Venue Description

Situated in the town’s eighteenth century watermill on the west bank of the River Nith, the Robert Burns Centre tells the story of Robert Burns’ last years spent in the bustling streets and lively atmosphere of Dumfries in the late eighteenth century. Recently redisplayed, the exhibition showcases a precious collection of artefacts that are of national significance. Visitors can explore Dumfries as it would have been at the time of Robert Burns through a fascinating 3D landscape model, with additional information and illustrations available on two new gallery apps. An audio booth gives visitors the chance to listen to contemporary performances of the poets’ songs and poems and younger visitors can discover more about Scotland’s national bard through a colouring sheets, word games and a Robert Burns Lego trail. The historic building is also home to the Robert Burns Film Theatre, (which screens a mixture of contemporary independent cinema, arthouse films, Live Event Cinema and classic films), and The Bonnie Bistro, serving breakfasts, lunches, afternoon teas, evening meals and Sunday roasts.

Accessibility

There is a small car park alongside the Robert Burns Centre with eight spaces including one dedicated disabled car parking space. Additional parking is available on Mill Road. There is a ramp to the entrance of the building. There is a push button to open the front door of the Robert Burns Centre. A stair lift is available to access the first floor exhibition area. This requires the user to manage a step onto the chair. We regret there is no access to the main displays on the first floor for wheelchair users. Toilets, including a disabled access toilet, are on the ground floor. The short film in the first floor exhibition has subtitles. There is a listening post with two sets of headphones for visitors to enjoy songs written by Robert Burns. There are touchscreens with further information on the artefacts on display and the text can be resized or translated into different languages. There are activity trails available for families to enjoy.

Toilets

The accessible toilet is on the ground floor without steps. The door is a sliding door with a lever lock. There is space alongside the toilet for transfer from a wheelchair from left to right.

Staff

Our colleagues have had basic training in deafness awareness and diversity awareness. They will be pleased to welcome you and do their best to assist visitors. If you have a specific question or something you’d like to check before your visit please email via dumfries.museum@dumgal.gov.uk or call the Robert Burns Centre on 01387 264808

Assistance dog facilities

Assistance dog exercise facilities

The Mill Green is directly outside the Robert Burns Centre with a lot of green space plus seating and trees. There is also a children's play area.

Other assistance dog facilities

There is a water bowl outside the front door of the Robert Burns Centre.