Paisley Museum is being transformed into a world-class destination which will retell the town’s story to the world and help bring huge volumes of new visitors and footfall to the town. The work is the flagship project within Renfrewshire Council’s wider investment in venues and the town centre aimed...

Something Special Is Coming: Paisley Museum Reimagined

Paisley Museum has long been one of the town's most treasured institutions — and it's about to become one of the most exciting museums in Scotland. A spectacular £68.7 million transformation is currently underway, with the reimagined museum expected to reopen to the public in the second half of 2026.

The wait is going to be very much worth it.

A World-Class Museum in the Making

International architects AL_A have completely reimagined the museum's historic building, creating a striking new cultural hub at the heart of Paisley. When it opens, visitors will be greeted by a stunning red glazed entrance hall and courtyard, a brand-new gallery wing, dedicated learning spaces, a café, a shop, a garden gallery, and beautifully designed social spaces — including a quiet room, prayer room, and changing facilities.

Accessibility has been central to the design, with lifts, ramps, and gender-neutral toilets all part of the new layout. This is a museum built to welcome absolutely everyone.

The Collection: Paisley's Story, Told Beautifully

Inside, more than 100 story displays will bring 1,290 objects to life across 60 digital displays — celebrating Paisley's remarkable history in a way that's engaging, modern, and deeply human.

The jewel in the crown is the world-renowned textile collection, home to 1,200 Paisley shawls — an internationally significant collection that tells the story of how Paisley became the centre of the global textile industry. The iconic teardrop pattern, rooted in centuries of Kashmir craftsmanship, became synonymous with Paisley itself, and the new museum will honour that legacy with a dedicated interactive weaving display that brings the craft vividly to life.

Can't Wait? Visit The Secret Collection

While the museum doors remain closed, you don't have to miss out entirely. Head to 9 High Street and discover Paisley: The Secret Collection — the first publicly accessible museum store on a UK High Street. It's a genuinely unique experience, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the museum's treasures while the big transformation takes shape.

Something to Look Forward To

With 125,000 visits expected every year once it opens, the reimagined Paisley Museum is set to become a landmark not just for the town, but for Scotland as a whole. Whether you're a history lover, a textiles enthusiast, or simply curious about Paisley's incredible story, this is one opening you'll want to be there for.

Keep an eye on paisleymuseum.org for the latest news on the opening.

Paisley Museum

Paisley Museum, Scotland’s first municipal museum, designed by John Honeyman, was opened in 1871.

Peter Coats, partner in the large firm of thread makers J&P Coats, as the donor. This, together with the considerable collections amassed by the Paisley Philosophical society since 1808, made the venture possible.

The building also held a full library. In 1882, art and sculpture galleries were added, again paid for by Sir Peter Coats. The building was once more extended in 1901 and 1933 and included Library extensions.

New shawl galleries were added in 1974. In addition to its other major collections, the museum, naturally, has the finest collection of Paisley shawls in the world.

High Street Paisley

PA1 2BA

Tel: 0300 300 1210

email: museums.els@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Web: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk