Sweetheart Abbey
The village of New Abbey is dominated by the splendid red-sandstone ruin of the late 13th century and early 14th century Sweetheart Abbey which was founded by Lady Devorgilla of Galloway, in memory of her husband Lord John Balliol.
When her husband died in 1268, Lady Dervorgilla, had his heart embalmed and placed in an ivory casket which she carried everywhere with her. On the her death, she was laid to rest with her husband’s heart and the monks named the abbey in memory of her.
Now under the care of Historic Scotland the romantic abbey is enclosed by an impressive precinct wall – a walk of massive granite boulders, ranking alongside the wall at St Andrews cathedral priory as the most complete in Scotland - and despite Scotland’s turbulent history, it stands remarkably complete, in a beautiful setting nestled between the grey bulk of Criffel Hill and the shimmering waters of the Solway Firth.
Reasonable wheelchair access with the aid of a helper is available to the Laybrothers Range including the nave, transept chapels, presbytery, cloister garth, novices room and the sites of the kitchen and dining hall, although there are one or two steps. Unfortunately, the library, sacristy, chapter house, treasury, parlour and warming house are not accessible to visitors with a physical disability.
Contact
The
Steward
New Abbey
By Dumfries
Dumfries & Galloway
DG2 8BU
Scotland
Tel: +44 (1387) 850397
E-Mail: hs.explorer@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
WWW: http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
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