Robert Burns Ellisland Museum & Farm is the poet’s former home in Auldgirth, near Dumfries, beside the River Nith. Burns lived here with his family from 1788 to 1791, and wrote some of his best-known work at the farm. Explore the house, study and farm buildings, then watch a short film and learn about his family, working life and ties to the local farming community. The grounds offer a quiet riverside walk, with a chance to spot wildlife; the shop stocks poetry books and postcards.
Burns at Ellisland
Robert Burns lived at Ellisland Farm from 1788 to 1791 with his family. He had the farmhouse built for his bride, Jean Armour, and worked here as a farmer as well as a poet. Some of his best-known writing came from this period, including Tam O’Shanter and Auld Lang Syne.
The museum explores his home life, literary work and connection to the farming community. Exhibits include historical objects from the farm, and a short film introduces Burns’s time at Ellisland. A guided tour can add detail about the house and his life here.
The house, farm and riverbank
You can look inside the main house and visit the study associated with Burns’s writing. The farm buildings and grounds give a sense of the rural setting where he lived and worked. Orchards and stables are also part of the wider farm landscape.
The River Nith runs beside the grounds. A walk along its banks offers a quieter part of the visit, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as mergansers and wild mink. Wear shoes suited to walking outdoors, and allow time to explore beyond the museum rooms.
Planning your visit
Ellisland is in Auldgirth, near Dumfries. The visitor experience includes the museum, a film, guided tours, a gift shop and access to the grounds. The shop sells poetry books and postcards. There is no coffee shop, so bring a snack or drink if you will be spending time walking around the farm.
Weekdays and off-peak periods are suggested for a quieter visit. The site has wheelchair-accessible parking, an entrance, seating and a restroom. Advance tickets are recommended; check the farm’s website before setting out for current visit information.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Robert Burns Ellisland Farm?
It is in Auldgirth, near Dumfries, beside the River Nith.
What can you see at Ellisland Farm?
You can explore the farmhouse, study, farm buildings and grounds, see historical exhibits and watch a short film about Burns.
Can you walk at Ellisland Farm?
Yes. The grounds include a walk along the River Nith, where wildlife such as mergansers and wild mink may be seen.
Is advance booking recommended?
Yes. Advance tickets are recommended.
