St. Andrews Preservation Trust Museum & Garden |
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Although there has been a house on this site since at least 1140, the present building is probably 16th century. It was originally built for one family, but was later divided up to create houses for fisher families. In 1937 the building was saved from demolition by a local architect, James Scott, who reconstructed it using materials salvaged from other condemned houses. On the ground floor, for example, you can see a marriage lintel used as a mantelpiece, and a doorway made from the frame of a box-bed. The building was purchased by the St Andrews Preservation Trust in 1962. The Trust is a charitable organisation which aims to preserve the history and character of St Andrews.
The Ground Floor
Our displays on this floor depict a variety of old shops and businesses in St Andrews including Aikman & Terras, a grocer's which operated in the town from 1837 until 1981. Our display shows the shop as it would have been in the early 1950s, just as rationing was coming to an end – a fascinating insight into the days before the supermarket. Our chemist shop display contains many interesting items from the 19th and early 20th century, many of which came from Keith's the Chemist, once situated at 73 South Street St Andrews. These include two large glass carboys – used to identify the shop from the outside – and a variety of implements and receptacles from the days before the National Health Service when the majority of pills and medicines were made on the premises. The display of dental equipment dates from the mid 19th century. Many of these tools belonged to local jeweller-turned-dentist David Duncan and his descendants and illustrate the happy progress that has made since the early days of dentistry. Also on the ground floor is the Museum Shop.The First Floor
On the staircase and first floor landing can be seen exhibitions relating to various aspects of the history of St Andrews and its people. These change regularly throughout the year so there is always something new to see. Also on the first floor landing is the Museum Juniors area, providing fun worksheets and books for children aged 5-12. New worksheets and children's competitions are produced in conjunction with each exhibition.Exhibitions on the first floor change five or six times each year and cover a wide range of topics. The Museum collections are largely St Andrews related and previous exhibitions have included the history of the St Andrews Railway, schools in St Andrews, the history of cinema, the Home Front in World War II and the history of St Andrews harbour.
The exhibition for Summer 2005 is 'The Pursuit of Beauty' - women's costume and accessories from Victoria to the Swinging 60s and beyond.
The Museum also takes part in local events including the annual StAnza poetry festival and the Preservation Trust's popular 'Hidden Gardens of St Andrews'. Other exhibitions have featured the work of local artists and craftspeople and students at the university.
The Garden
Our lovely secluded garden has acquired a reputation as one of the most beautiful and tranquil sites in St Andrews. Situated behind the Museum and sheltered from both noise and sea breezes by its fine old 16th century walls, the garden is home to many beautiful plants and shrubs and has won a number of prizes over the years. On summer days it provides an ideal place to relax and enjoy the sunshine. Truly a hidden gem!
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Opening Times
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(2008 times)
Easter Fortnight: Daily 2.00pm - 5.00pm.End of May to End of September: Daily 2.00pm - 5.00pm. St Andrews Week: (November) and at other times throughout the year. Group tours by arrangement with the Curator. |
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Admission Charges
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(2008 prices)
Free.
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Directions
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St. Andrews Preservation Trust Museum & Garden Postcode for SatNav: KY16 9PW |
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Nearby Attractions
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St Andrews Cathedral & St Rule's Tower
(< 1 Mile)*
These are the remains of the largest cathedral in Scotland, with associated domestic ranges of the priory. |
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St Andrews Castle
(< 1 Mile)*
St Andrews Castle consists of the ruins of the castle of the Archbishops of St Andrews, dating in part from the 13th century. |
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Crawford Arts Centre
(< 1 Mile)*
The Crawford is an intimate gallery showing a wealth of work by living artists & craftspeople. |
| more nearby attractions... |
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Nearby Hotels
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Nearby Self Catering
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