Photo: Bubobubo2 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Arbroath Abbey is an abbey in Angus, cared for by Historic Environment Scotland. Read about its history and architecture, plus how to visit and what's nearby.
About Arbroath Abbey
Arbroath Abbey stands at the top of the High Street in the Angus town of Arbroath, its red sandstone ruins rising above the rooftops.
King William the Lion founded it in 1178 and it grew into one of Scotland's richest monasteries.
It is best known as the place where the Declaration of Arbroath was sealed in 1320, a letter to the Pope asserting Scottish independence.
Historic Environment Scotland cares for the site today and runs a visitor centre.
Read more on WikipediaHistory of Arbroath Abbey
William the Lion brought Tironensian Benedictine monks from Kelso Abbey to found the house in 1178, dedicating it to the murdered Thomas Becket, whom he had met at the English court. The church was consecrated in 1197 and the king himself was buried before its high altar in 1214. The last abbot, David Beaton, went on to become Archbishop of St Andrews and later a cardinal, before the abbey's decline after the Reformation left it in ruins.
Architecture of Arbroath Abbey
The west front survives with its soaring twin-towered facade, and the round window above it, known locally as the Round O, was once lit at night to guide ships into the harbour.
Worth knowing
The abbey gave its name to the Declaration of Arbroath of 1320, the letter from Scottish nobles to Pope John XXII asserting the kingdom's independence from England, a document still cited in discussions of Scottish national identity.
Facilities
Plan your visit to Arbroath Abbey
Address: DD11 1EG
Nearest station: Arbroath Rail Station (0.3 miles)
Places to visit near Arbroath Abbey
St Vigeans Sculptured Stones Museum
View St Vigeans Sculptured Stones Museum on heritage mapKinnaird Castle
View Kinnaird Castle on heritage mapBarry Mill
View Barry Mill on heritage mapCarlungie Earth House
View Carlungie Earth House on heritage mapHistoric places nearby
Within 5 miles of Arbroath Abbey (DD11) there are 1 historic properties, including 1 museum.
Within 10 miles of Arbroath Abbey (DD11) there are 6 historic properties, including 3 historic houses, across Historic Environment Scotland, Historic Houses and National Trust for Scotland sites.
Within 20 miles of Arbroath Abbey (DD11) there are 32 historic properties, including 9 historic houses, 6 castles and 5 churchs, across Historic Environment Scotland, Historic Houses and National Trust for Scotland sites.
Stay nearby
Make more of your visit with an overnight stay near Arbroath Abbey.
Find places to stay nearby Affiliate link. We may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you.Facts
The ruined abbey where Scottish nobles put their seals to the 1320 Declaration of Arbroath.
- Type
- abbey
- Location
- Angus, Scotland
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