March 28, 2024

SCOTLAND: Paisley Abbey

Paisley Abbey
A visit to Paisley Abbey, Paisley Scotland

While staying in Glasgow, I ventured across the Clyde River to explore Paisley Abbey. Probably THE BEST guided tour I’ve ever taken!


Since as early as the 7th century this has been a sacred site when St Mirin from Ireland established a monastic order. After his death, it was a popular site of pilgrimage and veneration for hundreds of years.It wasn’t until the 12th century that a ‘modern’ priory was established by (the eventual) House of Stewart.
A fascinating history still remains, including Princess Marjory’s remains (Robert The Bruce’s daughter) as well as a few mysteries. The building and grounds have seen MANY changes over the centuries, and fascinating uses as well (such as part of the grounds was leased as a pub and a brothel for example)
If you an extra day to wander a burgh in Scotland, I highly recommend Paisley and the Abbey especially! There is so much to the history of Paisley, much of which is camouflaged by modern ‘progress’, but do some reading – truly worth the brain space!
I recommend you check their calendar before visiting, as they only are open a few days a week for touring and because certain special days of the year they offer an opportunity to tour the medieval tunnels (sewers) and the steeple tower!