Friends of the Monteath Mausoleum

The Monteath Douglas Mausoleum is a grand Victorian monument, standing alone on the skyline in the Scottish Borders north of the village of Ancrum, just off the A68 at Gersit Law, part of the ancient geological ridge known as Lilliards Edge. The building and surrounding enclosure have recently been restored and are open again to visitors.

This mysterious, largely forgotten monument was constructed for General Sir Thomas Monteath Douglas (1788 - 1868). The entrance is guarded by two life-sized stone lions, one awake and one, curiously, asleep. Inside the crypt two huge sculpted angels stand guard by the tomb. Above them, a star-studded, domed roof  filters pale green light into the dark chamber, which was intended to be “locked for all time".

Outside, there are stunning views of the Scottish Borders with Peniel Heugh and the Cheviots to the south, while to the north the triple peaks  of the Eildon Hills rise above the gentle farmland of the Tweed valley.

Shocked by the neglect of this beautiful building, local volunteers formed a Friends group in 2014 (now international!) and campaigned for full restoration of the building and improvements to public access. By the Spring of 2018 the restoration project was fully funded, and the work completed at the end of June 2019. The building was officially opened on 7th July 2019 at a gathering of Friends and local volunteers.

Walkers and cyclists can visit on any day, or help us by becoming a Friend, give a donation, or lend a helping hand at our Working Parties and Open Days in the summer months. Don’t miss the Gallery with photos of the angels, the lions and the star chamber.

The monument is open to walkers and cyclists every day.

A key is available to see inside the Crypt.

Vehicle access and a guide are provided on Open Days.

See our News page for further details.