OLD GALA HOUSE
Visit Old Gala House, an important and vibrant museum nestled in the heart of the bustling Borders town of Galashiels. Learn the story of this historic house and the development of the town. Dating back to 1583, this impressive building has seen over 400 years of activity and bears the fascinating traces of historic change: the painted, wooden-panelled ceiling dating from 1635 is a rare survival in Scotland, and it compares wonderfully with the ornate 18th century plaster ceiling in an adjoining room. Other rooms carry displays and information on the history of the local area and its enterprising people.
Opening times: September Tues-Sat 10-4; October Tues-Fri 1-4 and Sat 10-4
Sat 16 August – Sat 20 Sept Disorder by Rozee Colton
A showcase exhibition for a talented young local Borders artist, Rozee Colton who is studying photography at Edinburgh College of Art. Her photographic portraiture and fashion images are intuitive and reflect influences as diverse as Robert Mapplethorpe, Salvador Dali and Cecil Beaton.
Using a variety of formats, this exhibition presents light and dark aspects of inner emotions, body image and attitudes. The exhibition includes some challenging images.
Sat 27 Sept – Fri 31 Oct South by South East by Catriona Taylor
Catriona Taylor’s painting is inspired by the Scottish coastline and looks at landscape and coastal scape from Google Earth. She builds her painting, using maps, collage materials, text and by pouring paint onto the surface. Catriona uses the words of the Shipping Forecast to suggest the powerful force of the sea and our attempt to try and chart it and make it safer.
Sat 16 August – Fri 31 Oct The 80s are back!
Sparked by a combination of nostalgia, curiosity and the thrill of the taboo, the 80s revival just keeps getting bigger as a new generation looks to the decade for inspiration.
But what were the 80s really like? Were they just one big party and an awful lot of big hair? Or was there a lot more going on? This exhibition takes you back to the music, the fashion, the parties, the politics and the people.
Sat 23 August – Fri 31 Oct First World War in Galashiels
An exhibition and interpretation programme commemorating the centenary of the Great War which started in July 1914. This exhibition includes audio visuals and interpretation showcasing artefacts from the Old Gala Club collection. There will be a series of formal education activities and associated talks. Further details are available by telephoning 01750 20096.
SIR WALTER SCOTT’S COURTROOM, SELKIRK
Sir Walter Scott’s Courtroom is one of our direct links to the great Scottish writer. In this building Sir Walter Scott sat as Sheriff, dispensing justice to the town of Selkirk for nearly 30 years, until his death in 1832.
This important, historic building dates from 1804 and stands in the bustling Market Place of this historic town, next to a major monument dedicated to Sir Walter. Inside, you can learn the story of his association with the town and browse permanent displays of personal objects that once belonged to the world-famous writer of great literary works that included Rob Roy and the Waverley novels. Small gift shop. Tour groups welcome but no disabled access.
Opening times: September Mon-Fri 10-4, Sat 11-3; October Mon-Sat 12-3