Melrose Abbey,

Melrose Abbey is a Gothic-style abbey in Melrose founded in 1136 by Cistercian monks, on the request of King David I of Scotland. Monastic life continued for the next 450 years. The last monk, Dan Jo Watson, died around 1590.

The abbey was built in the form of a St. John's cross.

During its life, the Abbey was richly endowed and a hallowed few were privileged to be buried there including King Alexander II (died 1249) and the heart of Robert Bruce (died 1329), whose body was interred at Dunfermline Abbey.

So famous was Melrose Abbey that that it attracted unwanted attention from the English throughout the later Middle Ages. Attacks by Edward I and Edward II in the early 14th century required major repair. Richard II’s attack in 1385 led to a complete rebuilding of the abbey church. Further depredations in the 1540s caused yet more ruination.

The ruins of Melrose are widely considered among the most beautiful of religious houses in the UK, being especially notable for a wealth of well-preserved figure-sculpture, and its architecture is considered to be some of the finest in Scotland.

Melrose Abbey is known for its many carved decorative details, including likenesses of saints, dragons, gargoyles and plants.

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 45 metres from steward’s entrance point. Visitors with disabilities can be set down closer at the cemetery gates.

Visitors can avoid steps by using the alternative route around the abbey. The church, cloister and museum grounds are suitable for visitors using wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.

Free audio tour guides are available including a version for visitors with learning difficulties.

The Commendator’s house is only accessible with assistance. The paths and grounds are either gravel or grass which can be difficult in wet weather.

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More Information

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