Glenluce Abbey , Scotland

Glenluce Abbey was a Cistercian monastery founded around 1190 by Rolland, Lord of Galloway and Constable of Scotland. The white robed Cistercian monks brought with them an austere way of life and the sombre splendour of their architecture. Following the Scottish Reformation in 1560, the abbey fell into disuse.

Gilbert, Earl of Cassillis obtained control of Glenluce during the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots. The Earl persuaded one of the monks of the abbey to forge the required signatures to a deed conveying the lands of the abbey to him and his heirs. To ensure that the forgery was not discovered he then employed a man to murder the monk and subsequently persuaded his uncle to hang his paid assassin on a trumped up charge of theft.

Monastic life lasted for 400 years, but because no register for the abbey survives, its history is vague.

Glenluce Abbey came into State care in 1933, and conservation and repair began. During clearance of the site many artefacts were discovered which are now on display in the visitor centre beside the ruined abbey.

Opening Times

1st April - 30th September
Every Day
9:30am - 5:30 pm

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Ticket Prices

Adult £4.00
Child £2.40
Concession £3.20

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Disabled Facilities

Disabled parking is available close to steward’s office and museum.

There is easy access to the museum. Grassed areas in and around the abbey are reasonable except in very wet weather. Two small steps lead to the cloister, which is surrounded by a gravel path. Wheelchair access to the chapter house is not possible.

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More Information

Telephone: 01581 300 541

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