Colzium House & Museum
Located in Kilsyth, Colzium has something for everyone – whether you’re here to unwind, explore or learn – open all year round and free to visit.
Wander through centuries of history at Colzium House & Museum, visit the remains of a 15th-century tower house, and enjoy seasonal events, nature walks, and a children’s adventure playground.
Following the renovations in 2017, the former Clock Theatre adjoining the walled garden was converted into a visitor centre and garden café, not only providing a picturesque setting to enjoy some alfresco drinks and treats, but also featuring audio visual displays about Colzium’s colourful history. A visit to the centre is essential to look back and learn more about the estate’s past and to look forward and plan future visits across Kilsyth, the wider Kevin Valley and all attractions.
Why not relax alfresco and take the time to enjoy a freshly brewed coffee, in terrace seating overlooking the tranquil walled garden.
Where to find us
Colzium-Lennox Estate
Stirling Road
Kilsyth
G65 0PY
Phone: 01698 403110
Email: museums@northlan.gov.uk
Opening Times
Monday – Sunday, 10.30am – 3pm
The Colzium-Lennox Estate is situated to the east end of Kilsyth (Denny/Bonnybridge/Falkirk end) just off Stirling Road. Enter by the stonework gateway (signposted) just before/after the 30mph limit – depending from which way you are arriving.
Colzium House was once the seat of the Edmonstone family but became the property of the Burgh of Kilsyth after the Second World War. Built in 1783, it was substantially enlarged in 1861. Much of the original building was pulled down in the late 1940s, due to dry rot, but the Victorian frontage and wings survive to form the house we see today.
The museum comprises a single room on the second floor of the house, converted out of the former chapel. Displays relate to the heritage of the surrounding area and include objects from the nearby castles of Colzium and Kilsyth as well as photographs and artefacts from the domestic and industrial settings of the locality.
Other local historic features include the site of Kilsyth Castle, to the west of Colzium House by Allanfauld Road. Another 15th Century tower house, it survived until 1650 when it was attacked and burnt by Cromwell’s troops as they advanced north. The remains provided the district with a free quarry for many years. Some carved stonework is now in Colzium House museum.
To the east of the estate are Banton Loch and the village of Banton, with its historic Swan Inn. The area formed the site of the 17th Century Battle of Kilsyth and was latterly known for its Victorian brickworks, samples of which are in the museum.
The Colzium Lennox Estate is rich in history and is open throughout the year. Features of the estate include the excavated remains of a 15th Century L-plan tower house, once the seat of the Livingstons of Linlithgow but demolished in 1703. Nearby is a traditional Scottish ice-house c.1680 which has been restored and is open for public inspection. Also on the estate is a fine walled garden with numerous interesting shrubs and trees. During working hours Parks staff are normally on hand to discuss the plants and respond to queries.
Following its 2017 renovation, the former Clock Theatre at Colzium become a visitor centre and garden café offering alfresco refreshments, scenic views of the walled garden, and engaging audiovisual displays on the estate’s rich history.
Accessibility
We aim to make every visit comfortable and enjoyable:
- Disabled access to house and visitor centre
- Accessible WC
- Free car parking nearby, including disabled spaces
If you have any questions about accessibility, please call 01698 274590 or email.
Other information
School & Group Visits
Summer term-time school workshops and holiday activities regularly take place.
The visitor centre and café are currently open. Colzium House & Museum is not normally open to the public, unless by prior appointment. The house can be booked for weddings, conferences and private parties. The museum can be opened on these occasions for guests to visit. For access to the museum when the house is closed, prior arrangements would have to be made through the museums service. Admission is free.
