What is there to see at the Wardlaw Museum?
With thematic galleries, a programme of changing exhibitions, a wide range of gifts in the shop, events, audio tours and one of the best views in St Andrews, the Wardlaw Museum offers something for everyone.
-
The Research Studio is an experimental space where you'll find the latest new thoughts, discoveries and ideas from experts at the University of St Andrews.
Content is created by the researchers themselves, often in short timescales to ensure you can encounter the latest findings.
History in Our Bones: Thinking together about Disability in Premodern Europe, Prof Alison Beach
In the Research Studio from 4 April to 30 May 2025.
.png)
History in Our Bones aims to make past individuals, marginalised by historiographical and archaeological narratives, visible by revisiting impairment and disability within select contexts from Late Antique to Early Modern Europe.
This collaboration pioneers a new approach to understanding the daily lives of people with physical disabilities and healed trauma in premodern Europe by bringing together historians, archaeologists, archaeological scientists, forensic imaging experts, and orthopaedists specialising in the biomechanics of skeletal impairment and healed trauma.
The research is presented by Professor Alison Beach from the School of History at the University of St Andrews.
-
If you don't have much time, you can see the key highlights of the museum in 15 minutes. Our staff will be happy to recommend things to see.
-
Whether you're an art lover, a history buff, keen on science or something else entirely, there's a good chance the museum will have something that interests you. Tell our staff about your special interest to get recommendations for your visit.
Exhibitions change several times a year and our events programme offers a range of talks, workshops and chances to meet experts. See what's on right now, or email museumlearning@st-andrews.ac.uk to join our mailing list.
-
If you're part of a big group or an organised tour it's a good idea to phone before your visit. This will allow us to prepare for your arrival and make it an enjoyable experience.
We also offer free guided tours for groups. You can request this when you phone, or by speaking to a member of staff when you arrive.
-
If you would like to visit the Museum when it's quiet, try:
- weekdays between 5pm and 7pm
- quiet openings:
- the first Sunday of the month between 10am and midday
- the third Thursday of the month between 2pm and 5pm
- free relaxed drawing sessions on Wednesdays between 5pm and 7pm, where you can sit in the galleries and sketch what you see (all materials are provided and all abilities are welcome)
Our events programme is designed around the Five Ways to Wellbeing.
Links to external sites and information
The University is not liable for external web content and may not be aware when this content is changed or removed.
-
The Wardlaw Museum aims to offer a warm welcome to families. You will find:
- free activity backpacks to encourage deeper engagement with the displays
- free sensory backpacks for those who need them
- a variety of hands-on interactive elements to encourage exploration of the galleries
The Learning Loft
Only available when not used for events, the Learning Loft offers:
- a quiet space for breastfeeding (welcome throughout the museum)
- craft activities, toys and games
- a space to eat your packed lunch
See more on facilities at the Wardlaw Museum.
Free events
- 'Wee Wardlaws' for pre-school children and whoever looks after them, on the first Friday of every month.
- Regular workshops during school holidays.
- Family fun days three times a year.
