Explore Museums in the Scottish Highlands

As Scotland is full of history there are a number of museums in the Scottish Highlands to help you learn more about life in this now peaceful part of the country.

Clan Cameron Museum in the Scottish Highlands

Explore the Clan Cameron’s history from the 1300s to the modern day

The Cameron Clan have lived in the Lochaber area since the 1300s. The Clan Cameron Museum in Achnacarry, near Spean Bridge tells the story of the Clan from the beginning through to the present day, including their role in the Jacobite Uprising which took place between 1715 and 1745.

See Bonnie Prince Charlie’s waistcoat

There are a number of rooms and exhibits in the museum, including Prince Charles Edward Stuart’s, ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’s’ waistcoat, information on Clan Cameron myths, legends, and slogans plus the history of Clan Cameron Chiefs past, present and future.

West Highland Museum in the Scottish Highlands

One of the oldest museums in the Scottish Highlands

The West Highland Museum was founded in 1922 making it one of the oldest museums in the Scottish Highlands. It’s sole purpose is to collect, conserve and exhibit items with historical and cultural interest relating to the West Highlands area of Scotland.

Learn about the World War Two Commandos

As well as items relating to Fort William’s military past, the Jacobite uprising and Highland life, it also has ‘The Commando Room’ dedicated to the story of the World War Two Commandos who trained at nearby Achnacarry. The training regime of the military Commandos was revolutionary. The museum showcases the training, weapons and equipment used by the Commandos as well as detailing some of their missions.

The Highland Folk Museum in the Scottish Highlands

Explore how Highlanders lived in the past

The Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore is Britain’s first open air museum. A visit to the museum will help you to explore what life would have been like for Highlanders in the past. You will learn how houses were built, what farming tools were used and even how Highlanders dressed.

Try to spot a red squirrel

The museum is set on 80 acres and includes a woodland which is home to red squirrels. After exploring the museum head to one of the picnic benches to enjoy your picnic or grab a soup and sandwich from the cafe. After lunch why not take a quiet walk to see if you can spot one of the red squirrels high up in the trees.

Culloden Battlefield

Discover the real story of the Jacobite Uprising

Not technically a museum but for those interested in the Jacobite Uprising, a visit to the Culloden Battlefield is a must. Stand in the very place where the Jacobite Uprising came to a tragic end on 16th April 1746. Discover the real story from both the Jacobite and Government perspectives.