About Brora Heritage
Brora Heritage brings together museum exhibitions, local stories, community heritage and Highland hospitality within the beautifully restored Old Clyne School.
About Brora Heritage
Discover Brora’s unique Highland history
Located within the beautifully restored Old Clyne School, Brora Heritage is a year-round visitor attraction combining a purpose-designed museum, the welcoming Clyne Kitchen eatery, a shop showcasing the best of the Highlands and community heritage spaces.
Our museum explores the geology, industries and stories that shaped Brora — from Jurassic-age landscapes and prehistoric finds to coal mining, salt pans, whisky, tweed, bricks and more.
We also share the powerful stories of the Highland Clearances, the life of the parish school and the people who lived and worked in our remarkable village.
The Old Clyne School
A building with a long history
The Old Clyne School was built in 1863 and served as the parish school until 1903.
Following its closure, the building was later redeveloped into flats and was last occupied in 1971 before gradually falling into disrepair.
After more than 15 years of planning, fundraising and restoration work, the building was transformed through a major community-led project which secured around £5 million in funding.
In Summer 2025, Brora Heritage opened its doors, creating a renewed place where Brora’s stories can be preserved, shared and celebrated for generations to come.
Clyne Heritage Society
The society behind Brora Heritage
Founded in 1998, Clyne Heritage Society is a passionate, volunteer-led organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting Brora’s unique history.
From 2016 to 2023, we operated Highland Council’s Brora Heritage Centre, located just outside the village, on their behalf.
In Summer 2025, we launched a new chapter at the restored Old Clyne School, becoming fully independent and creating a sustainable year-round heritage destination under the Brora Heritage banner.
Together, our volunteers, staff and supporters continue to deliver exhibitions, events, talks, guided walks, archaeological projects and community activities for both local people and visitors.
What Makes Brora Unique
A heritage shaped by nature and industry
Coal Mining
Brora’s coal mine was the most northerly in the UK and one of the oldest, powering local industry and earning the village the nickname “Electric City”.
Salt Pans
Ancient salt production played an important role in the local economy and remains one of Brora’s most important archaeological stories.
Whisky
Brora’s whisky heritage remains internationally recognised, rooted in generations of craftsmanship and Highland innovation.
Tweed & Wool
Textile production and wool processing formed an important part of Brora’s industrial identity.
Our Achievements
2010
Association for Industrial Archaeology ‘Main Volunteer Award for Fieldwork and Recording’.
Scottish Parliament
Invited to speak at the Scottish Parliament during Scottish Environment Week.
680+
Visitors attended our 25th anniversary heritage events programme in 2023, including a keynote speech by Professor Sir Tom Devine.
The Clyne Chronicle
Our annual magazine, The Clyne Chronicle is now requested by the National Library of Scotland
£5 Million Restoration
Investment secured to restore the Old Clyne School and create Brora Heritage for future generations.
Looking to the Future
Preserving Brora’s stories for future generations
We are deeply passionate about Brora’s unique heritage and committed to sharing it in meaningful and accessible ways.
With the continued support of our community, volunteers, visitors and partners, Brora Heritage will continue to grow as a place where local history, culture and stories can be explored, celebrated and preserved for generations to come.
Accessibility
We strive to make Brora Heritage welcoming, accessible and meaningful for all visitors.
For more information, please visit our Accessibility page or contact us directly before your visit on 01408 622024 or email info@broraheritage.com