Day in July for costumed tours and local celebrations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Glasgow Central Station, take a train to Paisley Gilmour Street (about 15-20 minutes). From the station, it is approximately a 15-minute walk to Sma' Shot Cottages through Paisley town centre. Trains run frequently with tickets costing around £4-£6 one way.
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Bus
Local bus services from Paisley town centre stop near George Place, within a 5-minute walk of the cottages. Bus routes 38 and 60 operate regularly, with fares around £1.80-£2.50. Check schedules for frequency and accessibility.
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Car
Driving from central Paisley takes about 5-10 minutes. Limited street parking is available nearby, but visitors are encouraged to use public transport due to restricted parking and town centre traffic. Parking fees vary by location.
Sma' Shot Cottages location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sma' Shot Cottages
Immersing in Paisley’s Textile Past
Step into Sma' Shot Cottages and you are transported back to the mid-18th century, entering a typical weaver’s cottage built in the 1750s. This authentic home features original handloom weaving equipment, offering a vivid glimpse into the daily life and work of Paisley’s weaving families during the town’s textile boom. The cottage’s intimate rooms reveal how craft and family life intertwined in this industrial yet domestic setting.From Weaver to Foreman: A Journey Through Time
Crossing the yard, visitors encounter the house of a mill foreman from the mid-19th century, showcasing a different social perspective within Paisley’s textile industry. This home is staged with period furnishings across multiple rooms — kitchen, living area, bedrooms, and parlour — illustrating the evolving domestic comforts and social status from the late 1800s into the early 20th century. Together, these buildings tell a layered story of Paisley’s industrial heritage.Guided Stories and Community Spirit
Sma' Shot Cottages are brought to life by knowledgeable local volunteers who provide engaging guided tours. Their passion and expertise enrich the visitor experience, sharing stories of weaving techniques, family life, and the origins of local traditions such as the annual Sma’ Shot Day celebration. This community-run site is a testament to grassroots heritage preservation.A Welcoming Space to Relax and Reflect
After exploring the cottages, visitors can unwind in the onsite tea room, which serves light lunches, teas, coffees, and home-baked treats like scones. The cozy café atmosphere complements the historical visit, offering a place to reflect on the past while enjoying local hospitality. The gift shop nearby offers unique souvenirs that celebrate Paisley’s cultural legacy.Preserving a Local Treasure
Owned and managed by the Old Paisley Society, a registered charity, Sma' Shot Cottages rely on donations and community support to maintain this rare glimpse into Scotland’s weaving history. Admission is free, encouraging accessibility while inviting visitors to contribute to ongoing conservation efforts. Special events such as Sma’ Shot Day in July and Doors Open Day in September feature costumed tours and festivities that celebrate Paisley’s vibrant heritage.Location and Accessibility
Situated in Paisley town centre, the cottages are easily accessible and surrounded by other amenities and attractions. The site’s limited opening hours from April to September include Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with private group visits available by arrangement. This small but significant museum offers an intimate, educational experience for those interested in industrial history, local culture, and traditional crafts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Paisley Town Hall
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Coats Paisley
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Renfrewshire House
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Walkinshaw Brickworks
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Renfrew War Memorial
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SEC Armadillo
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Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
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Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow
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Finnieston Crane
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Golden Hill Antonine Wall Fort
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The Clyde Arc
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The Lion and Unicorn Staircase
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Statue of Lord Kelvin
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Blantyre Monument
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The Suffragette Oak
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gerry Rafferty Mural
0.1 km
A vibrant mural in Paisley honoring Gerry Rafferty’s musical legacy and deep roots in the town’s cultural heritage.
The Paisley Centre
0.2 km
A vibrant three-level shopping centre in Paisley’s historic heart, blending high street brands with local charm and convenient access.
Paisley Museum & Art Gallery
0.4 km
Where Paisley's iconic pattern and textile legacy come alive in a reimagined world-class museum.
Oakshaw Trinity Church Oakshaw Suite
0.4 km
Discover Oakshaw Trinity Church, a historic 18th-century landmark in Paisley blending architectural beauty with ecumenical community spirit.
Piazza Shopping Centre
0.4 km
A vibrant and accessible shopping hub in Paisley with diverse stores, excellent transport links, and convenient parking for a complete retail experience.
Paisley Abbey
0.4 km
Historic 12th-century abbey in Paisley, birthplace of the Stewart dynasty, blending stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture with royal heritage.
Barochan Cross
0.4 km
Explore the Barochan Cross, a magnificent early medieval Celtic monument embodying the power and artistry of the ancient Kingdom of Strathclyde.
Coats Observatory
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s oldest public observatory, a Victorian scientific gem undergoing transformation to inspire stargazers and history lovers alike.
Paisley.is
0.5 km
Renfrewshire House, Paisley: The dynamic center of local governance and community services in Renfrewshire.
Reino Unido
0.6 km
Discover Reino Unido, an inspiring painting gallery in Paisley’s vibrant cultural scene at 29 Calside, showcasing diverse artworks in a serene setting.
The Number 1 Bead Shop
0.6 km
Explore one of the UK’s largest bead and jewellery supply shops in a charming converted church in Paisley, offering quality materials and creative workshops.
