We are a local history group in Kilwinning, Ayrshire in Scotland.
This website is intended to give members and visitors information about KH and its activities, and also about Kilwinning’s rich history, which stretches back to prehistory. Please check back regularly, as we will add news and information from time to time.
The Heritage Centre is located in the clock tower
which dates from 1816 and lies in the grounds of the 12th century
Tironensian
Benedictine Abbey. The Tower is owned and maintained by North Ayrshire
Council, and
staffed by volunteer members of Kilwinning Heritage. We welcome around
1500 visitors from all over the world each year and our volunteers lead
guided tours of the Tower.
Find out more about the Heritage Centre
Our aim is “to stimulate public interest in, and to encourage the conservation of the heritage, history and character of the area of the town and its surroundings, to encourage the preservation, development and improvement of features of historic interest and general public amenity”.
Our main activity is staffing the Abbey Tower Heritage Centre located in the heart of the town alongside the Old Parish Church.
We also have other activities such as summer visits to
places of historic interest near and far and guest lecturers and
speakers in the winter months.
As well as greeting visitors to our Heritage Centre, we are always keen to hear from local people interested in history and who may be willing to become a volunteer guide. For more information, contact us.
Read more about the Abbey’s History
KH is actively involved in a programme of small-scale archaeology projects in the local area. If you are interested in becoming involved, contact us. Full details of our projects and findings can be found on the Archaeology page
Mid-May to mid-September
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 1-3.
Other openings to be arranged.
Please check our Facebook page for details.
Climb the 143 steps for stunning views from the roof.
Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.
KH members enjoyed a trip to Edinburgh and had a guided tour of relevant exhibits in the National Museum of Scotland.
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The Hunterston Brooch is a highly important example of Celtic art, made around 700 AD and discovered in 1826 by two ditch diggers from West Kilbride.
The whalebone casket was once kept in Eglinton Castle.
The Abbey Tower visitor centre closes on Sunday 16 September 2018 and reopens at Easter 2019. To arrange group visits at other times, please contact us.
We are always happy to receive donations. These can be made via PayPal as a one-off or recurring payment, for a value of your choosing.