Overview

The museum is a starting point on a journey through these themes. It combines a wealth of information about some of Sutherland’s more turbulent historical events, such as the Highland Clearances, with a varied collection of artefacts spanning thousands of years. Domestic objects are contextualised in the reconstructed croft, byre, smithy and shop, where the local way of life is presented as it was 150 years ago. Visitors can also travel back in time to 1813, where, with the use of innovative, immersive, virtual world technology, you can walk (or fly!) around the pre-clearances township of Caen and enter authentic recreations of the original longhouses and outbuildings based on a recent excavation.

Timespan extends beyond the boundaries of the museum walls. The newly-developed, multi-platform Clearance Trail App features an interactive trip along the beautiful Strath of Kildonan, where both virtual and actual users can retrace the arduous, historic journey made by many Highlanders. For those with further interest in local history, the archive is a valuable resource and is open to all. Different heritage themes are investigated yearly, and shared publicly through a range of talks, walks and activities.

The attraction aims to encourage creativity, collaboration and communication in the Far North of Scotland, one of the most remote areas of Europe. It supports local, national and international artists through a continuously evolving programme of exhibitions and residencies, through the microsite Artlands North, an interactive map of studios, artworks and galleries in the Northern Highlands and Islands, Timespan showcases the creative landscape of the Far North and connects local artists and makers to a global, digital audience. Our gallery provides the only public showcase for contemporary art in Sutherland. Through a series of events, workshops, discussions and films, it encourages a rigorous, inspiring discourse around the works displayed. Everyone is invited and welcome to participate.

Timespan has a picturesque Riverside Café overlooking the Helmsdale River and a sheltered, sunny, terraced community herb garden. Local types of stone feature in the Geology garden, with nearby outdoor seating for alfresco afternoon teas, coffees and light lunches. Timespan’s shop sells books, cards and prints and has many beautiful gift ideas, sourced from local artisans.

Admission

Timespan is fully accessible by wheelchair. Staff are always available to help visitors. Inside the building there is a lift to reach the first floor gallery space. There is an induction loop throughout the building for the hard of hearing.

Museum Admission: Adults £4 | Concessions £3.00 | Children £2.00 | Family tickets £10.00