Kirkcudbright Galleries occupies the former Town Hall on St Mary Street, with displays spread across three gallery levels. Its collection follows the town’s history as an artists’ centre, with paintings, ceramics, jewellery and work by Jessie M King among the highlights. Look for the Mary Queen of Scots silver casket and check the top floor for temporary exhibitions, which bring historic and contemporary art to the gallery. Entry is free. There is also a café and a gift shop in the building.
The former Town Hall
Kirkcudbright Galleries is housed in the town’s former Victorian Town Hall, a 19th-century landmark on St Mary Street. The building has been adapted as a gallery, with displays arranged over three levels. Natural light and a spacious layout give visitors room to move between works and exhibitions. A lift connects the floors.
The galleries centre on Kirkcudbright’s connection with artists. The permanent collection includes more than 600 works and related objects, from paintings and illustrations to books, decorative art, craftwork, silverware and furniture. Archives and photographs add material about the people and history behind the town’s artistic life.
Art connected with Kirkcudbright
The collection includes works by members of the Faed family, Charles Oppenheimer and Samuel Peploe. Paintings of local scenery and the town sit alongside work by artists who visited or lived in Kirkcudbright. The displays also cover the wider story of the local art scene, with examples associated with the Glasgow Boys and Scottish Colourists.
Jessie M King is a particular focus. Her work includes silver jewellery designed for Liberty of London, as well as ceramics and drawings. The collection also holds correspondence from artists, including E A Taylor. Together, these objects show how the gallery’s holdings extend beyond paintings to design, craft and personal records.
The casket and changing exhibitions
The Mary Queen of Scots silver casket is one of the gallery’s notable objects. Its display gives visitors the chance to see it at close range. The galleries have also shown objects from the Galloway Hoard, including a rock crystal jar decorated with gold, with background information accompanying the display.
Temporary exhibitions are held on the top floor and change over time. Past displays have included paintings by S. J. Peploe and exhibitions of historic and contemporary work borrowed from galleries and private collections around the UK. Check what is showing when you plan your visit, as the temporary display can offer a different reason to return.
Facilities and events
A café is located on the first floor, and the gift shop is on the ground floor. The café serves coffee, cakes and traybakes, alongside light lunches such as soup, sandwiches and quiche. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices are listed among its food options. Seating is limited, so it can be busy.
The galleries also host talks, workshops, family activities and other events. The building has accessible entrances, seating, toilets and parking, and a lift serves the gallery floors. Admission is free; visitors can make a donation.
FAQ
Is entry to Kirkcudbright Galleries free?
Yes. Admission is free, and visitors can leave a donation.
How many floors are open as galleries?
The displays are spread across three gallery levels. A lift is available.
What can I see at Kirkcudbright Galleries?
The collection includes local paintings, work by Jessie M King, the Mary Queen of Scots silver casket and changing exhibitions. Temporary displays are on the top floor.
Is there a café at Kirkcudbright Galleries?
Yes. The café is on the first floor and serves coffee, baking and light meals. It is small and can get busy.
