Souter Johnnie’s Cottage
To protect people, all our properties are now closed. This includes gardens and grounds, as well as car parks at our countryside places. We urge people to follow the latest advice and stay at home. We look forward to welcoming you again, once it’s safe for everyone.
Step inside the home and workshop of an 18th-century shoemaker.
Head out into the garden to see the thatched model tavern.
Enjoy the displays of arts and crafts.
See fascinating artefacts relating to the life and work of the village souter.
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The gallery space inside the cottage
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The shop inside the cottage sells locally made crafts
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The model tavern in the garden with life-sized statues of Souter Johnnie and his wife
About this place
‘and at his elbow Souter Johnnie his ancient, trusty, drouthy crony’
Tam o’ Shanter’s partner-in-mischief was said to be based on John Davidson, the souter (shoemaker) who lived in this thatched cottage with his family in the late 18th century.
With changing exhibitions of local arts and crafts, this small gallery and gift shop retains the atmosphere of Davidson’s family home and workshop while providing a showcase for local talent.
A thatched outbuilding in the garden houses life-sized sculptures of Tam, Souter Johnnie and Nance Tunnock, much as Robert Burns visualised them - ‘fast by an ingle, bleezing finely’.
Our accreditations and awards
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We’d love to share some great ways for you to experience Scotland’s heritage from the comfort and safety of your own home