Discover how Glencairn Museum’s architecture and gardens tell stories of family, faith, and heritage in Bryn Athyn, PA. This guided tour includes access to a rare Ukrainian textile exhibition.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
75 minutes
Fitness Level
Basic mobility needed; comfortable walking on level and garden paths required
Wildlife
History
Glencairn was built by Raymond Pitcairn in the early 20th century, reflecting his dedication to craftsmanship and storytelling through architecture.
Conservation
The museum’s gardens are maintained with native plant species and sustainable water practices, emphasizing environmental respect.
Glencairn Museum
Discover how Glencairn Museum’s architecture and gardens tell stories of family, faith, and heritage in Bryn Athyn, PA. This guided tour includes access to a rare Ukrainian textile exhibition.
Glencairn Museum is a historic museum located in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania, housed in a castle-like home built by Raymond Pitcairn. The museum preserves and interprets a broad collection of religious artifacts, manuscripts, stained glass, metalwork, mosaics, stone carvings, and woodcraft displayed across galleries and family spaces. Glencairn offers a mix of guided tours, family programs, hands-on workshops, seasonal exhibitions, and musical recitals that connect visitors to art, history, and craftsmanship.
Educational offerings include the Medieval Life Education Program for ages 7–12, the Time Travelers family backpack tour for ages 5–12, and workshops such as Adorn Like a Roman that teach historical techniques in jewelry making. Public programs range from the 90-minute Highlights Tour with access to the Tower, to self-guided First Floor access during open house hours (1:00–4:00 pm). Special thematic tours include Craftsmanship at Glencairn: Five Artists, Sacred Adornment Tour, From Tower to Garden, and the annual Christmas in the Castle Tour, often paired with exhibitions like Rushnyky and World Nativities.
Glencairn also hosts concerts, notably the Elizabeth Pitcairn and Friends recital of chamber repertoire. The museum’s programming emphasizes authentic objects, skilled craftsmanship, and interpretive tours led by trained guides. Visitors can expect a combination of gallery-focused exhibitions and immersive, family-friendly experiences. Glencairn’s curated collections, historic architecture, and range of educational formats support its reputation as a cultural and learning destination in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania.
Visitors can see spaces such as the Bird Room and Great Hall, with exhibitions including Cardboard Chronicles and Rushnyky on display and history videos.
Location
Bryn Athyn, PA
Historic museum campus
Tours Offered
10
Guided and self-guided options
Family Programs
Ages 5–12
Interactive learning for kids
Open House
1:00–4:00 pm
First Floor self-guided access
Choose a guided Highlights Tour, a family backpack adventure, or a hands-on workshop and experience Glencairn’s art, history, and craftsmanship.
Reserve Your Tour in Advance
Tours have limited spots and fill quickly, so book ahead to secure your preferred time.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The tour covers both indoor spaces and garden paths, requiring light walking on uneven surfaces.
Allow Time for Exhibition Viewing
Plan an extra 15-20 minutes to fully appreciate the Rushnyky: Sacred Ukrainian Textiles display.
Mind Photography Rules
Photography policies may vary indoors; check with guides before snapping photos inside the museum.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive footwear helps navigate uneven garden paths and indoor floors.
Light jacket or sweater
Keeps you comfortable during cooler weather, especially in outdoor garden sections.
spring|fall|winter
Weather-appropriate rain gear
Rain showers are common in warmer months, so a raincoat or umbrella can keep you dry.
spring|summer
Camera or smartphone
Capture key moments and details, but respect indoor photography guidelines.