St Mirin's RC Cathedral Paisley
0.8 km
Historic Gothic cathedral in Paisley, the spiritual and community heart of the Diocese of Paisley since the 1930s.
Fountain Gardens
0.8 km
Historic Fountain Gardens in Paisley: Scotland’s urban gem centered around a majestic Grade A-listed cast-iron fountain and serene green spaces.
Paisley Thread Mill Museum
0.9 km
Discover Paisley’s thread-making heritage at this volunteer-run museum within the historic Mile End Mill, celebrating a global textile legacy.
The Lord Lounsdale
1.4 km
A friendly British bar and grill in Paisley offering classic pub fare, vegan options, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Jam Jar Paisley
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Cardosi's
0.3 km
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Il Pescatore
0.3 km
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Grand Fusion
0.3 km
A vibrant Asian fusion restaurant in Paisley blending traditional flavours with modern dining in a stylish setting.
Pendulum Bar & Grill
0.4 km
Stylish Scottish dining with vegan delights and stunning views of Paisley Abbey in a warm, modern setting.
Trattoria Genova
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian dining with fresh, homemade dishes and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Paisley.
Japan Street Food
0.8 km
Authentic Japanese street food in the heart of Paisley, where fresh ingredients meet traditional technique.
Royal Taj
0.9 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Paisley at Royal Taj.
Caffé Royale
1.3 km
Authentic Italian cuisine and exceptional breakfasts in the heart of Paisley.
Harvies Bar
1.4 km
Enjoy grilled delights and fine wines at Harvies Bar in Paisley – your cozy retreat for great food and company.
Bird & Signet Bar
2.4 km
A modern Scottish pub experience at Glasgow Airport, blending local flavors with traveler convenience and welcoming atmosphere.
Beijing Banquet
2.4 km
Savor authentic Chinese buffet delights in Renfrew’s welcoming and spacious Beijing Banquet, where fresh flavors meet attentive service.
Linwood Farm - Farmhouse Inns
3.0 km
Family-friendly pub in Paisley offering hearty carvery roasts, generous portions, and a lively atmosphere with indoor and outdoor play areas.
Butchers Steak & Grill
3.5 km
Savor expertly sourced steaks and warm hospitality at Butchers Steak & Grill, Elderslie’s top destination for meat lovers.
Vino's Cafe
3.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and warm hospitality at Vino's Cafe, a beloved culinary gem in the heart of Renfrew.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bailey's Antiques
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and antiques in the heart of Paisley’s historic High Street.
Gift World
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Gift World, a charming shop in Paisley, perfect for souvenirs and special occasions.
Ivad Gifts
0.6 km
Discover unique and pampering gifts with a personal touch at IVAD Gifts, Paisley’s charming boutique on Gauze Street.
Aquarius Crystals & Gifts
0.8 km
Discover a curated collection of crystals and spiritual gifts in Paisley’s welcoming and mindful shop.
The Range, Paisley
0.9 km
A versatile homeware and lifestyle store in Paisley Retail Park offering extensive products, accessible amenities, and convenient hours.
Warehouse 4 Ltd
1.0 km
Discover unique antique furniture and vintage treasures in Paisley’s welcoming Warehouse 4 Ltd, where history meets charm.
Shop Local
1.3 km
Explore a treasure trove of local crafts and artisanal products at Shop Local in Paisley—your gateway to authentic Scottish shopping.
KeyStore
1.4 km
Explore KeyStore in Paisley for all your convenience needs, from snacks to exquisite wines, in a friendly and welcoming environment.
Abbotsinch Shopping Park
2.0 km
A premier retail park in Paisley offering extensive home furniture, DIY stores, and convenient shopping hours for all your renovation needs.
Experience Gift Scotland
3.5 km
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The Hidden Wool Shop
4.7 km
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Ozzys Store
4.8 km
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No.8 Johnstone - Artisan Crafts & Gifts
4.9 km
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Emporium of Forgotten Dreams
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Bluestone Gift Shops
5.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cave
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Hashtag Bar
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Gantry
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Bull Inn
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The Wee Howff
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The Ugly Duck
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The Bankhouse
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The Tile Bar
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The Argyll Bar
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Old Swan Inn
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The Anchor Bar
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The Patter Bar
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Jaybee's Bar
0.9 km
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Balnagowan Arms
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The Woodside Tavern (Formerly The Crown Bar)
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Vienna's Nightclub
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Fantoosh
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Club 69 Paisley
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The Shed
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The Berkeley Suite
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Seventh Heaven Lap Dancing Club
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Firewater
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Dive into Glasgow's indie nightlife at Firewater, where two rooms blast alternative anthems, cheap entry fuels the fun, and Sauchiehall Street's energy ignites until 2:30am Thu-Sat.
Saint Judes After Dark
10.5 km
Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
Buff Club
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Dive into Glasgow's funky basement beats at The Buff Club, where soul, disco, and 80s grooves light up the night under disco ball magic.
142B Lounge
10.6 km
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Sub Club
10.7 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
10.7 km
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The Plug Glasgow
10.7 km
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Cathouse Rock Club
10.7 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Club Tropicana & Venga
10.7 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
