Welcome to Kilwinning Heritage

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.

Heritage Centre

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

More About Us

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.

Archaeology

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

Visit the Heritage Centre
Free Entry

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.

Latest News

Free online talks

We continue our series of talks via Zoom. All welcome.

Thursday 4 March 7.00-8.00pm Stuart Wilson will talk about the history of the Ancient Society of Kilwinning Archers from its formation in 1483 up to the present day. It will include some of the club's most significant events throughout its eventful history, a description of the ‘butts’ and ‘papingo’ shoots and a mention of some of the most notable previous captains. Book your place here.

Thursday 18 March 7.00-8.00pm Heather Upfield presents Time Piece, the journey . . plus extra time! How a modest investigation into James Blair, clockmaker, became a history of Kilwinning Clocks and Clockmakers. And just when you thought it was all over... there’s more. Book your place here

Tuesday 20 April 7.00-8.00pm Roger Griffith - The King's Road The final journey of ancient Scottish kings, through Kilwinning, to their burial place on Iona, investigating the local legend of the ‘Kings Road’ and the sea journey from Portencross to Iona for burial, with a Roman road and harbour, Viking road, cholera pit, loch, crannogs, hidden treasure from Kilwinning Abbey and an airstrip along the way. Book your place here

Free information leaflets

Free leaflets available on request. Contact us and tell us what you would like, and we'll email them to you.

View all news

Donate to Kilwinning Heritage

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.