Historic Buildings

Saving the Home of Auld Lang Syne

We will save Ellisland, the only farm built by our national poet Robert Burns, where he wrote Auld Lang Syne, the international anthem to friendship. We will bring the spirit of Burns – love, kindness and equality – into the 21st century and widen access with a vibrant programme of events, activities and artist residencies. We will restore the 1788 cottage, creating an immersive visitor experience, and develop a gallery to display the collection, which is at risk in the deteriorating buildings. The barn will be sensitively adapted as a Centre for Song, so future generations are inspired by Burns’s “sweet poetic ground.” We will increase visitor numbers and develop new income streams to protect the built heritage, collection and outdoor spaces, including woods, paths and fields created by Burns. This will increase economic prosperity in South Scotland and enhance wellbeing with skills training, jobs and volunteering opportunities, including for vulnerable people.