Inside the Old Oban Times building on Corran Esplanade, the Oban War & Peace Museum traces the town’s story through wartime objects, photographs, models and displays on local life. Learn about Oban’s role during the Second World War, as well as its fishing and maritime industries, railway and the building of McCaig’s Tower. Volunteers can add context to the exhibits, and children can take part in a museum quiz. Entry is free; donations help support the volunteer-run museum.
A local museum on Corran Esplanade
The Oban War & Peace Museum is in the Old Oban Times building at 22 Corran Esplanade. Its collection grew from local enthusiasts gathering objects and memories, and the museum opened to the public in 1996. The displays bring together Oban’s military history and the everyday life of a west coast port.
Much of the collection is made up of photographs and objects from the area. Uniforms, models and other wartime items sit alongside material about the town’s industries and transport. The range makes this a useful stop for understanding Oban as well as its role in wartime.
Oban during the world wars
Oban’s position on the coast gave it strategic importance during the Second World War. The town was home to Australian, Canadian and US aircrew, while RAF flying boats operated from the bay. Displays explain the town’s wartime role and the contributions of local people.
Look out for the models and photographs that help put this history in context. The collection also touches on the town’s connection to the Battle of the Atlantic and its place as a military base. Volunteers can share further details about individual exhibits.
The town beyond its military history
The museum also covers Oban’s fishing and maritime industries, railway and road transport, local sports, and the story of McCaig’s Tower. These displays broaden the visit beyond the war years and show how the town developed as a port and transport centre.
Children can take part in a quiz as they look around. Volunteers are available to answer questions, and the museum’s free entry makes it possible to drop in for a short visit. Donations are welcome and support its work.
FAQ
Is entry to the Oban War & Peace Museum free?
Yes. Entry is free, and donations are welcome to support the museum.
How long does a visit take?
Allow about 20 to 30 minutes for a short visit.
What can you see at the museum?
Displays include wartime objects, uniforms, photographs and models, as well as material on Oban’s maritime industries, transport and McCaig’s Tower.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. Children can use a museum quiz to engage with the exhibits.
