Timespan is a local history museum and arts centre on Dunrobin Street in Helmsdale. Its exhibitions explore the town and surrounding area, including the gold rush and herring industry, with local artefacts and a display about the oil rig Beatrice. The museum is compact, so it can fit into a short stop; there is also a library for research and workshops. After browsing, head to the cafe for a crepe or a slice of cake, or take your coffee into the riverside garden.
Local history in Helmsdale
Timespan’s museum covers Helmsdale and the surrounding area, with displays on local industries including the gold rush and herring. Artefacts and historical information give the exhibitions a local focus. One display features Beatrice, the oil rig.
The museum is compact, so you can include it in a shorter stop in Helmsdale. The exhibitions bring together local history and social history; the material here does not describe the full economic context of the Highland Clearances.
Art, research and the cafe
Timespan is also an arts centre, with exhibition space and a programme of community events. A library is available for people interested in research, and the venue has workshop space.
The cafe serves sweet and savoury crepes, cake and coffee. The riverside garden gives you a place to sit with your order. The venue also has free street parking and wheelchair-accessible entry and toilets.
Preguntas frecuentes
What can you see at Timespan?
The museum explores Helmsdale’s local history, including the gold rush and herring industry. It also has local artefacts and a display about the Beatrice oil rig.
Is there a cafe at Timespan?
Yes. The cafe serves sweet and savoury crepes, cake and coffee, with seating in a garden by the river.
Is Timespan wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and restroom are wheelchair accessible.
Can you research local history at Timespan?
Yes. Timespan has a library for research and workshop space.
