A ground breaking historic dig is underway at Lindores Abbey Distillery in Fife - the spiritual home of Scotch whisky.

The Newburgh business welcomed the Monastic Archaeology Field School to its premises this month. The team of students, members of staff and professors from St Andrews University and Brandeis University, and archaeologists will be undertaking extensive historic, cultural, and bioarchaeological research for the next four weeks. They recently broke ground in the abbey ruins to begin their dig.

The team is made up of students from across the world who will enjoy an intensive experience of hands-on field archaeology at the 12th century abbey. Lindores has hosted many prestigious visitors throughout the ages, including William Wallace, King Edward I of England, John Balliol, King David II and King James III.

The field school is holding an open day at Lindores Abbey on June 21 – and anyone keen to learn more about their work and what they have uncovered is free to attend. Visit https://mafs-scot.org/ to find out more.

Lindores Abbey Distillery has welcomed the Monastic Archaeology Field School to its premises (Pic: Submitted)

placeholder image — Lindores Abbey Distillery has welcomed the Monastic Archaeology Field School to its premises (Pic: Submitted)

Fascinating archaeological discoveries have already been made at Lindores Abbey, when a structure believed to be a mediaeval still was uncovered during a 2018 dig. This helped to enrich the history of Lindores as the spiritual home of Scotch whisky – the first known written reference to Scotch whisky, or aqua vitae, was in 1494 by Friar John Cor of Lindores Abbey.

Drew McKenzie Smith, managing director of Lindores Abbey Distillery and custodian of Lindores Abbey, said: “The abbey is a place of such deep historical significance, and we can’t wait to see what their research uncovers. With such a list of notable visitors and historic events, I am sure that their findings will be remarkable. I have long been keen to dig deeper in to the ruins and their history.”

Professor Alison Beach, field school director, commented: “We are so delighted to be partnering with Lindores Abbey Distillery for this important excavation project. This is a unique opportunity for university and business to work together to provide training in historical study and archaeological excavation. We also hope to foster community involvement in local heritage, enhancing Fife tourism and encouraging wider engagement with local business.”