Kirkcudbright Tolbooth

The Kirkcudbright Tolbooth is a stone building with multiple floors and a clock tower that houses an art center in the town's center. A ground floor café serves local food and products, while artists work in studio spaces throughout the upper levels.

Built in 1629, the building initially served as the town's courthouse and jail. Among those held here was John Paul Jones, who later became a founder of the United States Navy.

The art center displays works by local painters and reflects this town's long history as a place where artists have lived and worked. Visitors can see how it continues to draw creative people who use the studios and share their work with the public.

Entry to the museum is free and visitors can move through all areas of the building without restrictions. Plan your visit during daytime hours when natural light illuminates the artwork and interiors throughout the space.

At the entrance sits an 18th-century drinking well with metal sundial-shaped water spouts, a rare surviving feature. This detail shows how the townspeople valued the building as a place of civic importance and gathering.

Location: Dumfries and Galloway

Location: Kirkcudbright

Website: https://dgculture.co.uk/venue/tolbooth-arts-centre-kirkcudbright

GPS coordinates: 54.83550,-4.05571

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:47