Fowlis Wester: Church and Cross Art

The key themes in Fowlis Wester range from ecclesiastical heritage and early medieval cross art to a designated section of the Core Path. Two dates put the historical themes in context: the “Fowlis Wester 2” cross-slab dates from the 8th century; Fowlis Wester Parish Church is a 13th-century church. If you are looking for a hotel, you can first decide whether you would like to focus your stay on church architecture, cross art or a designated route. If you are travelling by bus, the day of your trip should also be part of your plans.

Church and Architectural Feature

Fowlis Wester Parish Church is a 13th-century church dedicated to Saint Bean. It also preserves an original architectural feature known as the “lepers’ squint”. The church’s date places it in context, its dedication identifies its religious connection, and the architectural feature adds a specific detail to its description. For travellers interested in church architecture, the preserved feature offers a distinct point of interest alongside the century in which the church was built.

Cross Art in the Village

When exploring cross art, it is worth distinguishing between the date, the imagery and the local replica. The “Fowlis Wester 2” cross-slab dates from the 8th century. The Cross of Fowlis bears animal reliefs on its cross face. A replica of the Fowlis Wester cross-slab stands on the village green in a small enclosure surrounded by railings. These provide chronological, visual and spatial reference points for different aspects of the local heritage. In terms of date, the cross-slab predates the church by several centuries; the two monuments therefore represent different periods in the local heritage.

Getting Your Bearings, Routes and Travel

Fowlis Wester Village Hall is on the edge of the village, next to the church. The cross-slab replica, by contrast, stands on the village green, making the hall and the replica two distinct landmarks. The hall has ample parking. As availability may change, check the current arrangements if you plan to use this parking for your journey.

Core Path section 49, “Fowlis Wester and Balgowan”, is a designated route. It complements the themes of church and cross art with a focus on walking. When planning your visit, you can choose between heritage and a designated route as different interests. Check current route conditions before setting out, as they can change.

Local bus routes 45 and 46 serve Madderty, Fowlis Wester, Cultoquhey and Crieff on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Check the current timetable against your travel day before planning to use the service for your journey.

Discover more destinations: Grandtully, Blair Atholl, Braco, Kenmore, Auchterarder, Morenish, Blairgowrie and Rattray, Coupar Angus

For the regional travel overview: Perth And Kinross.