The Big Idea

The Big Idea is a science center in North Ayrshire with five exhibition areas covering Power, Control, Materials, Communication, and Mechanisms. The modern exhibition explains scientific concepts through interactive displays and hands-on examples.

The center opened in April 2000 on the grounds of a former Nobel Explosives manufacturing site. The transformation from industrial production to a science center marked a new purpose for the historic location.

The museum displays works by Scottish inventors such as John Napier and Alexander Fleming throughout its exhibition areas. Visitors can see how these innovators shaped science and technology.

The building is reached by a special footbridge called the Bridge of Scottish Inventions, which crosses the River Irvine to connect to the town of Irvine. This movable bridge links the center directly to the town center and provides easy access.

Students from Ardeer Primary School placed a time capsule beneath the reception area in 1999, long before the museum opened. This hidden capsule holds items from that period and remains waiting to be discovered someday.

Location: North Ayrshire

Inception: 2000

GPS coordinates: 55.60890,-4.69417

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:47