National Museum of Rural Life
National Museum of Rural Life
National Museum of Rural Life
4.5
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Spend a day in the countryside, uncover Scotland's unique rural history and meet the animals on the farm. In the museum, learn about the land, people and ways of working that have shaped Scotland's rural history, and discover Scotland's largest collection of tractors, combine harvesters and other farming machinery. Just a short walk or tractor-trailer ride from the museum is the working farm, home to Ayrshire, Aberdeen Angus and Highland cattle, Tamworth pigs, sheep, hens and Clydesdale horses. Visit the Georgian farmhouse, with rooms decorated as they would have been in the 1950s, and explore the bothy, outbuildings and kitchen garden. Round off your visit with a stop at the onsite cafe, or bring your own picnic to enjoy in the outdoor play park and picnic area. Book online at nms.ac.uk/rural
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
369 reviews
Excellent
215
Very good
116
Average
30
Poor
4
Terrible
4
capt-ll
Glasgow, UK60 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
The museum is very educational and always on rotation so definitely worth a revisit. The staff at reception very friendly and informative.
We ordered two panini's but they had ran out. The girl offered us toasted sandwiches with our chosen fillings instead. We weren't left disappointed.
The tractor ride to the farm was great.
The farm visit and getting to see all the animals and new born babies was so lovely. The staff were very nice and we got a peek at the lambs after feeding times which was wonderful. I could spend quite some time wandering. The hens are real characters and Daisy's Jeepers Creeper was too cute and enjoyed some nose nuzzling.
The house...so perfectly preserved and beautiful. So great to see. It would be nice if visiting parents showed more respect and didn't allow their children to bang things around that shouldn't be touched.
On our walk back down we met a lovely scarecrow in a stunning garden setting. We also chatted with the lovely lady who let us in to see the lambs when she was out riding.
We will absolutely be back soon.
Thank you for a wonderful visit.
We ordered two panini's but they had ran out. The girl offered us toasted sandwiches with our chosen fillings instead. We weren't left disappointed.
The tractor ride to the farm was great.
The farm visit and getting to see all the animals and new born babies was so lovely. The staff were very nice and we got a peek at the lambs after feeding times which was wonderful. I could spend quite some time wandering. The hens are real characters and Daisy's Jeepers Creeper was too cute and enjoyed some nose nuzzling.
The house...so perfectly preserved and beautiful. So great to see. It would be nice if visiting parents showed more respect and didn't allow their children to bang things around that shouldn't be touched.
On our walk back down we met a lovely scarecrow in a stunning garden setting. We also chatted with the lovely lady who let us in to see the lambs when she was out riding.
We will absolutely be back soon.
Thank you for a wonderful visit.
Written June 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
scottish_nicky86
Rutherglen, UK120 contributions
May 2021 • Family
We went up to the farm this afternoon with our 2 kids (2 and 7 years old). Had to prebook due to covid restrictions. After you go in and check in you go through the museum in a one way system which leads you outside to the path upto the farm animals.
On the path up you see the sheep and lambs in the fields, Highland cows in the fields and 2 clydesdale horses. There is also some wicker animals for the children to find to keep them entertained.
Once you have reached the end of the path you come to the pigs. Behind the outdoor toilets is a pig pen with pigs and piglets. We never seen many cows as they were in the milking she'd being milked. We went round and seen some young calfs and lambs in their barn.
The farmer was grooming one of the horses and spoke to us about the horse which was lovely. In a barn next to the old farm house museum was some more young calfs. The museum was closed for covid reasons. You go back down through the garden and then the road the tractor trailer would take you on. The farm was a good way to spend a couple of hours. You could spend the day there as there's pic nic tables next to the playpark which was closed.
On the path up you see the sheep and lambs in the fields, Highland cows in the fields and 2 clydesdale horses. There is also some wicker animals for the children to find to keep them entertained.
Once you have reached the end of the path you come to the pigs. Behind the outdoor toilets is a pig pen with pigs and piglets. We never seen many cows as they were in the milking she'd being milked. We went round and seen some young calfs and lambs in their barn.
The farmer was grooming one of the horses and spoke to us about the horse which was lovely. In a barn next to the old farm house museum was some more young calfs. The museum was closed for covid reasons. You go back down through the garden and then the road the tractor trailer would take you on. The farm was a good way to spend a couple of hours. You could spend the day there as there's pic nic tables next to the playpark which was closed.
