Dundrennan Abbey
Location: Kirkcudbright, near Dundrennan DG6 4QH
Telephone: 01557 500262
Dundrennan Abbey was founded in 1142 by Fergus, Lord of Galloway, with the help of King David I of Scotland. The white-robed Cistercian monks came from Rievaulx Abbey, in North Yorkshire. After establishing the abbey at Dundrennan, monks went forth to found two more Cistercian abbeys in Galloway – Glenluce, near Stranraer, around 1190, and Sweetheart, in the village of New Abbey, south of Dumfries, in 1273. All three are now in the care of Historic Scotland.
For 400 years, the monks worshipped at Dundrennan. However, we know little about them. The names of abbots and other officials are known from grave-markers, charters and other legal documents. A hint of the abbey’s economy comes from papers dealing with the wool trade. But for the most part we have only its physical remains to tell its history.
Offer for YAC Pass holders:
Free entry with a valid YAC Pass Card when accompanied by a paying adult