At Lindores Abbey Distillery, tradition is more than history; it is a living, breathing part of who we are. Among our most cherished customs is the annual Bear Burning ceremony — a captivating event that connects the past to the present while symbolizing hope, renewal, and the spirit of community.
What is the Bear Burning?
The Bear Burning symbol is the Bear and the Ragged Staff, which represents the Earls of Warwick. Guido, the first Abbot of Lindores Abbey, was a member of the Warwick family. The origin of the legend of the bear goes back to the time of Arthur and the round table. One of his knights was Arthgal whose name in the British language was Arsh meaning bear. The ragged staff is attributed to Morvidus, an earl of the same family who slew a giant with a young tree which he had pulled up by the roots
Why Do We Do It?
For us at Lindores Abbey, the Bear Burning is more than a nod to tradition; it is a way to foster community, celebrate resilience, and honour the land and people who make our whisky possible. Lindores Abbey has always been a place of renewal — from its roots as the birthplace of Scotch whisky in 1494 to its revival as a modern distillery.
Burning the bear represents letting go of past challenges and toasting to new ventures. It is a shared experience that brings people together, reminding us that our strength lies in community and continuity.
A Tradition for All
Whether you are a seasoned whisky connoisseur, a curious visitor, or a member of our local community, the Bear Burning is an invitation to be part of something bigger. It is a chance to gather around the warmth of the fire, share stories, and welcome the future with open hearts.
At Lindores Abbey Distillery, we believe that whisky is about more than just the spirit in the glass; it is about the traditions, stories, and people behind it. The Bear Burning is one of the many ways we celebrate our heritage while looking forward to the future.
It was an honour to attend this year’s ceremony earlier this month. A convivial evening of food and whisky tasting and meeting like minded individuals. Till next year……
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