Cowane's Hospital

Referred to as ‘Auld Staney Breeks’, John Cowane was one of Stirling’s richest merchants during the mid 17th-century. Dean of the Merchant Guild, he left funds to build Cowane’s hospital, which originally acted as a place for Guild members to meet. It was constructed between 1637 - 1649 next to the Church of Holy Rude.

After its time acting as a Guildhall, Cowane’s served as a school and a hospital during epidemics.  To remind everyone of the building’s past, a statue of Cowane is perched above the entrance, while portraits of old Guild Deans pepper the walls. According to local myth, people say the statue comes to life on Hogmanay and does a jig.

• The Hospital building is currently closed to the public pending the outcome of the Charity's application to the Heritage Lottery Fund.
• For further information regarding Cowane's Hospital or to make a donation please visit www.cowanes.org.uk Donations towards the buildings upkeep and proposed restoration are welcome.
• The building can be hired for paranormal investigations, please contact hello@cowanes.org.uk for further details.
• Private viewing of the Hall for school trips, historical societies or other interested parties can be arranged by appointment. A member of the Trust’s management team or a knowledgeable volunteer will give a history of John Cowane, the Hospital and Garden together with a brief overview of the exciting plans for the restoration of the building and grounds. A small charge will apply.