Glenluce Abbey, near Stranraer (Dumfriesshire)

A Cistercian Abbey, church, cloister and a museum of monastic life

Summary 13th century buildings (or older) Gift shop Free car parking (on site)

Introduction

Founded around 1192, Glenluce Abbey is a Cisterian retreat situated in a beautiful and peaceful valley. There is also a church, cloister and a museum of monastic life. Open Apr-Sep daily 9.30-5.30.  £3.20 (ch £1.90, concessions £2.70). 

History to the present day

Glenluce Abbey was founded around 1192 by Roland, Lord of Galloway. The white-clad Cistercian monks who settled in this secluded valley of the Water of Luce most probably came from Dundrennan Abbey, near Kirkcudbright. They brought with them not only the austere way of life for which the Cistercians were renowned, but also the sombre splendour of their architecture.Monastic life lasted for 400 years, but because no cartulary – or register – for the abbey survives, its history is sketchy. We catch glimpses of a community going about its spiritual and temporal business much like Cistercian monasteries elsewhere.The Protestant Reformation of 1560 changed all that. The 15 monks in residence at this watershed in Scottish history embraced the reformed religion. In return, they were allowed to live out the remainder of their days in their crumbling cloister. Abbot Thomas and five monks were still there in 1572, but shortly after that the centuries of prayer came to an end.

Food and Drinks

Facilities are available for self service tea and coffee. 

Other 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.

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Glenluce Abbey, Dumfriesshire, , United Kingdom

Address: Glenuce Abbey, Glenuce, Dumfries and Galloway, DG8 0AF.

Directions: Regular trains to Dumfries. From outside railway station take Stagecoach Western bus no 500 (Stranraer) to Glenluce Town Hall (1 hr 20 mins) to Glenluce Abbey.