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29 Jan 2019

Raising funds for Burns Cottage

A view of the front gable end of Burns Cottage, which shows a lot of moss growing on the thatched roof and bad orange staining on the white stone walls.
Burns Cottage needs urgent work
We’re appealing for support to carry out vital works at the Bard’s birthplace.

Built more than 260 years ago, the humble cottage where Robert Burns was born needs urgent maintenance and we’ve launched an appeal to help protect it for future generations.

Burns Cottage in the Ayrshire town of Alloway was built in 1757 by Robert’s father, William Burnes, but centuries of Scottish winters have taken their toll, with the roof, walls and chimney in desperate need of specialist attention.

Burns Cottage has been cared for by the National Trust for Scotland since 2008, but we’re seeking the help of Burns lovers to ensure the cottage remains an inspiring place to visit.

We need to raise £100,000 to save Burns Cottage. By giving £15, donors can help fix the north-west wall; £35 will help restore a patch of thatch; and £60 will limewash a section of the walls.

A view of the rear gable end of Burns Cottage, showing some stone decay running down from the chimney. Large patches of moss can be seen on the thatched roof. There is a lot of orange staining on the walls.
Wet weather has taken its toll on Burns Cottage.
Quote
“Everything we do at the museum is for the love of Scotland. We’re all hugely passionate about Robert Burns and sharing the stories of his life and work, but we’re now asking for help to protect the legacy of Ayrshire’s most famous son.”
Caroline Smith, Operations Manager at Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

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A view of the kitchen showing the hearth and spinning wheel in Burns Cottage.
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Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

Birthplace of a genius – a celebration of the enduring legacy of Scotland’s national poet

Ayrshire & Arran

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