for all information on visiting Incholm Island please visit Historic Scotlands webb page here
Inchcolm Abbey, on the island of Inchcolm, was founded as a priory in 1124 by David I and, according to legend, the foundation occurred after his predecessor Alexander I was sheltered by a hermit on the island. The hermit’s cell, rebuilt in the 14th/15th century can still be seen today in the garden of the abbey. Other features that predate the abbey are the 10th century Scandinavian hogback stone and fragments of a cross excavated in 1850, which are currently in the Historic Scotland visitor centre.
The priory became an abbey in 1235 and remained in religious use until 1560 when the Protestant Reformation brought an end to monastic life on the island. The island of Inchcolm has also served as an important defensive location throughout history, most notably in World Wars I and II when its use was to protect the Forth Rail Bridge and prevent attacks on the naval dockyard at Rosyth. The islands remains testify to this history of conflict as well as the history of the medieval church in Scotland.
Important:- Guidelines below for visiting the island and for finding the caches
1. There are several ferry companies which stop off at the island (see the Historic Scotland web page for details) but be aware there is a cost involved both for the ferry and landing on the island. The ferry company may include this in the fare so check with them for details.
2. the island is closed from November - March and during this time the caches will be "temporarily disabled" until the island opens to visitors from April - Oct.
3. Please keep an eye on wee ones as there are hazards all around the island (e.g water, rocks) and steep drops down into the water.
4. Nesting Gulls :- From May to August, access to parts of the island may be reduced due to the aggressive behaviour of nesting gulls to protect their young.
5. The caches on Inchcolm are initially on the island on a trial period. Please carefully replace the caches as found.
6. The caches are not wheelchair accessible, unfortunately the ferry services to and from the island do not have suitable access for wheelchair users.
7. IMPORTANT Please note :- When large cruise ships berth close to South Queensferry one of the ferry companies depart from North queensferry for inchcolm island. the good news is that you have a rare opportunity to photograph close up a large cruise ship anchored in the forth.
Even with the points above it won’t stop you from having a wonderful time exploring the island and hunting for the caches. A great day out for the family.