The Highland Museum of Childhood is located in Strathpeffer’s Victorian railway station where trains brought visitors to the village in it’s heyday as a spa resort.
The station is a Grade B listed building and is over 135 years old. This was a branch line from the market town of Dingwall. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Strathpeffer spa and pump rooms grew in popularity and the station was essential for bringing visitors from as far away as London.
The museum tells the story of childhood in the Highlands looking at themes such as birth, custom and traditions, education and crofting life. There are also displays about textiles and costume, childhood treasures and toys from the past 200 years. A film in the museum “A Century of Highland Childhood” shows local people reflecting on their memories of growing up in the Highlands in the early 20th Century. More recently the museum has shown short exhibitions relating to the local history of the area and the people who lived here.
The station building is a fine example of Victorian architecture. A recent research project has uncovered its full history and importance in creating a thriving tourist industry for Strathpeffer. You can find out more on the information panels along the platform.
The gardens and grounds have recently been refurbished so a perfect place to enjoy a picnic, dog walking or let the children explore the natural surroundings.
The museum has a small shop packed with books, children’s toys and small gifts.
Next to the museum is the Coffee Shop which has a reputation for fine coffees and teas, home baking. Further along the platform there is a Fair Trade gift shop and a beauty salon.
The Highland Museum of Childhood is openfrom 1st April – 31st October, Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 12.30pm-4pm.
Web: www.highlandmuseumofchildhood.org.uk
Tel: 01997 421031
