Visit
See some of Paisley’s finest architectural treasures and learn about its rich history while exploring these town centre gems.
Paisley has an easily-walkable historic centre with Scotland’s largest concentration of listed buildings outwith Edinburgh.
All of these venues are 10-15 minutes walking distance apart and you’ll find plenty of places to stop for a meal, a snack or a drink on your journey.
Please note that some of these locations are currently closed to the public. Find out more below:
Coats Paisley
8 Wellmeadow St, Paisley PA1 2EE
This majestic building has been part of the Paisley skyline for over 120 years. The stunning crown-shaped steeple rises 200ft above the ground. A popular venue for weddings and events.
Paisley Museum
High Street, Paisley PA1 2BA
Currently undergoing a £42m transformation project to create a world-class visitor destination showcasing Paisley’s people, stories and Pattern.
Coats Observatory
49 Oakshaw Street West, Paisley PA1 2DE
Scotland’s oldest public observatory is part of the museum complex and also currently closed for major refurbishment. But any stroll in the Oakshaw area of town should include the observatory as a must-see sight.
Oakshaw Trinity Church
6 School Wynd, Paisley PA1 2DB
Located at the highest point of Paisley’s townscape, this is a fantastic viewpoint. Legend has it that after a stonemason fell to his death, workmates carved the outline of spectacles and handkerchief into the cobbles as a tribute.
Paisley Abbey
Abbey Close, Paisley PA1 1JG
The jewel in Paisley’s crown. Admire the stonework of the rare 10th Century Barochan Cross. See if you can spot the gargoyle modelled on a monster from the film Alien.
Paisley Town Hall
Abbey Close, Paisley PA1 1JF
Built in 1873 in memory of George Clark of the famous threadmaking family. This magnificent building is much-loved by Paisley people. Currently undergoing major internal refurbishment.
St Mirin’s Cathedral
Incle Street, Paisley PA1 1HR
This spectacular building became a cathedral in 1948. Named for the patron saint of Paisley, it is the mother church of the diocese of the town.
Paisley Thread Mill Museum
12 Seedhill Road, Paisley PA1 1JS
Explore the social and industrial history of the Paisley thread mills. Machinery, photographs, product samples and sewing artefacts all on display.
Anchor Mill
7 Thread Street, Paisley PA1 1JR
This magnificent building is one of the most photographed in Paisley. A 21st Century restoration project made it a fantastic place to live.
St Matthew’s Church
Gordon Street, Paisley PA1 1XL
Built in 1901, this stunning Building of National Importance has been called ‘the most significant Art Nouveau church in Europe’.
Russell Institute
30 Causeyside Street, Paisley PA1 1UN
This Art Deco building was donated in 1927 by Miss Agnes Russell to the women and children of Paisley. Visitors always enjoy the ornate statues on the exterior depicting some of the ailments once treated inside.
Paisley Arts Centre
15 New Street, Paisley PA1 1EZ
Formerly the Laigh Kirk building, with a fascinating history. John Witherspoon was minister from 1758-68 before becoming one of the founding fathers of the United States of America. Currently undergoing major internal refurbishment.
Sma’ Shot Cottages
15 Shuttle Street, Paisley PA1 2HZ
See how people lived during two distinct periods in Paisley’s weaving history. The complex shows how life was for weavers 250 years ago and also the 19th Century residence of a mill foreman.
View the walking trail on this embedded map:
