Dear Fellows,

The Society is pleased to announce our continued support of the Largs Viking Festival through the Buchan Lecture Fund, a grant which offers support to local archaeological, antiquarian, or similar societies to help fund a Buchan Lecture outside of Edinburgh.

Since 1980, Largs Viking Festival has marked the 1263 Battle of Largs, the last mainland battle between the Scots and the Norse. The festival features a living history Viking Village, recreating the experience of 13th-century Viking life, as well as scholastic lectures and exhibitions. The festival began on 29 August and runs until 6 September. 

​This year, Largs Viking Festival’s annual Håkon Håkonsson Lecture will feature Mr Paul Kavanagh, whose talk will explore Norse maritime skill. Mr Cavanagh will take a practical approach to discussions of longship construction and Viking sailing tactics employed in travel to Scotland. The lecture will take place on Friday 4 September at 7pm (UK time). 

Image of the festival’s recently acquired Viking longship from Arran, which will be on display to supplement this lecture. Courtesy of Douglas E Blair, Largs Viking Festival Chair. 

Several places will be reserved for Society Fellows. For further information about this lecture, including how to book, please view the festival’s ticketing site or contact lvf1263@gmail.com.

Many thanks,

Astrid Bridgwood
Fellowship & Administration Officer