A treasure house of history in Dumfries and Galloway telling the story of the land and people of the region. The Camera Obscura, installed in the windmill tower in 1836, is the oldest working instrument in the world.

 

A treasure house of history, Dumfries Museum tells the story of the land and people of Dumfries and Galloway. Look out for fossil footprints left by prehistoric animals, the wildlife of the Solway, tools and weapons of our earliest people, stone carvings by Scotland's first Christians and the everyday things of the Victorian farm, workshop and home.

 

The Camera Obscura, installed in 1836, is on the top floor of the old windmill tower. From it you can see a fascinating panoramic view of Dumfries and the surrounding countryside. A unique experience.

 

Museum trails and fun activities, visitor information and shop with unusual and nostalgic toys, gifts and pocket money buys.

 

Opening hours

 

Open all year

April-September Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 2pm-5pm

October-March Tuesday-Saturday 10am-1pm, 2pm-5pm

 

Admission Charges

 

Admission to the Museum is free.

 

Dumfries Museum let (outwith normal opening hours) - per hour £10.00

 

Camera Obscura

Open April - September

Adults £2.40

Concessions £1.20

 

Camera Obscura viewings are not available when it is raining in order to preserve this rare historical instrument.

 

Access

 

The Camera Obscura is reached by a spiral staircase - please contact us for more information.

 

Contact Details

Address: The Observatory

Rotchell Road

Dumfries

DG2 7SW

 

Tel: 01387 253374

Fax: 01387 265081

Email: dumfriesmuseum@dumgal.gov.uk

 

Note: all images on this site are copyright of Dumfries Museum. They may not be used or duplicated without prior written permission or consent.