St Vigeans Sculptured Stones Museum
Discover 38 ancient Pictish stones at this small, historic museum near Arbroath, a former religious center.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid potential closures
St Vigeans Sculptured Stones Museum
Best Time
Avoid potential closures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover 38 ancient Pictish stones at this small, historic museum near Arbroath, a former religious center.
"Loved the museum, church and churchyard. Also, the setting was beautiful."
🎯 Confirm Opening Times
It's often closed unexpectedly. Call ahead or check online before visiting to avoid disappointment!
📸 Great Lighting for Photos
The museum's lighting is excellent for capturing detailed shots of the sculptured stones.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Pictish Stones Collection
St. Vigeans Museum
Discover 38 intricately carved Pictish stones, showcasing the unique art and history of these ancient warriors.
Class II Pictish Cross
St. Vigeans Churchyard
A stunning example of Pictish Christian art, this cross stands as a testament to the site's historical religious importance.
Historic St. Vigeans Church
St. Vigeans Village
Explore the beautiful, ancient church situated on a prominent mound, offering a glimpse into centuries of local history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours Before You Go
Embrace the Intimate Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Confirm Opening Times
It's often closed unexpectedly. Call ahead or check online before visiting to avoid disappointment!
📸 Great Lighting for Photos
The museum's lighting is excellent for capturing detailed shots of the sculptured stones.
🚶♀️ Explore the Village
The museum is a short walk from the beautiful church and churchyard, offering a peaceful exploration.
💰 Small Entry Fee
Expect a modest admission fee, around £9, for this unique historical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Confirm Opening Times
It's often closed unexpectedly. Call ahead or check online before visiting to avoid disappointment!
📸 Great Lighting for Photos
The museum's lighting is excellent for capturing detailed shots of the sculptured stones.
🚶♀️ Explore the Village
The museum is a short walk from the beautiful church and churchyard, offering a peaceful exploration.
💰 Small Entry Fee
Expect a modest admission fee, around £9, for this unique historical experience.
🌿 Spot the Local Heron
Keep an eye out for the local heron by the burn (stream) for a touch of local wildlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the St. Vigeans Sculptured Stones Museum to be a charming and historically significant site, particularly appreciating the collection of Pictish stones and the beautiful setting near the church. However, some note its small size and the potential for unpredictable opening hours, advising to confirm availability before visiting.
"Loved the museum, church and churchyard. Also, the setting was beautiful with a museum in an Old Stone cottage on a curved street. Lighting was great in the museum for photography."
Trina Stephenson
"Gorgeous Class II Pictish cross in the churchyard and beautiful church sitting on top of the mound, with museum a 2 minute walk away which houses some 38 Class I and II Pictish stones. If you’re lucky you may spot the local heron in the burn!"
Sarah Takahashi
"Smaller than I imagined, about the size of a double garage. ,£9 ish to enter."
Steve Hazlehurst
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the small village of St. Vigeans, near Arbroath in Angus, Scotland. It's best accessed by car. Parking is available nearby.
While Arbroath has public transport links, reaching St. Vigeans village directly might require a taxi or a significant walk from the nearest bus stop. Planning your journey in advance is recommended.
The museum is situated in the village, close to the historic church. Follow local signage or ask a resident for directions to the museum and church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can be inconsistent. It's highly recommended to confirm directly with the museum or check their social media, as it's sometimes closed even on advertised days.
Admission is around £9 per person. It's a small fee for a significant historical insight.
Information on advance ticket purchase is limited. It's generally advisable to pay on arrival, but confirming opening times is the priority.
Yes, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history that can be engaging for children, especially when combined with exploring the churchyard.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the museum. The lighting is noted as being great for capturing detailed images of the stones.
Afternoons often provide good natural light for photographing the stones both inside the museum and in the churchyard.
The Class II Pictish cross in the churchyard is a standout, as are the 38 Class I and II stones housed within the museum, each with unique carvings. 
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
It's a small, intimate museum, described as being about the size of a double garage, housing an impressive collection of 38 Pictish stones.
St. Vigeans was an important Pictish religious center, evidenced by the numerous and high-quality Pictish Christian carvings found there.
The museum is located near the beautiful St. Vigeans Church and its churchyard, which also features a significant Pictish cross.
Yes, the Pictish Trail connects various sites with Pictish heritage, and Arbroath Abbey also has contemporary carved replicas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with exploring the historic St. Vigeans Church and its churchyard. The Pictish cross in the churchyard provides a visual focal point, and the open space allows kids to move around. The chance to spot local wildlife, like the heron by the burn, adds an extra element of fun to the outing. It's a great way to introduce children to Scotland's rich Pictish heritage in a relaxed setting.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
The site's significance as a former Pictish religious center adds another layer of historical depth. Exploring the museum, the adjacent church, and the churchyard with its prominent Pictish cross allows for a comprehensive understanding of the area's ancient past. This is a prime location for anyone interested in early medieval Scotland and the enigmatic Pictish people.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Picts: Scotland's Enigmatic People
St. Vigeans itself was a significant Pictish religious center. The sheer number and quality of the Pictish Christian carvings discovered here underscore its importance. The museum houses approximately 38 of these stones, many of which are classified as Class I and Class II, showcasing the evolution of Pictish art and the adoption of Christianity.
Visiting St. Vigeans provides a tangible connection to this ancient civilization. The stones are not just historical artifacts; they are artistic masterpieces that tell stories of a fierce and artistic people who left an indelible mark on Scotland's landscape and history.
+1Exploring St. Vigeans: Beyond the Museum
Within the churchyard, visitors can find a particularly striking Class II Pictish cross. This beautifully carved stone is a significant piece of Pictish art and a testament to the enduring legacy of the people who once inhabited this area. The peaceful setting of the church and churchyard, combined with the presence of these ancient stones, creates a serene and historically rich atmosphere.
For those who enjoy nature, the local burn (stream) that runs through the area is also a point of interest. Keep an eye out, as you might even spot a local heron, adding a touch of wildlife to your historical exploration. The combination of ancient history, beautiful architecture, and natural surroundings makes St. Vigeans a worthwhile destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit