Inchmahome Priory

Inchmahome Priory is situated on Inchahome ("Inch" meaning an island), the largest of three 

islands in the centre of Lake of Menteith, close to Aberfoyle, Scotland. The priory has a long history of receiving many notable guests. In 1547 the priory served as a refuge for Mary Queen of Scots, aged four, hidden here for a few weeks following the disastrous defeat of the Scots army at the Battle of Pinkie Cleugh during the Rough Wooing.

Approaching from the north shore of Lake Mentieth, it is only seconds before you land on the island that you catch a glimpse of the priory, its ruined walls nestled behind the leaves of a screen of unkempt trees. The lake was completely still only dotted with the occasional geriatric fishing party in rowing boats. Although most of the buildings are now ruins, much of the original 13th century structure remains. I was amazed at how pristine the ruins have remained which is due to the care of the Historic Scotland, who maintain and preserve it as an important historic site.