After almost 3 years of careful restoration, Cowane’s Hospital has re-opened. Our restoration photo gallery tracks the project from start to finish and reveals some fascinating finds.
The Cowane’s Hospital Building and Parterre Gardens are available for exclusive use hire for conferences and other events. With the Church of the Holy Rude next door, there is also no better location for your wedding.
Our volunteers share our passion for history and heritage, and help us preserve the legacy of John Cowane. Get in touch if you would like to find out more about volunteering with Cowane’s.
A Trust Since 1637
The legacy of
John Cowane
Dating from 1636, Cowane’s Hospital takes its name from its benefactor John Cowane, who came from a family of wealthy merchants. When John died in 1633 he left much of his fortune to build “ane hospital or almshous” which supported up to 12 elderly members of Stirling’s merchants’ guild.
Established in 1637, Cowane’s Hospital Trust is Scotland’s oldest surviving charitable Trust. The Trust recently undertook a major conservation project to conserve the historic fabric of the Cowane’s Hospital building. In addition to looking after the building, the Trust provides relief for those in need by reason of age, ill-health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage through the provision of housing, and in particular special needs housing, in Stirling.
The history and legacy of John Cowane is now documented through a permanent exhibition, displayed within the Main Hall of the Hospital Building. Come and discover for yourself the history of this wonderful Hospital Building, discover the ‘Secrets In The Stones’ and follow the ‘John Cowane Trail’.
Testimonials
Cowane’s Restoration
385+ years
Since the launch of Cowane’s Hospital
“This building will serve the local residents to tell the story of John Cowane, and will act as a learning hub locally”
Christine Simpson, Former Chair
Cowane’s Trust (2017-2022)
“A real jewel, a treasure at the Top of the Town of Stirling. A most remarkable place”
Ben Tindall, Principal Architect
Benjamin Tindall Architects