Drive Out Burns Tour and Lunch – 12th April 2026

Scotland Chapter Coordinator Ken Graham reports in on a visit to Ellisland Farm where Scottish poet Robert Burns lived with his one true love!

As a Chapter Coordinator it’s always refreshing when a Club member contacts you and says, ‘I’ve had an idea for a Figgy drive out and/or meet up’! I’m always happy to assist, but it’s great when someone else takes the initiative.

That’s exactly what happened when member Libby Welsh suggested a trip to Ellisland Farm and Burns museum close to her home near Dumfries.

Six Figaros signed up and we all met at 11am for tea/coffee followed by an interesting input from Cameron, one of the museum staff on the history of the farm on the banks of the River Nith which was bought by Robert Burns. The setting is beautiful, however the land wasn’t particularly fertile and was described as ‘The Poet’s Choice’, as no farmer would have bought it! This was where he wrote many of his letters, poems and songs. In fact, the desk in part of the museum is where he wrote Auld Lang Syne!

Whilst living there he married his true love Jean Armour, who, when Burns had to take a job as an exciseman to top up his earnings and involving travelling widely across the area, did most of the farming duties.

I had never heard of the farm or museum before and discovered they have a cottage – the ‘Auld Acquaintance Cottage’ available to rent out. They are involved in a major fundraising initiative to maintain and develop the facilities, to set up a cafe and, indeed, to offer more accommodation to let.

If you happen to be touring or visiting the area the farm/museum is well worth a visit.

After our tour we drove the short distance to the Friar’s Carse Hotel, (where Burns was known to have had the occasional drink!) for lunch and an opportunity to catch up as many of us hadn’t seen each other since last year’s car shows. After a delicious lunch and much ‘Figgy Chat’ we said our goodbyes and headed home, safe in the knowledge that June has a car show every weekend for us to look forward to!!

Thanks to Libby for organising, Ann, Fiona & Les, Marc & Gwyn and Heather and Reid for their support by attending.

Thanks also to Cameron for his input, guidance and assistance throughout the morning.

Enjoy the wonderful gallery of images below!