Scotland

The Great Tapestry of Scotland

The Great Tapestry of Scotland

Experience Scotland's rich history through stunning hand-stitched art in a five-star visitor center, showcasing tales of its culture and heritage.

OUR EXPERIENCES
Be inspired by the history of Scotland through a unique and engaging visual story from the Ice Age to the Modern Day. Presented in our purpose-built gallery, we offer an exciting range of bespoke tours and group packages to take visitors through time viewing 143 meters of hand stitched, wool thread embroidery on linen panels. With authentic narrative you will discover the story of Scotland through its Battles & Wars, Power & Politics, Kings & Queens, Innovation, Tragedy, Humour and much more!

ABOUT US
This community project, inspired by an international author, narrated by an award-winning historian and drawn by an distinguished artist, was hand stitched by 1000 volunteers in more than 200 villages, towns and cities across Scotland led by a master stitcher. From across the Highlands, Islands and Lowlands, this was made possible by the people of Scotland. Through history and storytelling, we introduce our visitors to the communities and landscapes of this magnificent country. The Tapestry is one of the most ambitious projects ever undertaken in Scotland: an artwork by the nation for the nation and a legacy for generations to come. Displayed chronologically, visitors can explore 143 meters of Scotlands history, heritage, innovations and culture, from the formation of the land that became Scotland to the modern day. All panels and images are easy to understand and explore tales of struggles and ambitions, successes and failures, and searches for meaning and belonging. The Great Tapestry of Scotland is located in a purpose-built five star visitor centre. This, the permanent home of the Tapestry, is in Galashiels, the heart of the Scottish Borders, an area rich with history of textile-making.

OUR IMPACT
We believe that sustainability is not only about adopting green principles within our building but also about community involvement, inclusivity, accessibility, resources and energy management and health and safety. We are playing our part in working our way through these attributes for the Great Tapestry of Scotland, our community, the Scottish Borders and in turn the planet as a whole. We encourage community involvement, regularly review our energy efficiency, waste reduction and management as well as coming up with sustainable practices for the Shop, office and cafe.

DETAILS

To learn more, contact: tapestry@liveborders.org.uk

What are your minimum and maximum group sizes?
1-50 (however, 10+ are eligible for our group rate discount)

Do you require visitors to pre-book?
No

Do you have group rates?
Yes

Do you pay commissions to travel advisors?
No

What languages do you offer your services in?
English but with gallery plans translated to French, German, Spanish and Italian.

When are you open?
From April-October: Every day 9.30am-5pm with last entry to the Gallery at 3.30pm From November-March: Tuesday-Saturday 9.30am-5pm with last entry to the Gallery at 3.30pm

What accommodations do you make for people living with disabilities?
The Great Tapestry of Scotland is in a purpose-built centre with flat, step free access to all of the ground floor, including Cafe, Shop and Toilets. All toilets are Gendre Neutral and have accessible toilets. The Tapestry Gallery is on the first floor and can be accessed by stairs or via a lift.

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