St Blane's Church

Heritage Site in Buteshire

Scotland

St Blane's Church

Overlooking Garroch Head A view of Garroch Head, the most southerly point of the Isle of Bute.

This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21. — Overlooking Garroch Head Credit: James T M Towill

St Blane's Church, located in the picturesque Isle of Bute, in the county of Buteshire, Scotland, is a historic heritage site that dates back to the 12th century. Situated on a beautiful hilltop overlooking the Kyles of Bute, the church is surrounded by tranquil and idyllic scenery.

The church is known for its unique architectural style, blending Romanesque and Gothic elements. The building itself is made of local red sandstone, creating a striking visual impact against the lush greenery of the landscape. The original structure includes a nave, chancel, and a tower, with later additions and alterations made over the centuries.

Inside, visitors can explore the church's interior, adorned with intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes and saints. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, providing a sense of tranquility and spiritual reflection.

The churchyard surrounding St Blane's Church is the final resting place of many prominent figures from the local community and offers a peaceful place for contemplation. The churchyard is also home to several ancient burial stones and crosses, which add to the historical significance of the site.

St Blane's Church, with its rich history and stunning location, attracts visitors from all over the world who come to appreciate its architectural beauty and experience a connection to the past. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of religious and cultural heritage in Buteshire and serves as a cherished landmark for both locals and tourists alike.

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St Blane's Church Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.737/-5.035 or Grid Reference NS0953. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Overlooking Garroch Head

A view of Garroch Head, the most southerly point of the Isle of Bute. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21.

James T M Towill

Plain by The Plan

Well, perhaps more just a little bit of level ground rather than a 'plain'! On the West Island Way heading back inland after a brief detour to Garroch Head. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21.

James T M Towill

View to St Blane's Hill from St Blane's Churchyard

A view from a shaded corner of St Blane's Churchyard in an October mid-afternoon. The distinctive outline of Holy Island off the Isle of Arran can be seen to the right of shot. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21.

James T M Towill

St Blane's Church

A view across the churchyard to the medieval Church of St Blane in the south of the Isle of Bute. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21.

James T M Towill

West Island Way above St Blane's Church

This section of the West Island Way utilises an old farm track. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21.

James T M Towill

View to Branzet Moss

A view to Branzet Moss, and beyond Glen Callum, from the West Island Way. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21.

James T M Towill

St Blane's monastic site and church

What a fascinating site this is. Remains of a very early 6th century monastic site with a medieval church within its boundary. Here one can see very ancient walls with the 12thC church on the higher ground.

Gordon Hatton

Ancient well at monastic site

Fresh water would have been a priority for the monks at the 6thC monastery here.

Gordon Hatton

St Blane's church

The ruins of the 12thC church set within the walls of the 6thC monastic site. The original monastery was destroyed by Viking raiders in the 8thC, but by 1200 that had accepted Christianity and had this church constructed. One might describe the chancel arch as 'Norman' in style, although the Normans never reached this far north.

Gordon Hatton

Fields below St Blane's church

A scattering of sheep across the field that borders the road. Ahead is the rocky headland of Dunagoil, site of a prehistoric vitrified fort.

Gordon Hatton

St Blane's monastic site towards St Blane's Hill

Looking south from within the old monastic site towards the 123m high St Blane's Hill, most of which is composed of volcanic rocks from the carboniferous period.

Gordon Hatton

Contented cattle - and a few sheep

Cattle and sheep on pasture land at Garrochty Farm.

Gordon Hatton

Burial chamber at Dunagoil

This was the one item marked on the OS map that was relatively easy to find, although it is hardly a large round or long barrow. I'd describe this as a cist as it is rather small, and if it once contained a body, then it would have been in a curled position.

Gordon Hatton

Dunagoil Bay

A view of the bay and part of the Dunagoil headland. The northern hills of Arran are visible in the distance.

Gordon Hatton

Dunagoil Bay and beach

On a whirlwind tour of Bute, this struck me as the nicest sandy beach on the island. A quiet bay with a view across to Arran.

Gordon Hatton

Bluebells above the bay

Bluebells above Dunagoil Bay with a view along the south west coast of the island.

Gordon Hatton

Track to Dunagoil

Headland composed of volcanic rocks overlooking a fine sandy bay [off photo to the right]. There's traces of a vitrified fort on the highest part of the hill, a burial cist below, a couple of interesting caves, plus some items that this contributor couldn't find, such as cup marked stones and St Blane's Stone.

Gordon Hatton