Soutra Aisle

Soutra Aisle is a stone ruin in the Scottish Borders representing what remains of a large medieval hospital complex. The structure sits on a high hillside and shows the basic form of the original building that once stood here.

King Malcolm IV founded the hospital in 1160 as one of Scotland's three major medical centers of its time. The facility continued operating until the 15th century before eventually falling into ruin.

The site shows how a medieval community provided care to the sick and injured through a dedicated religious institution. Visitors can sense the practical purpose this place served beyond its spiritual role.

The site can be reached by parking along the B6368 road, roughly one mile from where it meets the A68. The elevated location means weather can change quickly, so come prepared for wind and rain.

Excavations uncovered remnants of medicinal preparations containing cloves and other spices from East Africa in the hospital cellar. This discovery reveals how connected the medieval world was, with rare ingredients traveling vast distances to reach remote Scottish locations.

Location: Scottish Borders

Location: Fala and Soutra

GPS coordinates: 55.81607,-2.87425

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:30