The Cologne Chamber Philharmonia Vivaldi, Bach, Paganini et…read moreal Already down at heel, sadly recent economic events have left my birthplace looking more beleaguered than ever. I couldn't help thinking of Michigan A brief jaunt around the centre in search of parking did nothing to disabuse me of that grim notion. The Abbey, along with the imposing Town Hall, are testament to a once prosperous Paisley. Fortunately, the rain had stopped, replaced by warm, evening sunshine, and having parked a short distance from our destination, we had plenty of time to admire this 850 year old hidden gem, before the concert began. Well, I've been before - the last time we were treated to a guided tour by one of the elders, who was kind enough to escort us up the spiral staircase to the top of the tower. It might not look very tall from the ground, but I can assure you: It's a fair hike up those narrow stairs. Well worth the effort, though, as the the view from the top, of Paisley and beyond, is wonderful! Having already spent some time exploring the cloister, admiring the beautiful stained glass and the absolutely incredible ceiling, we were in need of some refreshment. Luckily, there's a wee tea room to the left of the entrance. Now, they don't do 'posh nosh' or flat whites, but you can expect a decent cup of tea or coffee at 1980 prices. And if I'm not mistaken, it's staffed entirely by volunteers. I've heard the organ - the acoustics of the Abbey are amazing - so I was really looking forward to the concert. Despite an almost full house, we were able to snaffle a couple of front row seats We were not disappointed. There were seven musicians in all and they were, without exception, very gifted performers. From the opening of Vivaldi's 'Winter', all the way to the encore of Paganini, Paisley's economic woes were temporarily forgotten. I won't try to explain how exhilarating I found the performance. It is music. Have a look at the links below and listen! http://www.kpk-info.de/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llwfOsv8qfY A simple visit to the Abbey itself is a wonderful treat. The beautiful music helped create a truly memorable evening! Makes me proud to be a Buddy!

I doff my cap to the previous reviewer of this place, cheers Mary, the review was full, just not of…read moregrace!! Aye, so. Having grown up in the sunny climes of Paisley i can attest to the splendour that is Paisley Abbey. Now being of a non religious mind I've always felt a little like an interloper when stepping through these hallow gates, however once inside this is quickly forgotten as the wonder of the architecture and the feel of the place grabs you. A quick wander around the main churchy area and a good old nosey at the quite excellent stain glass windows etc works up just enough of a thirst to justify a trip to the wee tea room located in the "house" part of the grounds.....Its basically a gift shop with a couple of grannies in residence serving guilt free (fair trade) teas coffees and an assortment of biscuits...yum i say. All is priced very reasonably, as are the assortment of second hand books and gifty stuff. To be honest, Paisley as a place ain't got much going for it, sure the Uni is here, but in terms of purpose, all that left with the industries in the late eighties, nineties and noughties (i detest this term and will never use it again!). This however should not put you off a trip to this excellent piece of architecture and cool wee tea room......cheers Mary, i had almost forgot how much i liked being dragged to this place when i was a kid by my old maw when i'd much rather have been in Mc Donalds.....funny how things change!!