Museums highlights from 2025

Throughout 2025, our museums hosted a diverse range of exhibitions celebrating local heritage, creativity, and stories. Displays explored the rich history of Dunbar Town House, showcased treasures from the council art collection, and paid tribute to local D-Day veteran Charlie Horne.

We were proud to exhibit works by Ukrainian artists, displays from Martha Ellis, Kenneth Wilson, Fisherrow-born artist and musician James Burnet Munro (1925–1990) and his family, NorthLight Arts, and the European Land Art Festival. Young people across East Lothian inspired us with climate-action-themed artworks, while another exhibition delved into the fascinating history of Dunbar High Street shop fronts. A particular highlight was an extraordinary collection of Scottish artworks generously loaned by a local collector.

Many of these exhibitions were researched and developed by local individuals and groups, with our team providing support every step of the way.

Alongside our vibrant exhibition programme, we delivered events as part of Doors Open Day, the East Lothian Walking Festival, Dunbar Art Route, and Archaeology and Local History Fortnight. We celebrated local industries with Brick Day and Pottery Day and even hosted an Escape Room designed by S2 pupils from Dunbar Grammar School - a real crowd-pleaser!

2025 at a glance:

Visitors: 29,235 in total (23,973 adults and 5,262 children/young people), including 39 school and learner groups

Loan boxes: 33 boxes used, reaching around 250 adults and 840 children

Events: 31 for children, young people, and families; 27 for adults

Collections: 68 new objects accessioned

Exhibitions: 17 exhibitions, 10 of which were community-led - each the result of countless hours of collaboration

Volunteering: Over 900 volunteer hours supporting front-of-house, research, collections work, and more

Visitor feedback:

• 84% rated John Muir’s Birthplace as “very good”
• Around 60% said their visit to John Muir’s Birthplace inspired lifestyle changes in response to the climate emergency
• 94% rated Prestongrange Museum as “very good” or “good”

We’re excited for a busy and fun 2026, but for now, we hope you enjoy this snapshot of a great year!