Callendar House |
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Callendar House encapsulates 600 years of Scotland's history from medieval times to the twentieth century. Great historical figures like Mary Queen of Scots, Cromwell and Bonnie Prince Charlie have visited the house. Now you can follow in their footsteps and discover the dramatic history which has been brought so vividly to life in the unique interpretative experience that is Callendar House.
Falkirk - at the cross-roads of Scottish History
Since the beginning of time, the Falkirk area has been a cross-roads for travellers. In recognition of the area's strategic importance the Romans built their Antonine Wall across the area,
and the remains of the wall can still be seen in the grounds of Callendar House. By the 11th century the house of the King's representative, the Thane of Callendar, nestled behind the ancient wall for protection and here the foundations were laid for the creation of Callendar House.Callendar House - windows on history
The first stone building on the site was a tower house built in 1345 by William de Livingstone after he was gifted the estates of Callendar by King David II. The house was occupied by the Livingstones and their descendants until the death of Lady
Anne in 1747. In 1783 the House and the estate were put up for auction and although the Livingstone family attempted to purchase the property, they were easily outbid by William Forbes, a copper merchant from London and a "self made man". Today the thick walls of the original tower house can still be observed in the Victorian Library. Subsequent extensions to Callendar House in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries were also incorporated into the original building, and visitors exploring the house today can still see traces of architecture spanning five centuries.
Explore 600 years of Scottish 
History
Callendar House has many stories to tell and secrets to share. Enjoy a tour of one of Scotland's finest country houses. Marvel at the magnificent painted ceiling of the Cromwell Stair and gaze at the impressive Morning Room and Drawing Room. See history brought to life in interpretative areas within the house. Experience for the first time in Scotland, trained staff in period costume and surroundings, re-creating the daily routines of the past. William 
Forbes's Falkirk also includes a major state-of-the-art exhibition which will take you on a journey through time from the days of the Jacobites to the advent of the railways, A wide range of interactive displays, touch-screen computers, working models, reconstructions, original archives and artefacts allows visitors to experience first hand the elements that shaped this dramatic period. 'The Story of Callendar House', on the ground floor traces the story of the house and its occupants from the 11th century to modern day and the part they played in shaping our nation's history. Housed in the magnificent oak-panelled Victorian Library, the 
History Research Centre contains a wealth of archive material on Falkirk and the surrounding area's extraordinary heritage. A fascinating range of temporary exhibitions is staged throughout the year in the galleries on the ground and first floors. Take tea in the teashop at the Stables where the culinary heritage demonstrated in the kitchen at Callendar House is reflected in the menus. A unique setting, charmingly decorated in Georgian style, the Teashop offers excellent fare, serving delicious teas, coffees, home baking, snacks and lunches. Visit our well-stocked Museum Shop for inspirational gifts, such as traditional books and toys for children, miniature clocks, crystal and prints.
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Opening Times
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(2007 times)
Mon-Sat 10.00am - 5.00pm All year round. Sun (April - Sept) 2.00pm-5.00pm. Last admission 4.00pm.The History Research Centre has different opening times - these are 10.00am - 12.30pm and 1.30pm - 5.00pm, Monday to Friday (closed at weekends and local holidays). |
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Admission Charges
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(2007 prices)
Free Admission.
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Directions
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Nearby Attractions
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Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway
(6 Miles)*
The Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway is home to an exciting collection of railway buildings, locomotives, equipment, carriages and wagons. |
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Linlithgow Story
(6 Miles)*
Linlithgow's Museum, The Linithgow Story, is situated in Annet House on the Royal Burgh's historic High Street. Annet House is, in itself, part of the town's history, being built in 1787 as home to one of the town's merchant families. |
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Royal Burgh of Culross
(7 Miles)*
This picturesque Royal Burgh on the northern shore of the Forth is a complete community, preserved as it was in the 16th and 17th centuries. |
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Nearby Hotels
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Nearby Self Catering
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