IRVINE’S Burns Museum has been awarded a Four Star grading by Visit Scotland.

The venue of a Robert Burns Club that dates back to 1826 has received a Four Star grading from VisitScotland.

The Wellwood Burns Centre and Museum, home of the Irvine Burns Club, was upgraded from three stars by Visit Scotland’s Quality Assurance (QA) Scheme in recognition of its excellent standards.

The QA Scheme is a benchmark for quality across the tourism industry and operates across accommodation, visitor attractions and food sectors.

Located in the heart of Irvine, the attraction has undergone a major refurbishment and installed new external signage, as well as upgrading its website and enhancing the visitor experience.

These changes played a key role in the museum receiving a Four Star grading.

Dating back to 1826, the museum offers a range of exhibits, artwork and information relating to the life and work of Scotland’s National Bard. Members of the club also volunteer their services to give visitors guided tours and more information about Burns’ life in Irvine and the historic club.

Robert Burns moved to Irvine in 1781 as a 22-year-old farmer and stayed until the spring of 1782. While in Irvine, his introduction to the Scots poetry of Robert Fergusson provided the inspiration to write poetry in his mother tongue.

Bill Nolan, Honorary Secretary of Irvine Burns, said: “Irvine Burns Club was delighted and honoured at being awarded a Four-Star grading for our Wellwood Burns Museum.

“Receiving an enhanced grading for a museum that is totally run by volunteers is testimony to the imagination and effort that we put into improving this ‘Wellwood Experience’ for our visitors.

Gordon Smith, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: “Congratulations to everyone at the Wellwood Burns Centre and Museum on this fantastic achievement.

“It is a testament to the hard work and passion of the Irvine Burns Club who have made this attraction into a wonderful visitor experience.”

For more information visit https://irvineburnsclub.org