This quality (4 star tourist board rating) attraction is at Creetown just 7 miles outside Newton Stewart in Dumfries and Galloway region of Scotland. There is something for everyone, young and old, with a fantastic collection of gems, fossils and rocks gathered from around the world. It is very educational and well laid out and labelled. In addition to the glass displays there are plenty of "hands-on" rocks and items.
There is also a crystal cave to walk through, the professor's study with a film show and numerous reference books and magazines to read, a working lapidary workshop and an excellent restaurant serving lunches, coffee etc. There is a shop selling various gemstones, nice jewellery and jewellery making items.
The museum is run by the family responsible for much of the collection and is very family friendly – and wheelchair accessible. It is open all year, see website for times etc: www.gemrock.net
Cost was £3.50 for OAPs but you can visit again free within the next 14 days – we went twice during our week self catering in the area. You can visit the restaurant separately with no charge.