Description:

This is perhaps the most complete Cistercian monastery in Scotland and features some of the best Gothic architecture in the country. The abbey was founded in 1142 by Fergus, the first Lord of Galloway, under the patronage of King David I of Scotland.

In 1586 Mary, Queen of Scots, took refuge here following her defeat at Langside. Mary stayed overnight, and in the morning boarded a boat to cross the Solway to England and what she hoped would be shelter offered by her cousin, Elizabeth I.