Written May 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Fern
East Renfrewshire, UK365 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
the museum is ok probably very good if you are genuinely interested in that sort of thing but we went mainly for the farm and it didn't disappoint! it's a working farm and very interesting lots of animas to see. fun for kids but we are 2 adults and had a blast lol
the cows were hilarious wouldn't stop licking us, the one week old calves very cute, horses were lovely & desperate for attention and petting, even the sheep were coming to see us, plus one of the farm cats
the highlight however was the piglets!!! there was piglets born the morning of our visit as well as a week before and 3 weeks before. they are gorgeous such cute little things
would like to single out margaret she was lovely & chatted with us several times, answering questions & giving information about the animals! the groundsman in black uniform was also lovely but didn't catch his name - he's pals with the crows!! :) they both absolutely made out visit
the cows were hilarious wouldn't stop licking us, the one week old calves very cute, horses were lovely & desperate for attention and petting, even the sheep were coming to see us, plus one of the farm cats
the highlight however was the piglets!!! there was piglets born the morning of our visit as well as a week before and 3 weeks before. they are gorgeous such cute little things
would like to single out margaret she was lovely & chatted with us several times, answering questions & giving information about the animals! the groundsman in black uniform was also lovely but didn't catch his name - he's pals with the crows!! :) they both absolutely made out visit
Written July 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
George K
Aberdeen, UK92 contributions
Jul 2022
We had been planning to visit this museum for some time and finally got to see it in July. I'm inclined to say that we were a little disappointed by the experience, but I must qualify this.
We live in a small village surrounded by farmland - mainly sheep and arable. We have also in the past, helped to raise rare breed sheep and pigs for meat. As such we were hoping to find out more about aspects of farming that we weren't familiar with, as well as seeing the tractors and other agricultural implements.
The museum was interesting enough, though we thought a bit more information would have been helpful. The farm was more aimed at, as one member of staff put it, inner city kids who had never seen a cow up close. This is certainly not a criticism - education is vitally important, but we expected a few more staff to explain some of the work that goes on in the farm.
So, there it is. I'm sure most people would find it an enjoyable day out and a small sample of farming life. It just wasn't what we expected.
We live in a small village surrounded by farmland - mainly sheep and arable. We have also in the past, helped to raise rare breed sheep and pigs for meat. As such we were hoping to find out more about aspects of farming that we weren't familiar with, as well as seeing the tractors and other agricultural implements.
The museum was interesting enough, though we thought a bit more information would have been helpful. The farm was more aimed at, as one member of staff put it, inner city kids who had never seen a cow up close. This is certainly not a criticism - education is vitally important, but we expected a few more staff to explain some of the work that goes on in the farm.
So, there it is. I'm sure most people would find it an enjoyable day out and a small sample of farming life. It just wasn't what we expected.
Written August 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Eilidh M
Glasgow, UK18 contributions
Oct 2022
Visited on a rainy Saturday morning, not knowing much about this museum in advance. We were very pleasantly surprised by the experience - great exhibitions on rural history with artwork, old equipment and tractors. We took the tractor ride up to the farm, most of the animals were keeping out of the rain but we saw some cute calves and piglets, and toured the beautiful old farmhouse, which has a truly fascinating history. There is also a cafe with lovely views, picnic tables and a play park. We look forward to visiting again with our nieces and nephews in fairer weather!
Written October 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
itchyfeet2014
Glasgow, UK2,261 contributions
Nov 2021
This was a lovely morning out.
The museum is well located, just off the main road, with plenty of parking. We were offered the tractor ride up to the old farm buildings. This was good fun, as it was quiet we had the whole carriage to ourselves. Children would really enjoy it. The old farmhouse was charming and stepping into the past for while.
We walked back to the main museum fir lunch in the cafe.
There was plenty of interest for everyone here and a great insight to farming life. I recommend this museum highly.
The museum is well located, just off the main road, with plenty of parking. We were offered the tractor ride up to the old farm buildings. This was good fun, as it was quiet we had the whole carriage to ourselves. Children would really enjoy it. The old farmhouse was charming and stepping into the past for while.
We walked back to the main museum fir lunch in the cafe.
There was plenty of interest for everyone here and a great insight to farming life. I recommend this museum highly.
Written November 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Greig_7
Glasgow, UK23 contributions
Feb 2020
We have visited several times with the grandchildren who have re-named this "The Tractor Farm".
The tractor ride to and from the farm is usually a highlight but we also enjoyed just walking. Looking forward to seeing the lambs soon. The calves are lovely too.
Great picnic/play area next to the visitor centre.
If the weather is not so good, we enjoy the indoor facilities too. Do ask for the picture hunt sheet for the young ones.
A ticket is valid for a year, so this is really not expensive.
We can also thoroughly recommend the cafe.
