Update: We were so sorry to hear the news that the Gem Rock Museum is closing its doors for the last time in October 2026. This museum has been a local gem (literally!) for 45 years.
39 miles W ~54 min drive DG8 7HJ
The Gem Rock Museum in Creetown is a unique and fascinating collection of gems, crystals, minerals and fossils. It’s a relatively small family run museum, but has an amazing amount of rare gems and rocks, many more than we expected!
We all enjoyed it, adults and children. Our youngest opted for the hardest worksheet out of the ones on offer, which kept him occupied the entire time, and as a result, he was rewarded with a small piece of quartz as a prize at the end.
The collection displays many interesting and rare examples of crystals found in Britain, but there are also displays of specimens from around the world. You can see really interesting fossils, shells, and meteorite remnants, as well as rocks and minerals. Everything is labelled and although I’d have liked a little bit more information about some of the rocks, overall the whole collection is very well laid out.
In addition to the main room housing the collection there is also the Victorian themed study, where you can watch a video presentation about the creation of the minerals and gemstones and how they are cut, polished and crafted.
Finally, the Crystal Cave exhibits crystals in a small cave, mimicking their natural setting.
We spent a couple of hours exploring everything thoroughly, enjoying each exhibit. Then, afterwards, we relaxed in the comfy ‘Prospector’s Pantry’ tearoom and ate some delicious cakes.
The gift shop displays everything from beautiful (and very expensive) items to affordable mementos.
The Gem Rock Museum is a definite “must visit” for anyone who finds rocks and fossils fascinating, and is enjoyable and interesting for all ages.
The Gem Rock Museum is one of our top-rated rainy day trips near Sandyhills.
If you’re planning a ‘final farewell’ trip to see the collection before it closes, Serenity 22 Barend offers a cosy base for your visit- we’re just a scenic 55-minute drive along the coast. Also if you do head to Creetown, you are only a short 15 min drive from Wigtown (Scotland’s Book Town). You can easily visit both in one day trip from the lodge.
Contact, Links & Reviews
Tim & Carolyn Stephenson
The Gem Rock Museum
Chain Road, Creetown
Dumfries and Galloway
DG8 7HJ
Scotland
Web: www.gemrock.net
Tel: +44 (0)1671 820 357
Email: enquiries@gemrock.net
Planning Your Visit
39 miles W ~54 min drive DG8 7HJ
Open April to September, 7 days a week 10am – 4pm | Tickets are £8 each (children under 5 free). Opening times and other details correct at time of writing, we recommend you check direct to avoid disappointment.
Family And Wheelchair Friendly.
No dogs allowed (apart from assistance dogs).
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/vi4yTK7eNe6nggAGA
Please let us know if any details need to be updated by using the comments below or our feedback form 😊
