Dumfries Museum

About Dumfries Museum

A treasure house of history in Dumfries and Galloway, Dumfries Museum tells the story of the land and people of the region. Look out for fossil footprints left by prehistoric animals, the wildlife of the Solway, tools and weapons of our earliest people, stone carvings by Scotland’s first Christians and the everyday things of the Victorian farm, workshop and home. The museum also hosts a lively programme of special exhibitions, events and family activities throughout the year and has a shop selling unusual and nostalgic toys, gemstones, gifts and books.
The world’s oldest working Camera Obscura is on the top floor of the windmill tower at Dumfries Museum. Originally an astronomical instrument, it was installed in 1836 when the windmill was converted into an observatory. From it you can see a fascinating panoramic view of Dumfries and the surrounding countryside. A unique experience.

Accessibility: There are two disabled car park spaces close to the covered front entrance of the museum. There is level access to the ground floor main hall displays and a lift to the first floor gallery and balcony exhibits. The windmill tower and Camera Obscura are accessed via a spiral staircase which winds around a pine mast. Toilets, including a disabled access toilet, are on the ground floor of the museum.