The tractor ride to and from the farm is usually a highlight but we also enjoyed just walking. Looking forward to seeing the lambs soon. The calves are lovely too.
Great picnic/play area next to the visitor centre.
If the weather is not so good, we enjoy the indoor facilities too. Do ask for the picture hunt sheet for the young ones.
A ticket is valid for a year, so this is really not expensive.
We can also thoroughly recommend the cafe.
Written March 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
polythenegirl
Paisley, UK50 contributions
Apr 2022 • Family
Great day out for young children. I thought it would be a quick visit but we ended up spending 4 hours there. Easter holidays so there was a craft room set up and a storytelling session which my 4 year old loved. Took the trailer ride to the farm, children loved seeing the baby animals up close. Great cafe, small but good play park, lovely staff throughout.
Written April 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bonnie
26 contributions
Jun 2021 • Family
Amazing day out, lots for kids to do & really impressed with the activity sheets for kids to keep their attention while walking through the museum and farm grounds. Cafe lovely and covid friendly. Recommend for a lovely day in the countryside!
Written June 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Graeme
East Kilbride, UK1,101 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
Beautiful day so popped in. Work to get House open underway and it will re-open Thursday 7th October. Tractor will hopefully be back on after some tractor path work. Even with COVID restrictions the Farm is a haven of quiet.
Written October 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Syeda N
Birmingham, UK1 contribution
I am thinking of going with my nephew but it says we need to book a 1 hour slot but i don't think 1 hour is enough?? Can someone clarify if we only have 1 hour there ?
Graeme
East Kilbride, UK1,101 contributions
Fear not. Winter brings lower visitor numbers so quieter. Just book and come along. Staff are great and no one will chase you.
Passenger06024348090
Tremblay-En-France, France
Can I bring a dog
National Museums Scotland
Edinburgh, UK12 contributions
Hello, Thanks for your question and for all responses above.
Non-assistance dogs are allowed outdoors on the site as long as they are kept on a lead at all times. They are not allowed in the museum building or the farmhouse, however. Dogs are allowed outdoors at event days, as long as they are on a lead.
joanmaclennan46
Glasgow, UK11 contributions
Opening Hours Tuesday 4th December
Jimbo190947
Livingston, UK185 contributions
I'm afraid I don't know but t hey are on thebwebsite
YVR_Traveller_9
Toronto, Canada172 contributions
Are there sheep and goats on the farm?
Graeme
East Kilbride, UK1,101 contributions
Scottish Black Face sheep but no goats. 2 Highland cows, Tamworth Pigs, Ayrshire Cows, Chickens, 2 Clydesdale Mares, not forgetting 2 black cats.
Can you do horse riding in the place and if yes how much is it and do you have to book first
Graeme
East Kilbride, UK1,101 contributions
There is no horse riding on the Farm other than regular exercise of the Stock Person's own Irish Cob or at events like the Heavy Horse Show but not by the Public.
parsimoniouss
1 contribution
Can you tell me about the additional discretionary charge to the entrance fee? And exactly how much is it?
National Museums Scotland
Edinburgh, UK12 contributions
Hiya,
Thank you for your query. The full admission price is £7, this includes a discretionary donation of 70p. The admission to the Museum without the discretionary donation is £6.30.
The discretionary donation helps support the Museum and its work, and with your permission also allows us to collect Gift Aid – we can reclaim tax on the whole amount paid – which makes a real difference to our income.
I hope that you are planning a visit to the museum soon as spring is an exciting time to visit, with flowers out and new born animals on the farm. There are special activities on over the Easter weekend as well - find out more at the National Museums Scotland website.
Can u take ur dog along. ?
FiRuss
30 contributions
I did not have a dog, however the website confirms that dogs are allowed outdoors as long as they are on a lead. You are unable however, to take your dog inside the museum or the farmhouse unless it is an assistance dog.
National Museum of Rural Life (East Kilbride) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about National Museum of Rural Life
- National Museum of Rural Life is open:
- Sun - Sat 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Hotels near National Museum of Rural Life:
- (0.33 mi) Holiday Inn Glasgow - East Kilbride, an IHG hotel
- (1.02 mi) Premier Inn Glasgow East Kilbride (Peel Park) hotel
- (1.76 mi) Busby Hotel
- (2.30 mi) Premier Inn Glasgow East Kilbride (Nerston Toll) hotel
- (6.81 mi) Alamo Guest House
- Restaurants near National Museum of Rural Life:
- (0.07 mi) Cow on the Hill
- (0.21 mi) Shielings Café
- (1.57 mi) The White Cart
- (1.41 mi) Gardenhall Inn
- (1.92 mi) Oiishi Japanese Cuisine