Museum of Islay Life

The Museum of Islay Life is a fully Accredited Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation. It is managed by a board of trustees who meet on a regular basis.

The museum opened in 1977 with the principal aim of conserving and displaying items representative of life in Islay over the past 12,000 years. During this period it has built up an enviable collection including a beautiful Ahrensburgian flint tool (the oldest man-made item found on the island), the only illicit whisky still ever discovered on Islay (surely a must see for the tens of thousands of whisky aficionados who travel to Islay every year?), and many poignant items from the twin tragedies of the Otranto and Tuscania disasters of 1918.

The Gordon Booth Library, located at the rear of the museum, also houses a collection of 1,800 texts devoted to Islay and its rich cultural heritage, including many rare books.

Finally, there is a small shop at the front desk selling books, local crafts and a number of Museum-specific souvenirs.

The Museum is open 10.30-4.30 Monday to Friday between Easter and the end of October. However, visits outwith office hours can be accommodated. Please contact us at islaymuseum@gmail.com to arrange a suitable day and time.