Walk The Past of Paisley
Houston Kiltmakers store is located in the historical weaving town of Paisley. If you are visiting the shop why not check out some of the great tourist destinations on our doorstep! There is a wealth of attractions in Paisley, with many posing great cultural and historical significance.
What to see in Paisley
Paisley’s history is vast and varied. From witch hunts in the 17th century to the world-renowned Paisley Pattern, there are pieces of history sprinkled all throughout the town.
While the weaving industry is no longer an industrial powerhouse in Paisley (the last mill closed in 1993), remnants of the historic industry remain around the town.
Open: Wednesday and Saturday: 12.00 – 16.00, April – September
Admission: FREE
Built around the 1740’s, Sma’ Shot Cottages are a fully restored example of a traditional weaver’s cottage with Loom workroom and living quarters. Take a step back in time over 250 years and get a feel of what it would have been like to be working and living as a weaver in the 18th century!
Paisley Museum and Art Gallery
Closed for refurbishments: Set to re-open 2022
Open: Tuesday to Saturday (and public holidays): 11.00 – 16.00 and Sunday: 14.00-17.00
Admission: FREE
Situated directly across the road from Houston Kiltmakers, Paisley Museum and Art Gallery offers a wealth of treasures from ancient Egyptian artefacts as well as reminders of our industrial past and our cultural heritage.
Also on the site of the Museum is the Coats Observatory, only 1 of 4 public Observatories in the country. Find more details about tours and Winter viewing’s here.
Open: Wednesday and Saturday: 12.00 – 16.00
Admission: FREE
Many Paisley buddies know that their great-grannies and grannies (sometimes even mammies!) worked in the mill. Undeniably it was a huge part of the towns economy and generations of families worked there throughout the years. Housed in the mile end mill building and staffed by volunteers (many of whom are ex-mill workers), the Paisley thread mill museum offers the chance to see many items that have been donated by people who were connected with the thread mills and includes photographs, mill machinery, samples of products made there as well as sewing artefacts.
Open: Monday to Saturday: 10.00 – 15.30
Admission: FREE
Constructed in 1163 and given the status of Abbey in 1245, Paisley Abbey has a deep historical past within the town. Sir William Wallace is widely believed to have been educated for some time as a boy at the Abbey. Most recently,14th Century tunnels have been rediscovered underneath the Abbey.
Open: Viewing by arrangement: Contact: 0141 889 9980 (church) or 0141 587 8992 (secretary)
Admission: FREE
This spectacular church with its distinctive crown steeple can be seen in the skyline from all across Paisley. Completed in 1894, the church can host a congregation of over 1,000 people. The iconic organ found in the church is one of a few originals found in Britain that have not since been modified.
Places to Eat in Paisley
Located just around the corner from Houston’s, this chippy has been serving the people of Paisley for over 100 years!
An Italian restaurant offering Italian classics in a relaxed environment. They also run a cafe directly opposite Houston’s where you can enjoy a lighter snack!
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Paisley is home to a host of attractions that are well worth a visit. Make a trip to Houston’s a day out and take in some of the sights around town!