6 September 2025 (10:00 - 16:00) Paisley Abbey was founded around 1163 by Walter FitzAlan, a knight of Breton origin, who had been brought to Scotland by King David 1 and made the first High Steward of Scotland. This was a senior position at court and was hereditary. A charter was signed at Fotheringhay, Northamptonshire for the founding of a Cluniac monastery on land he owned in Renfrewshire. Under royal patronage, the Abbey became wealthy and influential and evidence exists of extensive trade between Paisley Abbey and commercial centres throughout Europe. The Abbey was also a centre of learning and it is believed that William Wallace, who played a prominent part in the Wars of Independence in the 13th century, was educated by the monks of Paisley Abbey. Today the Abbey is a working Church of Scotland, visitor attraction and venue for civic and cultural events in the town. Abbey tower will be open for exploration. Additionally, there will be various stalls set up in the Abbey Cloisters, Certain areas of the building are not accessible for those with mobility limitations. The tower tours are not suitable for those with mobility or health issues

Address
Abbey Close, Paisley, PA1 1JG