About

What is futuremuseum?

Future Museum is a partnership between East Ayrshire Leisure Trust. East Ayrshire Council, Dumfries and Galloway Council, North Ayrshire Council, South Ayrshire Council and the independent museums of the south-west of Scotland. Funded by the Regional Development Challenge Fund, the focus of this collaboration is to provide online access to the region’s museum and gallery collections as well as delving into the fascinating history and heritage of the area. 

We hope that the site also inspires you to come and visit our museums and galleries in person. More details can be found under our Partner Museum section.

A brief history of the region

The south-west of Scotland is defined by its geography - by the coast, the English border and the M74. The meeting point of Scots, Gaels, Angles, Vikings and Britons has led to a fascinating history and an interesting amalgamation of language, customs and place names.

The south-west has produced a number of pioneers in various fields, as well as several national heroes. Many aspects of industry and craft are represented including mining, engineering and textiles, some of which are unique to the south-west -  Ayrshire White Work; Mauchline Ware; Cumnock pottery; and Dumfries Silverware to name a few.

The south-west of Scotland is also well known for its contribution to artistic endeavour, with many influential artists having their roots in the region as well as several areas being home to artistic communities such as Kirkcudbright.