Burns cottage: Seven facts about Robert Burns first home

Located in Alloway, the home is a throwback to what homes were like back in the 18th century.

You might know a lot about Rabbie, but how much do you know about Ayr's oldest house?

Here are seven facts to wrap your head around.

1- Who built the house

The home was built by Robert Burns' father, William Burness in 1757.

Burns cottage

2- Robert Burns was born in the house

As was traditional back then, Robert Burns' mother, Agnes Broun gave birth to the future poet in the home on January 25, 1759. 

3- The house was sold and used as a pub

After spending his first seven years of life in the cottage, Robert's father sold the house to the Incorporation of Shoemakers in Ayr, who then leased it out for use as a pub.

Burns cottage

4- It was home to more than just Robert Burns and his family

The Burns family would often enjoy family meals around the kitchen in the company of their many farm animals.

5- It had to be extended when it was a pub

Due to the popularity of the pub shortly after Robert Burns' death in 1796, the pub which occupied the builidng at the time had to be extended to keep up with demand of visitors. Sadly, a lot of the extension is no longer there.

Burns cottage

6- It was sold and refurbished at the end of the 19th century

In 1881, trustees of the monument purchased Burns Cottage, and spent the next twenty years restoring it to its original condition. In 1900, the neighbouring pavilion was added- later known as Burns Cottage Museum.

7- The cottage is due to reopen to visitors

In line with current government guidance, Burns Cottage will reopen to visitors on April 30, along with the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. More visitor information can be found here.