Funding for seasonal events and tearoom at Falkirk's Callendar House
A project to bring new seasonal events to Falkirk’s Callendar House has received a funding boost to the tune of £81,000.
Falkirk Council has received £81,857 from Museums Galleries Scotland, the national development body for the sector, to help achieve its latest initiative at the historic visitor attraction.
The local authority plans to develop a new programme of seasonal events at the venue designed to attract new audiences, increase visitor engagement and support long-term income generation.
The project is one of several across Scotland’s east coast and central belt to receive a share of the Museum Futures cash, which looks to support museums to develop new income streams, expand and improve visitor experiences and build long-term resilience in the face of ongoing financial and operational pressures.
Lucy Casot, CEO of Museums Galleries Scotland, said: “Scotland’s museums have a strong track record of adapting, innovating and collaborating in response to changing circumstances.
"What is particularly exciting about these Museum Futures awards is that they are giving organisations the time, confidence and support to build on that strength by testing new ideas, developing partnerships and finding creative ways to secure their future while continuing to serve their communities.”
In Falkirk, the council plans to deliver a series of themed after-hours and daytime experiences over the next two years inspired by the heritage and history of the house and the surrounding area, including events linked to Hallowe’en, Christmas, spring and summer celebrations.
Callendar House has also been awarded £49,553 for a separate project to modernise its tearoom operations by moving from table service to a counter-service model. This project will also involve upgrades to front-of-house equipment and kitchen facilities.
Helen Rashad, team leader of cultural services for Falkirk Council, said: “The Callendar House tea room is a much-loved destination for local communities and visitors alike.
"This funding is a vital and welcome chance to respond to visitor feedback and make improvements.
"The changes to our operations will allow us to offer better service and a wider menu to more customers, while making our catering more financially sustainable to reduce the running costs of the museum.”