culture-museums-Old-Gala-House

Historic home of the Lairds of Galashiels

Old Gala House

Overview

Old Gala House is currently closed, but we are excited to welcome you back on Saturday 13 June 2026! Get ready for more history and art to discover, more fun to enjoy, and more memories to make. We can’t wait to see you then!

Please note that Old Gala House will be closed on Friday 27th June from 10:00-13:00 for the Common Riding and local festival celebrations.

Set in beautifully maintained grounds near the centre of Galashiels, Old Gala House is an impressive building dating back to 1583. Once home to the Lairds of Galashiels and with over 400 years of history, the house is now a museum and gallery which tells the story of the town and its people along with hosting a vibrant programme of exhibitions and events.

Find out more about our 2026 Exhibitions and Events – CLICK HERE

Your visit is Free. Please Donate to help us keep this unique museum free to everyone. Your donation plays a vital role in helping us to improve our visitor experience. You can donate HERE

Plan your journey with Traveline Scotland.

Discover the Perfect Wedding Venue at Old Gala House!

Your wedding day is a celebration of love, unity, and joy—an unforgettable event that deserves the perfect venue. Old Gala House offer a timeless and elegant setting for your special day, find out more HERE

Accessing the Museum

CLICK HERE to view our access statement for full information on accessibility in the Museum.

We have an accessible toilet on the ground floor, with baby changing facilities. The upper floor can be accessed via a chair lift.

Quiet Wonders: Gentle Museum Mornings are specially scheduled times for visitors who prefer to explore at a slower pace, in a calm and sensory-considered environment. They run from 10am to 12noon on the first Fridays of the month. For more information CLICK HERE.

Plan your visit

Scott and Pringle Rooms only
Wifi access
Limited
Free parking
Limited
Disabled parking
Disabled toilets
Toilets
Shop
Bike racks
Bus stop on Bank Street, 5 mins walk
Accessible by public transport
Assistance dogs only
Dogs / assistance dogs
Free admission
Partial to first floor
Disabled access
Baby changing facilities
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Enjoy our stunning gardens, featuring the SiMBA Tree of Tranquillity, along with picnic benches, a fountain and a waterfall. The gardens are lovingly maintained by the Gala in Bloom volunteers.

There is limited free parking available on site, including designated spaces for disabled visitors. The ground floor offers accessible entry, with a stairlift providing access to the first floor. Facilities include toilets and baby changing areas, and assistance dogs are warmly welcomed. Bike racks are available, and the museum is easily accessible by public transport. Coach tours are also welcome.

Entry is free, and if you enjoy your visit, donations are always appreciated to help us care for the site and its beautiful surroundings.

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Scott Crescent

Galashiels, TD1 3JS

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Opening Times

Opening Hours
  • Monday closed -
  • Tuesday closed -
  • Wednesday closed -
  • Thursday closed -
  • Friday closed -
  • Saturday closed -
  • Sunday Closed -