Discover Musselburgh's rich history from Roman times to present day through engaging permanent displays and rotating themed exhibitions, all with free admission.

Musselburgh Museum opened in 2011 and offers visitors an immersive journey through one of Scotland's oldest towns. The museum features an 8000-year timeline displayed around the walls, permanent exhibitions showcasing the working, domestic and social life of Musselburgh and its surrounding area, plus new themed exhibitions curated annually. Visitors can explore fascinating local stories including the history of fisher women, Roman heritage, local businesses, and maritime traditions. | The museum is particularly engaging for families and school groups, with content suitable for all ages. Children aged 8 and above have found the Roman history displays especially captivating, while the detailed historical narratives and locally-themed embroidery exhibitions appeal to adult visitors. The small, intimate one-room setting creates a welcoming atmosphere managed and staffed by knowledgeable volunteers who provide warm, friendly service. | Admission is completely free, making it an excellent budget-friendly activity for families exploring East Lothian. The museum operates seasonally during spring and summer months (Thursdays-Saturdays, 10:30am-4pm). Visitors consistently praise the museum as a worthwhile stop for local heritage discovery and school history projects.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

M

mcdermc

2 years ago

Formerly this building served as Musselburgh tolbooth/town hall usually providing a council meeting chamber, a court house and a jail. The A-listed building dates from 1590, replacing an earlier building destroyed in the 1540s. The clock-tower may be up to a century older, the clock dated 1496. NB: The tunnel-vaulted spaces of the lower level have traditionally been used as shops, but today include the Musselburgh Museum that opened in 2011.

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Peter Coulson

2 years ago

The place is closed.

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Tom O'Rourke

2 years ago

Fantastic.

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Jo Beill

3 years ago

Interesting little museum. Display on the mills while we visited. Free entry and friendly staff.

J

John Moonraker

6 years ago

Very interesting small, local, one room, and free museum. Permanent exhibition about the past residents of the town. Temporary exhibitions: Lovely locally embroidery with scenes of local history. Very interesting exhibition about the Battle of Pinkie Cleugh in 1547.

Reviews last updated: 15 February 2026