IRVINE Burns Club is preparing to mark a major milestone this year as it celebrates the 200th anniversary of its founding in 1826.
Established by 12 local men who first met in Milne’s Inn - now The Crown on Irvine High Street - the club has upheld its commitment to honouring Scotland’s National Bard for two centuries.
The bicentenary programme will begin with the club’s annual celebration on Saturday, January 24 in the Volunteer Rooms, where President Donald Wilson will deliver the Immortal Memory.
Tickets are priced at £37, with further information available via irvineburnsclub@gmail.com or the club’s website www.irvineburnsclub.org.
On Sunday, January 25, incoming President Peter Latham will be formally ‘kirked’ at Irvine Old Parish Church.
Later that afternoon, at 3pm, President Donald Wilson will lay a floral tribute at the Burns Statue on Irvine Moor - the only major public statue of Robert Burns in North Ayrshire.
Provost Anthea Dickson and Burns Clubs from across the region have been invited to attend.
The club’s long-running school visit programme remains a central part of its work. Since 2006, almost 6,000 primary pupils have visited the Wellwood Burns Centre & Museum.
In 2026, around 500 pupils from Irvine, Dreghorn, Springside and Troon will take part, learning about Burns and, in particular, his time in Irvine.
Donald said: “The cub is proud of all its past achievements and we are looking forward to all the events planned to celebrate our bicentenary."
Throughout 2026, the club will host a series of concerts, open days and exhibitions to mark its bicentenary.
Event updates will be posted on the club’s website and Facebook page. Free individual or group visits to Wellwood can be booked through the club’s website.
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