Oronsay Priory

Oronsay Priory consists of stone ruins on a tidal island in the Inner Hebrides, with a church, cloister, chapter house, and dining hall arranged around a central courtyard. These remains show how the monastery was laid out, with each building serving a specific part of daily monastic life.

John of Islay, a leader of the Hebrides, founded this Augustinian monastery in 1353 as a center for religious life and learning. The Scottish Reformation in 1560 ended its use, leaving the buildings to stand empty for centuries afterward.

The Prior's House holds about thirty medieval grave stones carved with detailed scenes, showing MacDuffie clan leaders and boats on the water. These carvings tell visitors about the seafaring life that mattered so much to the island's people.

Access to the island is only possible at low tide when you can cross the shallow water connecting it to Colonsay. Parking is available at Garvard at the southern end of the B8085 road, from where you make your way to The Strand crossing.

Near the church entrance stands a high cross carved in the late medieval period that shows scenes of a crucifixion. This cross is one of those easy-to-miss details unless you pause to look carefully at what it depicts.

Location: Argyll and Bute

Inception: 14 century

GPS coordinates: 56.01992,-6.25469

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:01