Restenneth Priory

Restenneth Priory was a monastic institution of Augustinian canons, established in 1153 under the patronage of King Malcolm IV of Scotland. It was founded by Jedburgh Abbey, and while historical records for its earliest period are limited, archaeological evidence strongly suggests a monastic presence at the site from very early times. There is even speculation that Restenneth might have been the location of a Pictish church dedicated to St Peter, built in 710 for King Nechtán mac Der Ilei.

History and Development

Throughout its history, Restenneth Priory remained a relatively small and dependent house, closely tied to its mother-house in Jedburgh. By 1501, its community consisted of only two canons, and its annual income was modest. Attempts were made in the early 16th century to incorporate Restenneth into the Royal Chapel or the archbishopric of St Andrews, but these did not materialize. The priory's monastic life effectively ended in 1606 when it was converted into a secular lordship for Thomas Erskine, Viscount Fentoun.

Following the Reformation, the site saw various owners, including George Dempster of Dunnichen, who designated part of the choir as a family burial site. Historical accounts also suggest that John Bruce, the youngest son of Robert I and twin brother of David II, was buried at the priory around 1327.

Site and Legacy

Archaeological excavations were conducted at Restenneth in 1883 by William Galloway and Dr. John Stuart. Today, the priory exists predominantly in ruins, with only the tower remaining intact. The site is recognized as a scheduled monument. Located just outside the town of Forfar, Restenneth Priory shares an access road with the Angus Archives. Visitors can reach the priory via a short path, where the surrounding fields and the medieval architecture are the primary visual elements, with the modern town and roads obscured.