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Dundrennan Abbey

Overview

2024 Update - At the time of writing (30 Jamuary 2023) some areas of Dundrennan Abbey are closed for masonry inspections.

Whilst access restrictions are in place, the admission fee has been reduced to Adult £ 3.80, child £ 2.30, senior £ 3

Dundrennan Abbey was founded in the 12th century by Cistercian Monks and, although a ruin, it is still an attractive building in a rural setting by the village of Dundrennan.

Dundrennan Abbey would once have been an impressive place of worship with a high roof supported by tall pillars and elegant arches. Most of the west side of the building has now collapsed, but the floor plan of the building can be traced and you can envisage the layout of the building.

Interestingly the monks of Dundrennan Abbey were vegetarian. They also had a shorter than average life expectancy due to the hardships of their religious discipline. 

Mary Queen of Scots, whilst fleeing from the Battle of Langside(1568) spent her last ever night in Scotland at Dundrennan Abbey. The next day she sailed to England from a place 2 miles south of Dundrennan that is now called Port Mary.

If you are interested in religious architecture and carvings then Dundrennan Abbey will appeal to you. It is a peaceful site and the building is photogenic, but be aware that large sections of the abbey are missing and you are just visiting a ruin.

Save money on visiting this attraction by buying an Explorer Pass

Address:

Dundrennan, Dumfries and Galloway, DG6 4QH, 01557 500262

Operated by:

Historic Environment Scotland

Opening Hours:

1 April - 30 September: Daily, 9.30 am to 5.30 pm (last entry at 5pm)
October - March: Closed

Admission:

Adult £ 7.50, child £ 4.50, senior £ 6
Whilst some areas of the abbey are closed off for restoration work the admission prices have been reduced as follows:
Adult £ 3.80, child £ 2.30, senior £ 3

Parking:

Yes

Languages:

English information boards

Accessibility:

The grounds and most of the ruins are on accessible flat ground, but there are gravel paths, soft grassed areas and small steps that would hinder wheelchairs.

Toilets:

Yes

Shop:

Yes

Cafe/Restaurant:

No, but there is a picnic table in the grounds

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