Bachelors' Club

Museum | Tarbolton | Scotland | United Kingdom

The Bachelors' Club in Tarbolton is a historic building that is closely associated with the famous Scottish poet Robert Burns. It was built in the 17th century and served as the meeting place of the Bachelors' Club, co-founded by Burns, a men's society dedicated to dance, debate, and Freemasonry. In this club, Burns not only learned to dance, but also engaged in discussions on important topics of his time.

The building itself has been authentically restored and offers a fascinating insight into the social structures and life of the 18th century in Scotland. Visitors can explore the 18th century rooms on the ground floor, while the upper floor houses the original meeting rooms where Burns and his friends held their discussions. Of particular note is the "10 Rules of Membership" written by Burns for the club, which is considered a rare document of the social norms and values of the time.

Another interesting feature of the Bachelors' Club is the traditional thatched roof, a typical building material for houses in the region. The club is one of the few remaining thatched buildings in Scotland, and its preservation is continuously maintained to uphold the historical charm of the house.

The Bachelors' Club offers a unique glimpse into social life in the 18th century and the early years of Robert Burns. It is an important site for those interested in the life and works of this Scottish national hero.

Contact details

Web

Phone

Address
Sandgate St
KA5 5RB Tarbolton

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday12:00 - 16:00
Monday12:00 - 16:00
Tuesday--
Wednesday--
Thursday--
Friday12:00 - 16:00
Saturday12:00 - 16:00

Reviews

26 Reviews

John & Wendy Graver
06.09.2024

It's not open. Big building work especially on roof
Stephen Paxton
06.08.2024

Off the beaten track. A small gem to enjoy, especially if you are a Burns aficionado. Only the single, upstairs room is of true interest. The lady on duty was brilliant. Attentive and knowledgeable. Recommended.
Frank Maguire
03.06.2024

A superb collection of social history. The staff were so very tactile , and their delivery of the history of the Bachelors club enlightening and entertaining on it's presentation. A little Gem of a place. Thank you.
Cheryl Parrett
27.05.2024

Enjoyable visit, the guide was very friendly and interesting
Jane Farmer
17.08.2023

Very friendly and knowledgeable curator who showed us around. It's brilliant that it's been bought and saved. Very interesting.
Gyorgy Nagy
29.05.2023

An absolutly stunning beautiful jewelbox. It maybe small, but in this case size doesn't matter
Lori King
02.05.2023

Loved this visit. Tom was a great your guide
ian capstick
10.08.2021

I have been lots of times as a member of the NTS.. And as a member of the Batchelors Club friends. We can't wait to get back to music again in the Batchelors Club. 🎼🎼
Neil Smith
13.02.2020

Check for the opening times,anyone interested in Burns then it is a must do.
Jessica April
29.09.2019

Closed when I went to visit on 14th Sept, not stated on Scotland national trust website, customer service not answering to their incompetence. Poor communication.
Gary Spencer
23.08.2019

Very interesting to find out about our passed the guide was very knowledgeable and the building was great keep it up.
Alex Hardie
03.08.2019

Excellent, very knowledgable guide.
David Close
22.07.2019

Sympathetically restored premises and educational exhibits from NTS that are key to Burns’ time spent living there, which ultimately influenced some of his most important works. Our NTS guide was also fantastic and brought the visit to life.
Cassiopeia on Tour
14.06.2019

Unfortunately closed when we were there
John Capstick
11.06.2019

Very interesting place anyone wants to know more about Burns . Should make sure and Go there . 🎶😁🌹
Dave Wightman
04.06.2019

Very interesting insight into Burn's life as a young man, meeting and debating with his friends. The building itself and it's history is fascinating.
Tom Burns
23.01.2019

I try to visit this centre in Tarbolton at least once a year. The curator's I find are helpful and informative. They help to bring the Bard alive.
Chris Waddell
01.02.2018

Great place, a must for all true Burns Fans
dennis berry
24.09.2018

The National Trust of both Scotland and England do a sterling job and deserve credit for the effots of there volunteers
Liam Gallagher
08.08.2018

Interesting to see this house which played an important role in the life of Rabbie Burns. Visit made all the more interesting through the information provided by the guide who had been drafted in from the Burns Museum.
William Johnston
02.06.2018

Wonderful atmosphere and well worth visiting.

 

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