Inchmahome Priory

On the orders of the Earl of Menteith, Inchmahome Priory was initially founded as an Augustinian monastery in about 1238. Over the years, Inchmahome Priory's remote position made it the perfect haven; even royalty, like King Robert Bruce, viewed it as a retreat. The time that a young Mary Queen of Scots sought refuge at the priory, however, is well remembered. Inchmahome Priory declined after the Protestant Reformation of 1560 and ceased to function as a working monastery.

At Inchmahome Priory, most of the cloister buildings are now in ruins, but the chapter house, which was turned into a mausoleum in the 17th century, has survived. The extensive collection of exquisitely carved stones, which includes an effigy of Walter Stewart and Countess Mary in a tender embrace, is on display for visitors to see.

The name of Mary Queen of Scots is affixed to the small boxwood bower in the middle of the island. Those with keen eyes should keep an eye out for it. The remains, which are believed to have been built in the 1500s, are surrounded by gnarly old chestnut trees.

Location: Boatshed, Port of Menteith, By Kippen, Stirling FK8 3RA, United Kingdom