Inchmahome Priory, Scotland

The priory of Inchmahome was established on the largest of the 3 islands on Lake Menteith, in 1238 by the Earl of Menteith, Walter Comyn, for a small community of the Augustinian order. There is some evidence that there was a church on the island before the priory was established.

The priory has received many notable guests. King Robert the Bruce visited three times: in 1306, 1308 and 1310. In 1358 the future King Robert II also stayed at the priory. In 1547 the priory served as a refuge for Queen Mary, aged four. The island sanctuary functioned for over 300 years.

The decline of the monastic orders in the 16th century was hastened by the fact that the heads of abbeys and priories became appointees of the local landowner, who often did not share the religious goals of the monks or ordained priests. The Scottish Reformation meant that there were no new priests being ordained, and religious land and buildings gradually passed into secular hands, leading to the priory's inevitable decline. In 1606 the land and property passed to the Erskine family, and later to the Marquess of Montrose; the 6th Duke of Montrose passed it into the care of the State in 1926.

Although most of the buildings are now ruins, much of the original 13th century structure remains and it is an important historic site. The priory can be visited by boat from March to September.

Opening Times

1 April - 30 September
Daily: First outward sailing at 10am to last sailing at 4.30 pm

October
1 October - 31 October
Daily: First outward sailing at 10am to last sailing at 3.30 pm

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Ticket Prices

Adult £5.00
Child £3.00
Concession £4.00

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Disabled Facilities

Unless capable of getting themselves into and out of the boat, visitors in wheelchairs are not able to visit this property. Once they have reached the Island, those using wheelchairs or with limited mobility can enter the priory grounds and see about half of the church, cloister and refectory areas.

The presbytery, sacristy and warming house are not suitable for visitors with limited mobility.

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More Information

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