Pittodrie Estate Excavations
The excavation of the ‘Bede House’ and associated documentary research led to a complete re-evaluation of its presumed historical character. It was discovered to have been established as a ‘hospital’ during the second half of the 17th century. The structure was made of substantial granite walls, suggesting the existence of an upper floor. An internal stone setting facing the front door indicated the former existence of a timber staircase.
The excavation and documentary research were published by the Bailies of Bennachie in volume 4 of the Bennachie Landscapes Series and can be downloaded below.
The project was carried out by members of the Bennachie Landscapes Fieldwork Group, with funding provided by the Bailies of Bennachie. Permission to access the land and carry out the excavations was kindly given by the Macdonald Hotels, owners of the Pittodrie Estate.
Ralston, I. & Shepherd, C. (2019) “The Pittodrie Estate ‘Bede House’ Excavations”, BLOP12, in Shepherd, C. (ed) Bennachie and the Garioch: Society and Landscape in the History of North-east Scotland, 4 (Chapel of Garioch, Bailies of Bennachie) 105-152.
Miller, C.H. (2019) “Pittodrie Bede House Archival Research”, BLOP11, in Shepherd, C. (ed) Bennachie and the Garioch: Society and Landscape in the History of North-east Scotland, 4 (Chapel of Garioch, Bailies of Bennachie) 87-103.