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Daily Record
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Three Scottish museums ranked among best in the UK outside London
These standout museums earned their spot thanks to world-class collections, immersive exhibits and global appeal Scotland is home to some of the UK's most fascinating museums, and three standout venues have earned recognition as some of the best museums outside of London. These sites are not only treasures of history and culture but also prime destinations for any visitor to Scotland. Three Scottish museums have been recognised in the prestigious Blooloop Top 25 UK Museums Outside London list. These remarkable institutions have earned their place through their exceptional collections, engaging exhibits, and cultural significance, attracting visitors from across the world. All three have benefited from multi-million pound regenerations in recent years, breathing new life into these excellent sites. Each museum has artefacts and exhibits that tell great stories of Scotland's past. David Livingstone Birthplace Opened after a £9.1mil regeneration in 2021, the David Livingstone Birthplace, located in Blantyre, South Lanarkshire, brings to life the story of the renowned Scottish explorer. This Grade A-Listed building was carefully refurbished to provide a modern interpretation of Livingstone's legacy. The museum explores his remarkable achievements, like his self-education and commitment to becoming a doctor, while also confronting more difficult aspects of his explorations. As museum director Grant Mackenzie explained: 'Livingstone was self-educated and walked eight miles into Glasgow at three or four in the morning each day.' The museum now aims to explore the explorer's legacy within a broader world context, incorporating modern issues such as Black Lives Matter. It provides a balanced view of Livingstone's life, showing both his accomplishments and the more troubling aspects tied to colonialism. Burrell Collection Meanwhile, in Glasgow, the Burrell Collection showcases a stunning array of nearly 9,000 artefacts spanning over 6,000 years of history. After undergoing a major £68million refurbishment, it reopened in 2022, boasting an expanded and more accessible space. The collection, which includes ancient Egyptian relics, Islamic art, medieval furniture, and Impressionist paintings by the likes of Degas and Cézanne, is housed in a sleek modernist building at Pollok Country Park. The Burrell Collection was recognised as the Art Fund's 2023 Museum of the Year, cementing its place as one of the finest museums in the UK. Its mission is not only to preserve Sir William Burrell's extensive collection but also to ensure its accessibility for future generations. As museum curators continue to enhance the visitor experience, the Burrell Collection stands as a testament to the rich diversity of global culture. Perth Museum Further north, the Perth Museum reopened in March 2024 after a significant £27million renovation. The renovation has breathed new life into the historic Edwardian building, transforming it into a major cultural hub. Home to one of Scotland's most iconic historical artefacts, the Stone of Destiny, the museum holds great significance in both Scottish and UK history. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. This stone has been used for centuries in the coronation of British monarchs, and its return to Perthshire after over 700 years adds an important chapter to the museum's collection. In addition to the Stone of Destiny, the Perth Museum features remarkable exhibits like a 3,000-year-old boat made from a single tree and a banner from the early women's suffrage movement in Scotland. The museum promises a dynamic cultural offering, with temporary exhibitions and educational programmes in addition to its permanent displays. As the city's architecture firm Mecanoo has enhanced this once-political and social gathering space, the museum has become a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts.
The Herald Scotland
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
New Viking displays bring Orkney's Norse past to life
Designed to share and celebrate the region's Norse heritage, the exhibition has been supported by a generous legacy donation from a former Orkney resident who emigrated to Australia, who left an express wish for his donation to be used to support Viking heritage and history. 'This exhibition not only brings history to life but also reconnects our community with its Viking past,' said Nick Hewitt, Team Leader (Culture) at Orkney Islands Council. 'We've worked closely with local craftspeople, historians, and experts to create something truly special - something that belongs to the people of Orkney.' READ MORE: Astonishing exhibition proves there's still something about Mary Queen of Scots Scottish band to have track housed at virtual Spanish Civil War museum Perth Museum celebrates first birthday after 'remarkable' year of success A key feature of the exhibition is Ragna, an interactive AI-powered Viking woman, offering a first-of-its-kind experience in museums. Visitors can ask Ragna about Viking life in Orkney, bringing historical storytelling to life in a way that museums have been unable to do up until now. Her background story has been written by Tom Muir, local storyteller and Exhibitions Officer at The Orkney Museum for years, and Dr Siobhan Cooke-Miller, Archaeology Curator for the Council. Dr Siobhan Cooke-Miller said: 'Our Viking and Norse past has shaped Orkney's identity and has had a lasting impact on our islands which we can see in our landscape, place-names, language and our rich heritage. "For the people of Orkney, and the thousands of visitors who come to the islands every year, the artefacts and the world class experience made possible by James Groundwater's gift offer an unparalleled and tangible window to our Viking past and the people in a way that transcends the passage of time and brings it to life.' Other highlights include rotating displays of artefacts from the National Museum of Scotland and Orkney's own collection as well as new interpretation panels and multimedia experiences, providing fresh perspectives on Orkney's Norse history. A Viking-age brooch (Image: The Orkney Museum) Councillor Gwenda Shearer, Chair of the committee responsible for the Council's Culture Services said: 'This is a once-in-a-generation overhaul of galleries showcasing one of the most intriguing aspects of our heritage, made possible only by an incredibly generous bequeath. 'We hope everyone will come and see the results of this amazing gift to the people of Orkney. 'Our Culture Services team have sought to incorporate some of the latest understandings and display technology into the new galleries and we're counting down to the time when all can be revealed!' The new exhibition at Orkney Museum opens on Saturday, May 10. To celebrate the exhibition's opening, the museum is hosting special guided walk through tours and Q&A sessions with members of The Orkney Museums team.
