St. Ronan's Wells Visitor Centre

Discover the Heartbeat of Innerleithen: Past, Pride, and Power

Community Exhibition | 9th July – 23rd July
St Ronan’s Wells Visitor Centre, Innerleithen

This summer, step into the living story of Innerleithen at St Ronan’s Wells, a unique heritage site nestled in the hills just a short walk from the town centre. Our Community Exhibition invites you on a captivating journey through the traditions, people, and industries that have shaped this remarkable place.

St Ronan’s Wells has long been a place of gathering and healing. Once a celebrated spa destination rivalling Harrogate, it drew visitors from across the country to “take the waters” of its sulphurous spring. The current pavilion was built by Scotland’s first bottled water company, and today, this tranquil site remains a beloved community space, surrounded by beautiful gardens open all year round.

The exhibition delves into Innerleithen’s cherished traditions, beginning with the vibrant legacy of Games Week. Founded in 1827 by James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, to entertain spa visitors and locals alike, the annual St Ronan’s Border Games and Cleikum Ceremonies continue to this day as a colourful celebration of community pride. Through rare photographs and personal stories, you’ll uncover how this event has united generations and become a cornerstone of local identity.

Alongside these festivities, the exhibition explores the industrious heartbeat of the town’s past. The historic mills of Tweeddale, once alive with the rhythm of weaving looms, played a vital role in building not just the economy but the dreams and daily lives of its people. This display honours the craftsmanship and resilience that defined Innerleithen’s working heritage.

But this is more than a history lesson – it’s a celebration of the people who continue to shape and care for the site today. Dedicated volunteers maintain the flourishing gardens, often on site each Thursday, with plants available for purchase and a warm welcome extended to all. Picnic tables and chairs invite visitors to relax by the pavilion, where a donations box helps support the ongoing care of the gardens and museum collections.

St Ronan’s Wells is accessible by a ten-minute uphill walk from the town centre, with free parking and disabled parking. Dogs on leads are also welcome in the grounds, making it a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike to connect with nature, heritage, and community.

The centre takes its name from the legend of St Ronan, an itinerant pilgrim monk said to have “cleik’t the Deil by the hind leg and banished him,” bringing Christianity to the valley and giving Innerleithen its enduring spiritual story.

This summer’s exhibition is a perfect opportunity to experience the past brought to life – and to be inspired by the traditions and spirit that continue to thrive in Innerleithen today.

Join us from 9th to 23rd July and discover the heart behind the history.

Exhibition Opening Hours:

Wednesday 9 – Saturday 12 July | 10:00–12:00 & 14:00–16:00
Sunday 13 July | CLOSED
Monday 14 – Wednesday 16 July | 10:00–12:00 & 14:00–16:00
Thursday 17 July | 10:00–12:00
Friday 18 – Sunday 20 July | CLOSED
Monday 21 – Wednesday 23 July | 10:00–12:00 & 14:00–16:00

Subscribe to our Museums, Galleries & Archives Updates