Wardlaw Museum

The Wardlaw Museum stands beside the sea in St Andrews, Fife. It belongs to the University of St Andrews and holds more than 115,000 objects in four galleries. A new research studio and a viewing terrace over St Andrews Bay were added after refurbishment. The museum also has a Learning Loft for workshops and an extended gift shop. Temporary shows now have more space, and a research studio lets staff study the collections on site. The galleries trace the university’s story from its start in 1410 to today. ‘Scotland’s First University’ tells of the early years. ‘Living and Learning’ looks at student life, gowns and societies. ‘Seeing and Believing’ shows ideas from science, theology and the arts, with figures like James Gregory and John Napier. The fourth gallery hosts changing displays, from wartime art to the history of medicine. Three collections are recognised as nationally important: historic instruments, chemistry and the university’s heritage. Visitors find the three medieval ceremonial maces on display. The oldest, made in 1416, shows saints and coats of arms. Another mace from 1461 is praised for its fine silverwork. The Great Astrolabe of 1575 and a collection of 70 medals from the Silver Arrow Competition are also highlights. A stained glass window for Thomas Chalmers and an early reflecting telescope by James Short can be seen. The museum occasionally shows one of the six papal bulls that founded the university in 1413.