Daily Record
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Perth Museum in the running for prestigious prize
City centre visitor attraction is on shortlist for Art Fund Museum of the Year 2025. Perth's landmark museum - home of the Stone of Destiny – is once again in the running one of the most prestigious cultural prizes. It is one of five finalists for Art Fund Museum of the Year 2025, which is the world's largest museum prize. The popular visitor attraction, which opened at the end of March 2024, welcomed over 250,000 visitors in its first year - smashing its visitor target of 167,000 by 50 per cent. Since opening the £27m museum has received a clutch of awards and has been nominated for three Museum + Heritage Awards. Culture Perth and Kinross chief executive Helen Smout said: 'We are thrilled to be in the running as Art Fund Museum of the Year 2025, and honoured to be the only Scottish museum on the shortlist. 'This nomination belongs to the people of Perth and Kinross, Scotland, and all our staff, volunteers, supporters, and contributors who have helped make Perth Museum a very special place since we opened just over a year ago. 'We are changing perspectives on what a small, regional museum can achieve. 'Regardless of who takes home the grand prize, we already feel like winners.' Perthshire North MSP and First Minister John Swinney said: 'This is a fantastic achievement that speaks to the quality of Perth Museum, and the significant impact it has had on the local area. 'I extend my sincere congratulations to all those involved in making Perth Museum such a memorable and engaging place to visit. 'Being shortlisted for such a prestigious prize is a testament to their hard work and ingenuity.' Art Fund, the national charity for museums and galleries, shortlists annually five outstanding museums for Museum of the Year. The 2025 prize recognises inspiring projects and activity from autumn 2023 through to winter 2024. In addition to looking at the overall achievements of the organisation, the judges are tasked with identifying impactful projects that spotlight the wide range of remarkable people, including museum staff and volunteers, who bring museums to life by engaging with communities, families and younger visitors, artists and creatives. Perth Museum tells the story of over 10,000 years of Scottish and world history through a local lens. Alongside the Stone of Destiny, the Museum displays Perth and Kinross's Recognised Collections of National Significance as well as iconic loans and exhibitions. The winner of the Art Fund Museum of the Year 2025, announced on June 26, will receive £120,000 and £15,000 will be given to each of the four other finalists. The prize is funded by the generosity of Art Fund's members who buy a National Art Pass. During the shortlist celebration period (29 April to 26 June), Art Pass holders can enjoy free entry to the new Macbeth exhibition at Perth Museum, and 50% off all paid exhibitions at Perth Museum and Perth Art Gallery year-round. Art Fund director Jenny Waldman, speaking on behalf of the judges said: 'Congratulations to Perth Museum on being shortlisted for Art Fund Museum of the Year 2025. 'This year's finalists are inspiring examples of museums at their best – deeply connected to their local communities, responsive to the world around them, and alive with energy and ideas. 'Each one offers a distinctive experience, showing the endless creativity and care that goes into making museums inspiring and exciting spaces for everyone. Art Fund is proud to celebrate their work and support their ambition through Art Fund Museum of the Year. We hope people across the UK will be inspired to visit these remarkable places and museums in their local area to discover the powerful role they can play in our lives.' The Museum + Heritage awards ceremony will take place in London on May 15.
