Dozens of Medieval Sites Across Scotland Reopen for Spring Season
Over 30 historic sites have reopened to the public as Historic Scotland launches its spring and summer season. Among them are many remarkable medieval landmarks, now ready to welcome visitors eager to explore Scotland’s rich heritage.
“This Is the Community’s Wealth”: New Insight into the Galloway Hoard
An inscription on one of the arm-rings from the Galloway Hoard may finally have been deciphered, offering fresh insights into the origins of this extraordinary Viking-Age treasure trove.
Battle, Betrayal, and Balliol: The Struggle for Scotland and the Battle of Annan
In the chaos of 14th-century Scotland, a band of exiled nobles known as the Disinherited rose against the odds, claiming a shocking victory at Dupplin Moor and crowning their leader, Edward Balliol, as king. But triumph soon turned to tragedy, as betrayal and a deadly December ambush unraveled their hold on the Scottish throne.
The Battle of Neville’s Cross (1346), according to the Lanercost Chronicle
The year 1346 is remembered in England mostly for the Battle of Crécy, where King Edward III defeated the French forces in one…
Step Into Scotland’s Past: Living History Week Brings Castles and Characters to Life
Scotland’s most iconic historical sites will be transformed from Saturday, 12 October to Sunday, 20 October for the Great Big Living History Week, featuring re-enactments and immersive performances that bring centuries of history to life.
Medieval Scottish Coin sells for £32,000
A unique medieval coin from the reign of David I of Scotland (1124-1153) has sold for £32,000 – double its pre-sale estimate.
Early Medieval Workshop Discovered in Scotland
An early medieval workshop built over the ruins of an earlier Pictish-style building reveals a snapshot of life in the early Scots kingdom of Dál Riata.
‘Remarkable’ Early Medieval Pictish Ring Unearthed in Scotland
A ‘remarkable’ Pictish ring, featuring an intricate setting and believed from the Early Middle Ages, has been discovered in northern Scotland.
Unique Medieval Coin Goes Up For Auction
A unique medieval coin from the reign of David I of Scotland (1124-1153) will be going up for auction next week. It is expected to fetch between £15,000-20,000.
From Iran to Scotland: Viking-Age Treasure’s Journey Unveiled
New research and conservation efforts have unveiled the Iranian origin of a lidded vessel that held many of the unique treasures in the Galloway Hoard. This revelation comes just in time for the vessel’s public debut, marking the 10th anniversary of the hoard’s discovery.
How Robert the Bruce Secured the Scottish Throne
Discover how Robert the Bruce transformed his victory at Bannockburn into lasting dominance over Scotland. Learn how strategic alliances, land redistribution, and continued warfare helped him secure the Scottish throne and solidify his dynasty’s future.
Uncovering Merlin’s Scottish Legacy: New Archaeological Findings at Drumelzier
Excavations at Tinnis Fort, which overlooks Merlin’s Grave, revealed that this prominent hillfort was occupied around the late sixth and early seventh centuries AD.
Robert the Bruce’s Face Unveiled in 3D at Dunfermline Abbey
To mark the 750th anniversary of Robert the Bruce’s birth, a new 3D model – produced from a cast of his skull – is now on display to the public at Dunfermline Abbey in Scotland.
The Weardale Campaign (1327)
In 1327, Scottish forces invaded England, posing the first test for the newly crowned Edward III. In this episode of Bow & Blade, Michael and Kelly discuss how the English response turned out so badly.
Stone of Destiny fragment analyzed
Historic Environment Scotland has carried out a series of cutting-edge, non-destructive scientific analyses of the sandstone fragment, comparing it to previous examinations of the Stone of Destiny.
Elcho Castle in Scotland reopens
A 16th-century tower house in northeastern Scotland has reopened to visitors after Historic Environment Scotland carried out necessary repairs to its masonry.
The Battle of Dupplin Moor
James Turner analyses this 14th-century battle in Scotland.
The Battle of Halidon Hill (1333)
Scotland and England are at war again, with the important border town of Berwick-upon-Tweed under siege. In this episode of Bow & Blade, Michael and Kelly discuss how the English were able to inflict a quick and devastating defeat on the Scots.
Face of Mary, Queen of Scots, revealed
To mark the anniversary of Mary Queen of Scots’ death, Historic Environment Scotland has released a digital 3D model of Mary’s face based on her death mask.
Medieval stone depicting ‘Govan Warrior’ discovered in Scotland
Archaeologists working in the Scottish city of Glasgow have discovered an early medieval carved stone of a warrior figure. Dubbed the ‘Govan Warrior’, it is a unique object, even compared to other medieval stone artifacts found at the Govan Old Churchyard.
DNA study reveals the origins of the medieval Picts
The Picts, a people who inhabited Scotland during the Middle Ages, have always had a sense of mystery to them. A new study using DNA has revealed new details about their origins.
Alexander III, King of Scotland: A Child on the Throne and Schemers all Around
Alexander III’s reign both began and ended in crisis.
Changing his tune: Robert Bruce, Ireland, and the Papacy
Robert Bruce had been on a mission for over a decade by 1318, intent on forcing a peace treaty out of England acknowledging Scottish independence and his own rights as king.
The Death of a Templar Master
The Templars were forbidden to engage in fighting against other Christians. Shockingly, however, the Templar Master Brian le Jay died fighting for Edward I against the Scots in 1298. How was this possible and what did it mean?
