Old Gala House

About

Please note this venue is now closed for and will re-open on Saturday 14 June 2025 when we look forward to welcoming visitors back. Set in beautifully landscaped grounds near the centre of Galashiels, Old Gala House is an impressive building dating back to 1583. Once home to the Lairds of Galashiels, the house is now a vibrant museum and gallery which tells the story of the town and its people. The building has seen over 400 years of activity and bears the fascinating traces of historic change: the painted, wooden-panelled ceiling dating from 1635 is a rare survival in Scotland, and it compares wonderfully with the ornate 18th century plaster ceiling in an adjoining room. Other rooms carry displays and information on the history of the local area and its enterprising people. It also hosts a gift shop and stunning gardens. Free car parking and partial wheelchair access with a stair lift to the exhibitions on the 1st floor.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes