Melrose Abbey

Arguably the finest of Scotland's four great Border Abbeys, Melrose Abbey is a magnificent Ruin on a grand scale with lavishly decorated masonry.

The original abbey was founded during David Is reorganisation of the Scottish Church in 1136 for the Cistercian order which, while dedicated to poverty, contrived to create unprecedented wealth.

Burned down by the English army following the Scots 1385 raid south, the abbey was rebuilt in the 15th century. In stark contrast with the original's simplicity, the elegant new edifice featured stunning ornamentation befitting what was one of the wealthiest monasteries in Scotland.

Melrose abbey is thought to be the burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart, marked with a commemorative carved stone plaque within the grounds.

The Commendator's House contains a large collection of objects found during excavation.

Audio guide available.

This property is managed by Historic Scotland.
Opening Times
(2010 times)
1st April to 30th September:
Daily 9.30am - 5.30pm.

1st October to 30th March 2011:
Daily 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Last ticket sold 30 minutes before closing.

Closed 25th & 26th December and 1st & 2nd January.

Admission Charges
(2010 prices)
Adult £5.20; Child £3.10; Concession £4.20.

Directions
In Melrose off the A7 or A68.
Show map of Melrose Abbey...

Melrose Abbey Postcode for SatNav: TD6 9LG

Nearby Attractions
Priorwood Gardens (< 1 Mile)*
Priorwood is a specialist garden where the plants grown are selected for their suitability for drying.
Harmony Garden (< 1 Mile)*
A delightfully tranquil walled garden comprising lawns, herbaceous and mixed borders, vegetable and fruit areas, and a rich display of spring bulbs.
Abbotsford House (1 Mile)*
Abbotsford is the house built and lived in by Sir Walter Scott, the 19th century novelist, and author of timeless classics such as Waverley, Rob Roy, Ivanhoe and The Lady of the Lake.
more nearby attractions...
* Distances shown are in a direct line. Distances by road will be longer.

Nearby Hotels
County Hotel (6 Miles)*
Pleasant and friendly privately-run hotel in town centre.A characterful building with a long history.
Clovenfords Hotel (6 Miles)*
An 18th century coaching inn.3 miles from Galashiels and 34 miles from the capital city of Edinburgh. Situated in the heart of the Scottish Borders.Fishing, golfing and hillwalking close by.
Philipburn Country House Hotel (6 Miles)*
The Philipburn Country House is a luxury 4 star hotel situated in the beautiful Scottish Border town of Selkirk.
more nearby hotels...
* Distances shown are in a direct line. Distances by road will be longer.

Nearby Self Catering
Garden Cottage (5 Miles)*
Maxton is a wonderful area for ramblers (a path through the grounds joins St Cuthberts Way walk), archeologists - the region is full of reminders of the areas turbulent past with ruined Abbeys, Castles, Towers and Forts.
Parkhouse Cottage (5 Miles)*
A really welcoming dwelling in all seasons. Just enjoy the peace of the surrounding countryside, or visit the many castles, country houses, gardens and visitor attractions. As well as extensive walking opportunities
Smailholm Mains Farm Cottages (7 Miles)*
Peace and Tranquillity in the Scottish Borders. Located within the heart of Scottish Borders, just a few miles West of the Picturesque Town of Kelso.
Your property could be here
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more nearby self catering...
* Distances shown are in a direct line. Distances by road will be longer.

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