Visit
Nestled in the heart of Dunoon Town Centre, the Burgh Hall is a testament to its resilience and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. Since its inception in 1874, this Scottish Baronial-style edifice has been more than just a building; it’s been the lifeblood of Dunoon’s community spirit and artistic expression.
A Historical Beacon
Designed by Glasgow architect Robert Alexander Bryden, the Dunoon Burgh Hall was initially constructed to commemorate the town’s new status as a burgh. Built through public subscription, it served as a venue for municipal offices, public gatherings, and, notably, the first theatre in Argyll. For over a century, it hosted dances, council meetings, and various local events, embedding itself into the fabric of daily life in Dunoon.
Community-Led Revival
By the early 2000s, the hall had fallen into disrepair, facing the grim prospect of demolition. However, the community rallied together, with John McAslan purchasing the building for a symbolic £1 in 2008. Collaborating with the John McAslan Family Trust, they embarked on an ambitious restoration project, raising over £3.5 million from various sources, including the Heritage Lottery Fund and Creative Scotland. The rejuvenated hall reopened in 2017, re-establishing itself as a central hub for arts and culture.
A Cultural Renaissance
Today, the Dunoon Burgh Hall thrives as a multi-functional arts centre, offering diverse exhibitions, performances, and workshops. It has showcased works by renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Robert Mapplethorpe while supporting local talents through events like the Cowal Open Studios. The hall’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its educational programs for children and young people, artist talks, and community workshops in design, film, visual arts, and literature.
Economic and Social Impact
Beyond its cultural contributions, the hall plays a significant role in bolstering the local economy. It provides employment opportunities, supports local artists, and attracts tourists, stimulating economic activity in the region. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the hall transformed into a community kitchen, exemplifying its adaptability and dedication to serving the community’s needs.
A Pillar of Community Identity
The Dunoon Burgh Hall is more than just a venue; it symbolises community resilience and unity. Its successful restoration and ongoing contributions to the town’s cultural and social landscape underscore its importance as a cornerstone of Dunoon’s identity. As it continues to evolve, the hall remains a shining example of how community-driven initiatives can revitalise and sustain the vibrancy of town centres.
Situated on the Cowal peninsula overlooking the River Clyde, it is easy to reach by car or public transport and ideally located for day trips or short breaks.
Opening hours
Our building and exhibition programme is open from Wednesday to Saturday, 11 am to 3 pm
For all things to do in Dunoon, please see our What’s on page for show times, which can vary.
Venue hire is available seven days a week. To make a booking, please email info@dunoonburghhall.org.uk.
How to get here
Dunoon Burgh Hall
195 Argyll Street
Dunoon
Argyll PA23 7DD
what3words address: ///rejoins.comfort.happily
On foot or by bike:
Catch the train at Glasgow Central Station and connect directly with Cal Mac Ferries passenger service at Gourock Station. You can travel from Glasgow to Dunoon in just one hour and ten minutes.
By Car:
Drive to Gourock and take the Western Ferries service from McInroy’s Point in Gourock. The Dunoon town centre is a 5-minute drive from the ferry terminal at Hunter’s Quay. If you’re planning your journey, you can buy discounted ferry tickets online from www.western-ferries.co.uk
Alternatively, head north from Glasgow along the Loch Lomond side and then follow the A83 over the famous “Rest and Be Thankful” to the A815 turnoff for Dunoon. The journey from Glasgow City Centre to Dunoon Town Centre will take approximately 2 hours, but there are plenty of fabulous places to stop along the way!
Parking:
There are no car park facilities onsite and limited parking spaces to the rear of the building however, there are numerous public car parks within a short walking distance of the hall, including:
- Hanover Street Car Park has free parking 24/7 and is a short walk to the rear of the building (please note this is uphill)
- Moir Street Car Park is a short walk via Church street, charges may apply
- Jane Villa Car Park, which can be found further along Argyll Street, charges may apply
By Bus:
You can plan your journey to Dunoon Burgh Hall using the route planner from West Coast Motors:
West Coast Motors – Plan Your Journey
By Ferry:
Cal Mac runs a foot passenger only ferry service from Gourock (adjacent to the train station) to Dunoon – the ferry terminal in Dunoon is 10 10-minute walk from Dunoon Burgh Hall. Check their timetable here:
Western Ferries run a car and passenger service from Gourock (McInroy’s Point) to Dunoon (Hunters Quay). The ferry terminal is a 5-minute drive from the Hall – about 1.5 miles. Check their timetable here:
Accessibility
There is a ramp at the main entrance from Argyll Street, which leads to a cafe, gallery, and toilets. A platform lift leads to our workshop area, and a passenger lift leads to the Main Hall upstairs, where events, theatre shows, etc., are held. We have a hearing loop system available for events. Please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly staff and volunteers if you need any more information or assistance.
Toilets
We have accessible toilets on both floors. They are step-free, wheelchair accessible, and have grab rails and easy-to-turn locks and taps.
Assistance dog facilities
Our venue is dog-friendly, and water bowls are available in our cafe. We also have a small garden area at the rear exit of the cafe, and for exercise, there is a small park located across from the rear of the hall.
