Dundrennan Abbey, Kirkcudbrightshire, United Kingdom

Dundrennan Abbey near to Kirkcudbright was a Cistercian monastery in the Romanesque architectural style, established in 1142 by Fergus of Galloway, King David I of Scotland (1124–53), and monks from Rievaulx Abbey. Though extensively ruined (the transepts are the main surviving parts), Dundrennan is noted for the purity and restraint of its architecture, reflecting the austere Cistercian ideal. It is also built from very hard-weathering grey sandstone, so the original architectural forms and mouldings are well preserved.

Mary, Queen of Scots, after the Battle of Langside, spent her final night in Scotland here, in 1568. From neighbouring Port Mary, she crossed the Solway Firth to Workington, and shortly after was imprisoned by the English.

n 1587, following the Scottish Reformation, the land passed to the Crown. The site fell into ruin after it was subsequently used to house livestock. Historic Environment Scotland maintains the site today as a scheduled monument.

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User Reviews

Colin Harris (7 months ago)
Visited on a rainy day, Caroline the attendant was very patient with us and told us the history of the Abbey. Was an intriguing explore with every stone telling a story. A few bits were shut but nothing that detracted from the day.

Ian Price (8 months ago)
Really interesting and very well presented. There's a nice, big (free) car park (appreciated by us camper van travellers!) and lots of good explanations of how the abbey was in pre-Reformation days. (No entry fee.)

Katrina Glaister (8 months ago)
Difficult not to give this place 5 stars as, whilst small, it is so full of history and atmosphere! We spent about an hour here, wandering around the ruins and reflecting on Mary Queen of Scots’ last night in Scotland.

Marc Fosh (10 months ago)
Great visit. Warden gave an entertaining introduction to site as well that helped understanding of the site. Recommended for a visit .

Elizabeth Baker (11 months ago)
Came across this site by accident and very glad to have done so. Unlike several Heritage Scotland sites we have tried to visit this week, this one is mostly open with just a couple of minor sections closed off. Staff very friendly and helpful and interesting site with plenty of information boards. The historical highlight is the link to Mary Queen of Scots. There is an entry fee but Heritage Scotland/English Heritage/Cadw members get free entry.

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