Tarbat Discovery Centre
The Tarbat Discovery Centre is on the grounds of the ancient church of St. Colman, displaying works of art created in stone by the Picts more than 1,200 years ago.
These treasures, discovered during a 1990s archaeological dig, include fragments of majestic cross-slabs carved skilfully with elaborate geometric patterns, interwoven with magnificent animals and people. The Centre displays Pict and Early Medieval tools, artefacts and moulds used in the 8th century to create religious masterpieces, such as chalices and reliquaries in gold, silver, enamel and glass.
It is a museum, learning and activity centre that preserves and promotes the heritage of the Tarbat peninsula.
Opening Hours
1 March – 31 March 2025
Monday – Saturday, 1 pm – 4 pm
1 April – 31 October 2025
Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm
Sunday, 1 pm – 4 pm
1 November 2025 – 28 February 2026
By appointment only. Please contact us to arrange a visit.
Admission
Under 18 years and students – free
Concessions (65+; disabled visitors) – £5.00
Adult – £6.50
Carer that accompanies a disabled visitor – free
Members of the Tarbat Historic Trust: free
Tarbat Discovery Centre
Tarbatness Road
Portmahomack
Tain
IV20 1YA
We have a car park on site.
Schools and Groups
Schools are welcome to visit at no cost and should fill out the booking form or call 01862 871 351 to arrange the visit
Groups of 8 people or more are welcome to visit but please let us know in advance by filling out the booking form or calling 01862 871 351 to arrange.
The video recording of ‘Uncovering the Origin of the Book of Kells?’ is now available. Tickets: https://buytickets.at/tarbatdiscoverycentre/1615408.
At the end of January the Tarbat Discovery Centre held its first-ever hybrid event in Edinburgh. Dr Victoria Thompson Whitworth shared her work on links between the Picts, Portmahomack, and the Book of Kells – one of Christianity’s most important medieval documents. She was joined by Thomas Keyes, Master Craftsman, who shared his ongoing practical archaeological research. The event ended with a lively discussion between the two experts, and a Q&A session for members of the audience.
Music courtesy of Drone to Home.
Images, drone footage, and videography by
Émilie Atmane
Douglas Gordon
Miles Harrison
Thomas Keyes
Mairi MacPherson
Norman Strachan
And others present at the dig and throughout the Centre’s history
