Welcome to North Ayrshire Heritage

The Home of Heritage in North Ayrshire

Here we bring to you the best of heritage throughout North Ayrshire. From exhibitions at our museums and those of North Ayrshire Museums Forum members, to comprehensive databases on our own collections.

We also have archives for you to explore on famous people, buildings and ships that have helped to shape the history of North Ayrshire.

Why not begin your own research in our genealogy section? Or arrange to borrow one of our loan kits?

North Ayrshire Stories

North Ayrshire is full of fascinating Stories, from the remarkable people who invented and researched to those who explored and created.

The area is full of historic structures, such as castles, war memorials and churches. From the beautiful Cathedral of the Isles on Millport, to the medieval Kilwinning Abbey Tower, North Ayrshire has a bit of everything.

Finally, the Stories section includes a wide range of events that took place in North Ayrshire. From the sinking of U-33, to the Auchenharvie Pit Disaster. Read about the stories that took place in North Ayrshire.

To read all of this and so much more, visit our Stories section.

Explore Our Resources

Trace your family tree with our genealogy service or borrow one of our loan kits to enhance your teaching experience.

Why not explore North Ayrshire with our Heritage Trails or create your own with Places That We Know?

North Ayrshire Heritage Trails

North Ayrshire Heritage Trails

Learn about the history of North Ayrshire while walking one of our heritage trails! Visit the sites where history was made, find the blue plaques and scan the QR codes to learn more! Find out more HERE.

Places That We Know

Places That We Know

Explore North Ayrshire via user-created trails! Discover the heritage of the area while walking or biking. Find out more HERE.

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Genealogy

Visit our genealogy department at Irvine Library to begin your research. Whether you are tracing your family tree or doing local history research, our archive is sure to help you. Find out more HERE.

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Loan Kits

We have a variety of loan kits at our Heritage Centre which are free to borrow. Perfect for schools and reminiscence groups! Find out more HERE.

Visit Our Museums

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Our main museum in North Ayrshire, the Heritage Centre features changing exhibitions and a large collection. We have a rich art collection and varied historical artefacts. Click HERE for more information.
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This museum is based in the beautiful Garrison House on the stunning Isle of Cumbrae just 8 minutes from the mainland. Click HERE for more information.
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We have a varied exhibition program at our Heritage Centre in Saltcoats, be sure to check out our exhibition section to see what's on and to read about past exhibitions.

You can read more HERE.

Visit Us

Opening Days: Monday to Wednesday (& Last Saturday of Every Month)

Opening Times: 9:30am - 1:00pm & 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Address: Manse Street, Saltcoats,  KA21 5HB

For More Information Click HERE

North Ayrshire Council Link