Heritage

The farmland and woodland hide a lot of Arnprior’s history. Arnprior Castle was held by the Menzies family during the reign of James IV (1488-1513) and later by John Buchanan. It was located in the field south of the Mill and close to the edge of Arnprior Glen. The remains were still visible in 1796 but have long since disappeared. Hidden away in woodland is Keir Knowe of Arnmore, the remains of an earthwork that dates back to Norman times. Mounds of this type are also known as mottes and supported castles of wood and later of stone. They were characteristic of the feudal system that existed in the reign of King David I (1124-63). Something that is still visible is the prominent brick tower structure on the east boundary of Arnprior which is a late 18th century dovecot.

Flanders Moss is a remnant of the huge Forth Valley boglands that once stretched from Aberfoyle to beyond Stirling. This ancient natural gem now forms the largest intact raised bog left in Britain, home to many scarce plants, birds and insects. Sphagnum mosses grow on Flanders creating a colourful patchwork of emerald, amber, tawny and claret. A boardwalk provides access for all to this fragile place and there is a viewing platform. One way to appreciate the full extent of Flanders is to look south from the A873 near Thornhill but you can also get a good view from the quiet road near Cloney on the way to Kippen. There are other smaller remnants of raised bog and one of these, Killorn Moss, is in Arnprior; the others are Shirgarton and Collymoon. Together these areas make up a Special Area of Conservation.