Jedburgh Abbey, Scotland

Jedburgh Abbey, founded by David I, is one of the four great abbeys built in Scotland’s border country during the Middle Ages. It was established as an Augustinian priory around 1138. The brethren possibly came here from St Quentin Abbey, near Beauvais, France. The priory was raised to abbey status about 16 years later.

Augustinians were priests who lived a secluded and contemplative life, but who went forth from their cloister to minister to the people. Jedburgh eventually possessed about 20 parish churches.

The abbey’s location close to the border with England brought it into the conflict between the two countries that bedevilled the later Middle Ages. During the Wars of Independence in the 14th century, the canons had to evacuate the premises. Further attacks in the 1400s were compounded by major raids in the 16th century. These and the Protestant Reformation of 1560 led to Jedburgh’s demise as a monastic institution.

Despite 900 years and the ravages of war and weather, the abbey remains impressive today. The abbey cloister is now mostly stone foundations but the great abbey church of St Mary the Virgin stands almost entire.

Over the years, Jedburgh has been described by 83 different names or spellings.

Opening Times

1 April - 30 September
Daily: 9.30 am to 5.30 pm
1 October - 31 March
Daily: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm

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Ticket Prices

Adult £5.50
Child £3.30
Concession £4.40

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Disabled Facilities

Parking is available 90 metres away from the abbey, but visitors with disabilities can be set down at the abbey door. Wheelchair users can access the visitor centre but there are steps to the herb garden and cloisters.

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More Information

Telephone: 01835 863 925

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