Hawick Museum
Discover a town’s treasure in an historic house set in beautiful parkland. This 18th century mansion became home to the town’s museum in 1910 – the oldest museum in the Scottish Borders. The objects and fine works of art collected are not just about Hawick, but are a window on the world. The Jimmie Guthrie and Steve Hislop exhibitions showcase the lives and achievements of Hawick’s two tragic motorcycle champions, making the museum a magnet for motorcyclists.
The museum, sited next to Hawick’s impressive war memorial, houses the town’s hand-painted Rolls of Honour for those who lost their lives in the two world wars. The newly-refurbished War Memorial Room tells the story of Hawick’s people in Britain’s wars, with a fascinating collection of military memorabilia and wartime souvenirs on display.
Families will enjoy the Old Schoolroom and Park Gallery with their hands-on activities.
There’s always something new to see with a lively programme of changing museum, art and craft exhibitions throughout the year, with accompanying activities. We host a programme of fun and educational workshops. Group tours and visits can be organised on request.
Take a look at our Museums & Galleries Guide to see what’s on here and at our other venues throughout the Scottish Borders.
Address: Wilton Lodge Park, Hawick, TD9 7JL
Contact: 01450 364 747 / enquiries@liveborders.org.uk
Facilities:
- wifi
- free parking
- disabled parking
- hearing loop
- cafe close by
- disabled toilets
- toilets
- gift shop
- bike racks
- accessible by public transport (with 10 min walk)
- assistance dogs welcome
- dogs welcome in grounds
- free admission
- baby changing
- coach tours welcome
- disabled access to ground floor only
- destination play park nearby
- education/school visits
Wilton Lodge Park’s bandstand is officially opened, and named after Hawick’s former Honorary Provost Zandra Elliot
Currently undergoing a £3.5 million National Lottery supported upgrade, Wilton Lodge Park is a veritable jewel in Hawick’s crown. Enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, the Park boasts tree-lined and riverside walks, walled gardens, a plethora of floral displays, statues of some of Hawick’s sporting greats, and a wide range of outdoor activities. The new bandstand has a programme of events throughout the summer months.
The Park is also home to Hawick Museum, which incorporates the Scott Gallery and displays and regular exhibitions ensure that there is always something for everyone.
Given that it extends to over 100 acres, there is plenty of room to roam, so come and see what Wilton Lodge Park has to offer.
Wilton Lodge Park Regeneration project
In December 2012 Heritage Lottery Fund approved a significant grant towards the delivery stage of the restoration of Wilton Lodge Park in Hawick. The entire project value is £3,647,320 which encompasses capital works, revenue for activities and delivery costs.
About the project
The project is a comprehensive plan and includes
- restoration of original park features within the designed landscape
- re-introduction of lost heritage elements
- working closely with Hawick museum and other heritage attractions in Hawick
- introduction of some new features
Five year restoration project
The five year restoration project includes key physical elements such as:
- recreation of the historic bandstand
- building of an exciting new café with link bridge across the River Teviot
- relocating and enhancing the existing children’s play area
- restoring the walled garden to be a centre for community horticulture and training
- refurbishing the historic gates
- enhancing the setting of Hawick Museum and creating an adjoining outdoor classroom
Events and activities
The project also includes funding to provide a programme of events and activities, volunteer training and engagement.
Wider regeneration
As part of the wider regeneration of Wilton Lodge Park, Hawick Museum has also created a ‘Park Gallery’ that will interpret the history of Wilton Lodge and the park, and explore the natural history of the park.
Friends of Wilton Lodge Park
The Friends of Wilton Lodge Park have been heavily involved with proposals and are pivotal in driving the development forward. http://www.fwlp.co.uk/