Kinloss Abbey Trust to offer four guided tours of historic site this summer
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HISTORIANS are offering free guided tours of a local landmark this summer.
Kinloss Abbey Trust volunteers including Dr Timothy Finnegan will be on-hand with information about the medieval site and its importance to the development of Moray.
Dr Finnegan said: “Come and enjoy the peace and quiet of Kinloss Abbey. Wander about with a knowledgeable guide. Learn a little of the site’s history and importance. And visit www.kinlossabbey.org too!”
Kinloss Abbey was founded in 1150 by King David I and colonised by monks from Melrose Abbey. It received a Papal Bull from Pope Alexander III in 1174 and came under the protection of the Bishop of Moray in 1187.The abbey went on to become one of the largest and wealthiest religious houses in Scotland, receiving the salmon fishing rights to the River Findhorn from Robert the Bruce in 1312. It received royal visitors including Edward I in 1303, Edward III in 1336 and Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1562.
The most renowned of the monastery’s 24 abbots was Robert Reid, who introduced organised education, erected a new library and other buildings. The King’s Commissioner and senior lawyer in Scotland gifted the abbey’s library which led to the creation of Edinburgh University.
Kinloss Abbey Trust is restoring the remains of the Abbot’s House.
At least four trustees who are qualified in architecture, archaeology and history will lead the tours this summer.
Dr Finnegan said: “We also benefit from the knowledge of the other trustees who often assist on tours and bring specific knowledge such as horticulture. All leaders are aware of the safety precautions needed, especially with regard to the Abbot’s House. We all want to stabilise the remains and open it to the public.”
The four free tours will be from 60-75 minutes long, starting at 2pm on Sunday June 25, Sunday July 30, Sunday August 27 and Sunday September 23. The final date is part of the Doors Open Day and Highland Archaeology Festival.
There will also be a longer guided tour - ‘Solstice in the Abbey’ - on Wednesday, June 21 from 8-10pm for £10 as part of the Moray Walking and Outdoor Festival.
Dr Finnegan finished: “We will cover the history of the foundation, growth and decline of the Abbey. The importance of Bishop Reid, the penultimate Abbot, will be brought out. The tour of the Abbot’s House will have a safety brief and be closely controlled.
“Questions are welcomed about any aspect of the site.”
See https://kinlossabbey.org/kinloss-abbey-trust/ for more information.
