Law's Close ~ The Merchant's House
Central Fife
Law’s Close is an A-Listed 16thC Merchant’s House, at the east end of Kirkcaldy High Street, The building as we know it today is thought to have been constructed by the the ship-owning family of David and Agnes Law, who are the earliest known owners from the late 1500s, hence ‘Law’s Close’.
Used for a variety of purposes over the centuries the building fell into disrepair in the 20thC. Despite its long history the house had had no prior restoration and its core structure and garden had remained largely intact. So inside a series of major architectural discoveries and rare surviving examples of 16th and 17th century interior decoration were made during restoration.
The building was acquired by the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust in 1986 and painstakingly restored by them. Over the next 20 years, SHBT brought much of the building back to its former splendour, restoring key features such as timber panelling, 16thC painted ceilings, a late 17thC plaster work ceiling and a 17thC wall painting of a ship.
The restoration was completed in 2005 by Architects Simpson & Brown at a cost of £1,300,000. Today, Law’s Close is operated by SHBT as a commercial business and retail hub and is home to a variety of successful small businesses.
Both the building and garden, with outdoor seating, will be open with family friendly activities and the Kirkcaldy Civic Society will have a stall on site.
Facilities
Additional Access Information
Due to the age and character of the building, it is not easy to navigate with limited mobility and it is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. Seating is available throughout the building.
On Street Parking
Gallery
Key Information
NO BOOKING REQUIRED.
Stewards will be present at the venue.
Where to find us
Address
- 339-343 High Street
- Kirkcaldy
- KY1 1JL