Scottish Sun
30-04-2025
- Scottish Sun
Little-known Scottish tourist attraction in running to be crowned best in UK – and it's not in Glasgow or Edinburgh
Read on for the full list of venues GREAT SCOT Little-known Scottish tourist attraction in running to be crowned best in UK – and it's not in Glasgow or Edinburgh A LITTLE-KNOWN Scottish tourist attraction is in the running to be crowned the best museum in the UK. Five attractions across the country have been shortlisted for the Art Fund Museum Of The Year Award 2025. Advertisement 5 The Perth Museum has been shortlisted for the top award Credit: PA 5 The museum is the new home of the Stone of Scone, more commonly known as the Stone of Destiny Credit: PA 5 The Stone of Destiny was used during King Charles' coronation Credit: Culture Perth & Kinross/Rob McDougall And there is a chance to win a £120,000 prize. The Perth Museum is the only Scottish site to be shortlisted along with four other venues for a top award. It opened its doors in March last year following a £26.5million redevelopment project. When the transformation project was first announced, Culture Perth and Kinross also revealed that the museum and art gallery would be split into two separate attractions. Advertisement Following the multi-million redevelopment project, Perth Museum is now located in Perth's former city hall, with the space transformed by the architecture firm Mecanoo. It looks at 10,000 years of Scottish and world history through a local lens. The museum is the new home of the Stone of Scone, more commonly known as the Stone of Destiny. It was previously kept at Edinburgh Castle, and was used during the coronation of Scottish Monarchs. The Stone of Destiny was used during King Charles' coronation. Advertisement Another one of its main attractions is a permanent exhibition of Bonnie Prince Charlie's sword. The solid silver broadsword belonged to Bonnie Prince Charlie who was officially known as Prince Charles Edward Stuart - the grandson of James II, who was King of England in 1685. Science and Industry museum manchester While it was previously part of a private collection, it is the first time the sword has been on display to the public. Other objects of interest include a 3,000-year-old Carpow Logboat. Advertisement The museum will also feature a cafe, a gift shop and learning and event spaces. Beamish, The Living Museum of the North in County Durham, Chapter in Cardiff, Compton Verney in Warwickshire, Golden Thread Gallery in Belfast have also been nominated for the top award. The winner will be announced on June 26 at a ceremony in Liverpool, which will be the first time the award has been presented outside London. The four losing finalists will receive £15,000 each. Advertisement 5 Following the multi-million redevelopment project, Perth Museum is now located in Perth's former city hall Credit: PA 5 Another one of its main attractions is a permanent exhibition of Bonnie Prince Charlie's sword Credit: PA Beamish, The Living Museum of the North is an open air museum, looking at life in the north east of England in the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s and 1950s, while Chapter is a Welsh arts centre made up of a gallery, artist studios, theatres, cinemas, a cafe bar, and community garden. Compton Verney is an art gallery with six installations and the Golden Thread Gallery is a Northern Irish contemporary art gallery. Advertisement Art Fund director Jenny Waldman, who will chair the judging panel, said: "This year's finalists are inspiring examples of museums at their best - deeply connected to their local communities, responsive to the world around them, and alive with energy and ideas. "Each one offers a distinctive experience, showing the endless creativity and care that goes into making museums inspiring and exciting spaces for everyone. "Art Fund is proud to celebrate their work and support their ambition through Art Fund Museum of the Year. "We hope people across the UK will be inspired to visit these remarkable places and museums in their local area to discover the powerful role they can play in our lives." Advertisement The award aims to recognise inspiring projects and activity from autumn 2023 through to winter 2024, looking at the overall achievements of the organisation, impactful projects, staff and volunteers, and community engagement. The prize is funded by Art Fund members who buy a National Art Pass.
The Herald Scotland
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Perth Museum shortlisted for Museum Of The Year Award
The winner will be announced at a ceremony in Liverpool, the first time the award has been presented outside London, with the four losing finalists receiving £15,000 each. Beamish, The Living Museum of the North is an open air museum, looking at life in the north east of England in the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s and 1950s, while Chapter is a Welsh arts centre made up of a gallery, artist studios, theatres, cinemas, a cafe bar, and community garden. Compton Verney is an art gallery with six installations, Golden Thread Gallery is a Northern Irish contemporary art gallery and Perth Museum looks at 10,000 years of Scottish and world history through a local lens. READ MORE: Perth Museum celebrates first birthday after year of success The Scottish city that's curiously underrated and overlooked Film costumes and props to feature in new Macbeth exhibition Art Fund director Jenny Waldman, who will chair the judging panel, said: 'This year's finalists are inspiring examples of museums at their best – deeply connected to their local communities, responsive to the world around them, and alive with energy and ideas. 'Each one offers a distinctive experience, showing the endless creativity and care that goes into making museums inspiring and exciting spaces for everyone. 'Art Fund is proud to celebrate their work and support their ambition through Art Fund Museum of the Year. 'We hope people across the UK will be inspired to visit these remarkable places and museums in their local area to discover the powerful role they can play in our lives.' The award aims to recognise inspiring projects and activity from autumn 2023 through to winter 2024, looking at the overall achievements of the organisation, impactful projects, staff and volunteers, and community engagement. The prize is funded by Art Fund members who buy a National Art Pass.
