Beauly Priory, Inverness

Priory near Inverness

Scotlan Beauly Priory
Scotlan Beauly Priory
GNU 1.2 / Wojsyl

Beauly Priory is one of the loveliest monastic ruins in the Scottish Highlands, founded around 1230 for monks of the Valliscaulian order who travelled from Val-des-Choux near Dijon. True to its name-meaning “beautiful place”-the priory sits in a serene setting on the edge of the River Beauly, surrounded by old trees and atmospheric stonework. Though only the abbey church remains standing, the site's carved tombs, medieval arches, and lingering sense of quiet devotion make it one of the best places to visit in Beauly.

Wandering among the ruins today, you can still sense the solitude that drew the monks here centuries ago. Protected as a scheduled monument, the priory remains an evocative reminder of Scotland’s medieval religious life and its long ties to France.

History and Significance of Beauly Priory

Beauly Priory was founded around 1230 at Insula de Achenbady, now modern Beauly. Its origins are not fully documented, but the likely founders were either King Alexander II, John Byset-a Norman lord newly settled in the area-or possibly both acting jointly. The Valliscaulian monks were a small, austere order that followed strict vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Their presence was significant enough that the French name “beau lieu”-beautiful place-became the permanent name of the settlement and its river.

Local legend offers a more romantic explanation: Mary, Queen of Scots, travelling through the Highlands as a young woman, is said to have looked out over the valley and exclaimed “Beau Lieu!” Whether true or not, the story remains popular in the village.

The priory is not well recorded until the 14th century, and only a handful of its medieval priors are known by name. In 1510, after the Valliscaulian order was suppressed by the Pope, Beauly Priory became Cistercian. Over the following century, the priory was secularised and ruled by commendatory abbots rather than resident monks. Its lands were finally transferred to the bishop of Ross in 1634, marking the end of its religious function.

Today, the surviving ruins-especially the church with its funerary monuments-offer a compelling glimpse into its medieval past.

Things to See and Do in Beauly Priory

The highlight of Beauly Priory is its atmospheric church, whose red sandstone walls still rise impressively against the surrounding greenery. Inside, you'll find several notable funerary monuments, including carved effigies and medieval knightly tombs that speak to the priory's historical importance within the region.

Walking around the grounds, visitors can admire the remnants of monastic architecture: arched windows, stone benches, ivy-covered walls, and fragments of cloister spaces. Information panels help reconstruct how the full community once lived, worshipped, and worked within these walls.

The surrounding village of Beauly adds to the experience. Quaint shops, cafés, and tree-lined streets offer a pleasant place to wander after exploring the priory, while the nearby River Beauly brings even more tranquillity to the setting.

How to Get to Beauly Priory

The nearest airport is Inverness Airport, located east of Inverness and offering flights from major UK cities as well as selected European destinations. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Inverness on Booking.com.

Travellers arriving by train can take the Highland Main Line to Beauly Railway Station, located just a short walk from the priory and connecting to Inverness and Dingwall. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car is straightforward, with Beauly located about 12 miles west of Inverness on the A862. Parking is available in the village close to the priory entrance, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

Practical Tips on Visiting Beauly Priory

  • Suggested tips: Visit early in the morning for peaceful photography and quiet reflection among the ruins.
  • Best time to visit: Spring through autumn for the lushest surroundings.
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Open year-round; daylight access recommended.
  • Official website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot
  • How long to spend: Around 30-45 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Mostly level ground, though some uneven surfaces inside the ruins.
  • Facilities: Limited onsite; public facilities available in Beauly village.
  • Photography tip: Frame the red sandstone walls beneath the canopy of ancient trees for atmospheric shots.
  • Guided tours: Occasional local tours available; self-guided visits are easy.
  • Nearby food options: Beauly village cafés and bakeries are just steps away.

Where to Stay close to Beauly Priory

Beauly offers several charming accommodation choices, while Inverness provides more options within easy reach. The characterful The Priory Hotel is just metres from the ruins. For countryside tranquillity, Lovat Arms Hotel offers a Highland-style stay. Travellers wanting urban comforts can base themselves at Kingsmills Hotel for easy access to Beauly and the wider Highlands.

Is Beauly Priory Worth Visiting?

Absolutely-Beauly Priory is a peaceful, evocative ruin rich in history and atmosphere. Its blend of medieval architecture, funerary monuments, and tranquil surroundings makes it one of the top sights in Beauly. Whether you're exploring the Highlands, tracing Scotland's monastic history, or seeking a quiet retreat, the priory offers a memorable and meaningful visit.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (1,394)

Beauly Priory in Beauly IV4 7DY is a peaceful, well cared-for ruin of a 13th-century church set beside a graveyard and riverside walk; visitors note its distinctive red stone, accessible grounds (with a small locked section of very old graves), and easy wandering around the site, making it a pleasant short stop near the village with nearby shops and cosy cafés.

April Williams
5 months ago
"The Beauly Priory is right on the edge of the town of Beauly. It is a beautiful ruin that can be visited at any time. The stone is red instead of theusual grey. There is a small section that is locked that has some very old graves from the 1400's. The grounds around the Priory are also nice to explore...."
Victor van der Waal
4 months ago
"A charming little spot for a break. The 13th-century abbey is an impressive sight, with gravestones dating back over 400 years. Browse the quaintshops, enjoy a cosy café, and take a leisurely stroll along the river. Well worth pausing for at least a short visit...."
Duncan Agnew
5 months ago
"Set in the lovely village of Beauly, with the great local shops and cafè's, this is a great link to the past. Free to visit and not busy. Wellmaintained and cared for. A very relaxed visit. Something to visit if you're hill-walked out, out weathered in. Wheelchair accessible, just. A local river walk just next to it, it is a nice way to spend 20 - 30 minutes...."

FAQs for Visiting Beauly Priory

Around 1230, likely by King Alexander II, John Byset, or both.
The Valliscaulian order until 1510, after which it became Cistercian.
The church survives largely intact, with other structures in ruin.
Yes, the priory is free and open to the public.
Most visitors stay 30-45 minutes.

Nearby Attractions to Beauly Priory

  • Urquhart Castle: A dramatic ruin overlooking Loch Ness.
  • Inverness Cathedral: A beautiful Victorian-era riverside cathedral.
  • Culloden Battlefield: The site of the famous 1746 Jacobite battle.
  • Glen Ord Distillery: A Highland whisky distillery offering guided tours.
  • Reelig Glen: A scenic woodland walk known for some of Britain’s tallest trees.

 

The Beauly Priory appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Inverness!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

1 Apr to 30 Sept:

Daily, 9.30am to 5.30pm

Last entry 5pm


1 Oct to 31 Mar:

Daily, 10am to 4pm

Last entry 3.30pm

Inverness: 14 km

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