The John Paul Jones Cottage Museum is located on the Arbigland Estate near Kirkbean in the historical county of Kirkcudbrightshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. The cottage is where John Paul Jones, hero of the American Revolutionary War and founder of the United States Navy, was born in 1747.
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If you're thinking “John Paul Jones - who’s he?” you’re not alone! 3 of the 5 people in our group hadn’t heard of him before visiting this little museum. It tells the story of this Naval hero who was born and lived his early life at the small cottage that forms part of the museum.
The museum is tucked away down some narrow lanes (recommend using What 3 Words to find the entrance: comet.lump.sprouting) but there's ample parking and a lovely view out to the Solway Firth.
The museum is very small. It's essentially two rooms and the cottage. One room has a large screen that plays an informative video about John Paul Jones’ life.
The other larger room contains an assortment of artefacts from the time, an impressive model ship, information boards and some sailor and pirate dressing up outfits for little ones. There's also a very small souvenir shop section.
We watched the video, looked at the artefacts and info and had a good look around the cottage and spent around an hour and a half there.
We thought the museum could maybe benefit from some more interactive elements, but unfortunately the VR headset wasn’t working when we visited. The video was interesting, but looked a little dated (1989). Some more information inside the cottage itself could enhance the experience. We also thought a little larger selection in the gift shop would be good.
This is an interesting little museum to pass an hour or so. We all know who John Paul...
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Well worth taking the time to go off the beaten track to find this museum. The John Paul Jones Birthplace museum is of historical interest and importance. The story of John Paul's maritime exploits is quite amazing and maybe slightly embarrassing to the British. With out doubt John Paul Jones could have been a revered Admiral in the British navy. The curator of the museum is very knowledgeable on the subject. The tour is delivered in a friendly way and without any agenda to adhere to. You are free to explore the cottage and grounds at your own pace. There are two very informative videos to watch, one in the museum and a further one in the cottage. The museum video is available to buy. There are some very nice ship models and interesting artefacts. You are free to spend as much time here as you wish but an hour would be a leisurely tour. There is ample parking but be aware that the museum is approached along narrow roads so take care and allow plenty of time. The museum is about 5 minutes drive from the main road at Kirkbean and this is approximately 20 mins drive...
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This place is sacred to the US Navy and all those that cherish freedom and liberty. Located on one of the most beautiful places on earth, allow yourself a couple of hours at least to learn about this incredible man. Bring a lunch and your favorit drink, and enjoy this beautiful spot at one of The Museum's picnice tables that have a spectactular view of the ocean!! Just a couple of minutes away, visit the town of Kickbean where John Paul Jones went to school and attended church. His father is buried in the old church cemetery (now The Auld-Kirk Luxury B&B run by Vanessa Mounsey, auldkirk.scot). A bit off the main road but well worth it for the experience of...
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